District 7 Councilmember Introduces Utility and Fiber Projects Account

Published on May 21, 2025

SAN ANTONIO (May 21, 2025) — Today, Councilmember Marina Alderete Gavito submitted a Council Consideration Request (CCR) to introduce a Utility and Fiber Projects Accountability Plan aimed at improving transparency and coordination between the City of San Antonio, utility providers including CPS Energy and SAWS, and fiber companies operating within city limits.

“Our neighbors deserve to know when and why work is being done on their streets, and when service interruptions may occur,” said Councilmember Alderete Gavito. “This proposal is about partnership – ensuring that our city functions efficiently and effectively, and that our residents stay informed. We’re not reinventing the wheel – simply calling for a system that ensures all stakeholders are aligned before a project begins. This is about good governance. Our city needs fewer surprises and quicker, clearer communication to better serve our residents.”

The Utility and Fiber Projects Accountability Plan calls for a collaborative approach between the City of San Antonio, CPS Energy, SAWS, and all fiber providers to develop a more consistent and coordinated communication system. The main objectives of the policy proposal include:

• Resident Notifications
  Implement public outreach through robocalls, social media, and printed flyers to inform residents of upcoming construction activity.

• Information Standards
  Require that communication from utility and fiber companies include, at a minimum:
  1. A dedicated contact phone number
  2. The projected timeline for the project or outage
  3. Details on work hours and any approved variances for activity outside normal hours
  4. Potential impacts to residents, such as traffic delays, parking restrictions, or service interruptions

• Real-Time Communication with Council Offices
  Establish a formal requirement for ongoing communication between utility providers, fiber companies, and City Council offices to ensure timely dissemination of project and outage information to residents.

• Accountability Measures
  Develop and implement mechanisms to hold utility and fiber providers accountable for inadequate communication with residents, the City, or City Council offices.

• Coordination Agreements
  Create a formal agreement between the City of San Antonio, CPS Energy, SAWS, and fiber companies to coordinate infrastructure work whenever feasible to minimize disruption.