In her first State of the City Address, San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones reflected on her first ten months in office, highlighting both early accomplishments and the significant financial challenges facing the community. She emphasized that the pace of change from legislation to technology requires a rethinking of how the city operates and makes decisions, underscoring that the state of the city is the choice between status quo, business as usual, or something better.
Mayor Ortiz Jones pointed to actions already taken to strengthen civic participation and community resilience, including moving municipal elections to November to increase voter turnout and save resources, and establishing a Mayor’s commission on voting to expand awareness and access to voting. She highlighted rapid community response efforts during a SNAP benefits disruption, where $1.6 million was raised in 96 hours to support 10,000 residents, and described proactive planning to prepare for potential federal funding cuts. She also emphasized San Antonio’s role as Military City USA and the growing connection between economic and national security, announcing the creation of an economic security advisory group, alongside efforts to invest in people through early learning, child care, and expanded affordable housing.
Looking ahead, the Mayor outlined a focus on accountability, transparency, and prioritizing resources during a challenging budget season. She highlighted steps to improve governance, including clearer guidelines for economic development agreements, stronger oversight, and ending programs that are not delivering results, while also working to prohibit housing discrimination against veterans using vouchers. As the city prepares for a tighter budget and reduced bond capacity, she emphasized prioritizing core needs while minimizing impacts on the most vulnerable.
Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here
At a time when our rights, freedoms, and futures are under threat, Democratic Mayors are showing the nation what real leadership looks like.
