District 9 Councilwoman: Keep Facts Straight, Budget Comes First

Published on August 07, 2026

SAN ANTONIO (August 7, 2026) — Following today's District 3 press conference, Councilwoman Misty Spears is urging City leaders to keep the City's budget shortfall, the Sports & Entertainment District, and Ready to Work as three separate conversations.

“Our budget shortfall, the Sports & Entertainment District, and Ready to Work are three different issues,” Spears said. “When we lump them together, we confuse taxpayers instead of solving problems. Sports & Entertainment and Ready to Work funding should not be used to close the City's budget deficit.”

Spears said the City's focus must remain on its core responsibilities.

“The budget comes first,” Spears said. “We don't solve a budget shortfall by spending more – we solve it by spending smarter. Before asking taxpayers for another dollar, we need to review every department, every program, and every line item. We owe taxpayers responsible government.

“I appreciate the Mayor's willingness to make the tough choices ahead. It's time to work together, cut waste, protect core services, and grow our economy. San Antonio's future depends on solutions, not division.”

Spears said the City needs a two-part strategy: spend smarter today and grow smarter tomorrow.

“Today's challenge is balancing the budget through accountability,” Spears said. “Tomorrow's challenge is making sure we're never back in this position. That means investing in economic development, growing our business community, attracting new investment, and expanding our tax base so City Hall isn't forced to revisit the same financial problems year after year.”