District 9 Councilwoman Votes Against SAWS Rate Increase

Published on October 09, 2026

The Councilwoman calls for accountability.

SAN ANTONIO (October 8, 2026) — District 9 Councilwoman Misty Spears voted against the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) rate increase today, citing concerns about transparency, accountability, and the financial burden on San Antonio families.

“Beginning by expressing deep disappointment with how this entire rate increase has been approached, communicated, and presented to both this Council and the public, I believe this process has been mishandled from the beginning,” Councilwoman Spears said.

The District 9 Councilwoman acknowledged SAWS’ infrastructure needs but said residents should not be expected to shoulder the financial burden of decisions that were delayed for years. Following the recent property tax increase, she raised concerns about asking families to absorb additional water bill increases over the next four years.

“While not opposed to investing in our infrastructure, we can’t ask our residents to commit to years of rate increases without the level of transparency, accountability, and oversight they deserve,” the District 9 Councilwoman said.

The District 9 Councilwoman also called for SAWS to justify rate increases one year at a time, with clear expectations for spending and measurable results before returning to Council for additional increases.

“That is not unreasonable. That is accountability,” the District 9 Councilwoman said.

She also raised concerns about the lack of meaningful public engagement and emphasized that Councilmembers must remain accountable for decisions that directly affect residents.

The District 9 Councilwoman said she remains committed to representing District 9 residents and protecting their hard-earned money.

SAWS needs a sustainable plan for its infrastructure. Our residents deserve a sustainable plan for their household budgets. We have a responsibility to deliver both.”

“For those reasons, I cannot support this proposal as presented, and will be voting no on the SAWS rate increase today,” the Councilwoman said.