Hello D6,

The City Charter review took center stage at City Hall this week.

NATIONAL FOSTER CARE MONTH

It wasn’t long ago that foster children were not on the City’s radar. There wasn’t a path to city support.

That has changed, in a big way. I advocated on Council for funding, and the city has now allocated more than $7 million dollars in support of foster kids who are transitioning out of the system. That’s a huge accomplishment, but there’s always more that can be done.

National Foster Care Month is a time to acknowledge the thousands of children and youth in foster care, the selfless families who open their homes and hearts to them, and the dedicated professionals and volunteers who work to support these vulnerable young people.

Thank you, Courtney Laverty of the Thru Project, Angie White and Emilio Arreola from CASA, and Celeste Garcia and Todd Snyder of BCFS for coming to Council chambers to help us bring awareness to National Foster Care Month!

There are many organizations that support foster kids in our city, every one of them is making a huge difference in foster children’s lives.

TEACHER APPRECIATION MONTH

We all have a teacher or two to thank for inspiring us, motivating us, and giving us confidence. One of mine was Ms. Goodwin at Timberwilde Elementary. 

Today was special at the City Council because we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Month.

There are more than 17,000 teachers in the San Antonio area, that’s enough to fill the Frost Bank Center for a sold-out Spurs game.

Each one of them deserves our deepest gratitude. Teachers carry a responsibility that starts in the classroom and goes beyond the limits of their campus.

Thank you Melina Espritu-Azocar, from the Northside American Federation of Teachers at NISD, Adrian Reyna from the San Antonio Alliance at SAISD, and Leticia Barbosa, from the Edgewood ISD and Texas State Teacher Association Region 2 President, for coming to Council Chambers, representing all teachers in San Antonio, and giving us the opportunity to show our gratitude in person.

American Council of Engineering Companies

Thank you ACEC San Antonio for a great conversation this week about all things transportation in SA!

Transportation is economic development, education, jobs, housing, and health. It’s all about moving our city to a future where families and businesses thrive.

YWLA - GREATER SA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

I’m convinced that San Antonio’s future is in great hands!

Especially after I spent time this week with students from the Young Women's Leadership Academy. I’m impressed with their focus and eagerness to learn.

Thank you to the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce for hosting us, and to Washington Navarro for being such a dedicated mentor.

TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURE

And a reminder for North San Antonio Hills/Alamo Ranch residents:

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:

• Fire Fighters’ and Police Officers’ Civil Service Commission Meeting
• WEEK 2 AABE WORKSHOP: Bidding/Responding on Public Contract Opportunities
• Disability Access Advisory Committee
• Municipal Civil Service Commission Meeting
• Small Business Advisory Commission
• Audit Committee
• San Antonio Early Childhood Education Municipal Development Corporation Board of Directors
• Renter Rights and Responsibilities Information Session | June 11, 2024
• City/County Joint Commission on Elderly Affairs Monthly Meeting
• Planning Commission Meeting
• Public Comment Session
• Updating the Short Term Rental Ordinance - City Council
• Building Standards Board
• Economic and Workforce Development Committee

Construction and Maintenance Notices

June 3^rd – June 10^th    

• Tree top @ Lark Crossing; @ Hawk Trail; @ Roundhill -  weather permitting. 

June 3^rd – June 24^th

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

June 10^th – July 1^st – Phase II 

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

June 13^th – June 13^th        

•  Cantura Crest from Misty Brook to Valley Trails - weather permitting.

​​​​​​​​​​​April 15 to June 15  

• Pipers Creek from Joe Newton St to Culebra Rd ., 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.

​​​​​​​

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.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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

After 7 months of patiently waiting for my furever home, I just know my perfect family is out there! Could it be you?

Hi there, I'm Dames! Let me tell you a bit about myself.

I might be a little shy when we first meet, but don't let that fool you—once I get to know you, I'm the sweetest, most loyal companion you could ask for! I absolutely love belly rubs, treats, and long walks on the trails. There's nothing better than cuddling up on the couch after a fun day out.

I get along well with kids, both older and younger, and I'm even cool with chickens! I'm well-behaved, too—I know how to sit, lie down, and I'm crate trained. I also walk nicely on a leash and come when called.

One of my favorite things to do is give kisses and cuddles. My foster family has loved having me around because I'm always there to offer some puppy love and relieve stress throughout the day.

I've been with my foster mom, Ms. A, for 7 months now. I came to ACS all the way back in November with my two pups, and while they’ve both found homes, I'm still waiting for mine. But I have a feeling that my fur-ever family is just around the corner!

If you're looking for a loving, loyal friend to share your life with, come meet me. Who knows? Maybe we'll spark a connection, and I'll find my new best furiend in you! Email ACSfoster@sanantonio.gov so we can meet! Can't wait to see you!

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