District 6 Councilmember Celebrates the Passing of FY 2026 Budget

Published on September 18, 2025

SAN ANTONIO (September 18, 2025) – Today, the San Antonio City Council approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. District 6 Councilmember Ric Galvan shared that the outcome reflects the values and priorities of working families in District 6.

Through the District 6 budget survey and town hall meetings, residents identified services for unhoused neighbors, infrastructure improvements, and affordable housing as their top concerns. The approved budget addresses these priorities in meaningful ways:

Support for Unhoused Neighbors

• Establishes a new Homeless Services and Strategy Department, leveraging resources from the Department of Human Services and led by the Chief Housing Officer.
• Invests $4.8 million to extend low-barrier shelters for another year, with a long-term shelter plan to be developed with nonprofit partners for Council consideration next summer.

Infrastructure

• Creates a Capital Delivery Department using existing Public Works Department staff, dedicated to delivering large-scale projects — streets, drainage, parks, and city facilities — on time and on budget.
• Invests $122.4 million in street maintenance to complete 1,464 projects.
• Provides $17 million for sidewalks, funding 21 new miles and repairs for 11 miles.

Affordable Housing

• Invests $31.4 million from the General Fund and grants to continue implementing the Strategic Housing Implementation Plan (SHIP).
• Of the 28,094 homes targeted by 2031, 13,100 (47%) will be completed, underway, or planned by the end of FY 2026.

Councilmember Galvan stated, “This budget reflects the priorities of working families in District 6. Creating a dedicated Homeless Services Department and extending the low-barrier shelter shows a commitment to treating every neighbor with dignity while planning for long-term solutions. Investments in streets and sidewalks mean safer commutes and stronger neighborhoods for our families. And by funding affordable housing, we are making sure San Antonio families have the security to thrive.”

Councilmember Galvan also noted the need for future planning. “As we approach another deficit in FY 2027, we must pivot toward a forward-looking strategy that allows us to weather economic challenges and overcome legislative barriers imposed by state and federal officials. We need a budget process that rethinks how we grow, spend, and invest — one that prioritizes the long-term health and well-being of our community.”