San Antonio Standard

SAN ANTONIO – The City of San Antonio continues to grow, and with that growth, the needs and expectations of our citizens has also increased. District 9 has worked closely with the City Manager’s office to ensure we use available funds in a way that reflects the vision and needs our constituents have. The $3.7 billion budget increases funding for core city services, such as public safety, homelessness, infrastructure, and community engagement.

• The FY 2024 adopted budget includes some of my top priorities for both the district and the city:
• Increased funding for police, with over 100 new positions added and funding for ballistic glass on police cruisers
• Decreased City tax rates and increased Homestead Exemption
• Support for Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Antonio
• Support for ChildSafe, provider of services to abused and neglected children
• The largest increase in funding for Animal Care services in City history at 33%
• Continued investment in City of San Antonio employees, which has made the City one of the highest ranked employers in Texas
• Investment in transportation - streets, sidewalks, and traffic safety

“I would like to thank the hundreds of District 9 residents who submitted surveys attended budget meetings, and reached out to my office,” Councilman Courage said, “Their input was critical in informing what I fought for in this budget. The health and safety of residents remains my top priority, and I’m proud the Council voted to include 117 new police officers and expanding the hours of SA CORE. We also secured funding for the installation of newborn safety devices at fire stations.”

“Since joining Council in 2017, I have consistently fought to reduce property taxes and this year championed the Homestead Exemption to the maximum allowed by state law,” Councilman Courage added. “This budget increases the Homestead Exemption to 20% and lowers the City’s tax rate. Critical City needs are addressed, such as homeless encampments, affordable housing, infrastructure needs, expansion of Animal Care Services, and a new Quality Assurance Unit in 311. The City continues to focus on meeting the needs and improving the lives of residents.”

Original source can be found here.