Councilmembers Request Second Animal Care Services Campus on Eastside

Published on February 20, 2025

Council District 2 Jalen Mckee-Rodriguez   

District 2, 3 and 10 Councilmembers Request City to Explore Second Animal Care Services Campus on San Antonio’s Eastside


SAN ANTONIO (February 20, 2025) — District 2 Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, in partnership with District 3 Councilmember Phyllis Viagran and District 10 Councilmember Marc Whyte, filed a Council Consideration Request (CCR) to explore the creation of a second full-service Animal Care Services (ACS) campus. Currently, the only ACS facility is on the far west side of the city, which makes it challenging for residents on the south, east, and north sides of town to access. 

ACS officers face mounting challenges, and a significant one is travel time to and from the campus. A second campus could allow for quicker response times, more adoptions, more shelter capacity for stray and roaming animals, more opportunities for spay and neuter procedures, and expand operational activities. 

The CCR directs the consideration of funding from the Inner City TIRZ for feasibility studies, land acquisition and initial design, then for consideration in the 2027 Bond Program for full funding of building and operations. 

This CCR will go to the Governance Committee for consideration in the spring.

Councilmember McKee-Rodriguez said, “Our residents in the eastern sector of San Antonio have been beleaguered with neglected, stray, roaming, and sometimes dangerous animal issues for far too long. A second ACS facility in East San Antonio is a common sense investment to improve the visibility and response time of our ACS officers. This action demonstrates both our dedication to humane animal care and public safety for our residents.” 

District 3 Councilmember Phyllis Viagran stated, “Investing in a second Animal Care Services campus is not just a necessity; it is a commitment to our community and its animals. By enhancing accessibility and response capabilities, we can ensure that every resident can engage with and support our local animal welfare efforts. This initiative will foster a culture of compassion and responsibility towards our furry friends, ultimately enriching the lives of both animals and residents alike.” 

District 10 Councilmember Marc Whyte shared, “I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this initiative. Having a facility closer to District 10 to help house the loose animals on our streets will be a win for our residents.”