City Council A Session - 2026-04-09
Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
San Antonio City Council held a Fiesta-focused session on April 9, 2026, featuring six proclamations for Fiesta San Antonio events (April 16-26, 2026). The most consequential vote approved a $5 gate fee for Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square during peak hours, amending the agreement with Rayfeo Consejo Educational Foundation. The fee passed despite opposition from Market Square tenants and community members concerned about restricting access to the historically free public space.
Key Decisions (2)
$5 Gate Fee for Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square
Approved ordinance amending agreement with Rayfeo Consejo Educational Foundation to establish $5 gate fee during peak event hours (after 6pm weekdays, after 1pm weekends) for ages 13 and over. Children 12 and under remain free. Fee intended to offset approximately $140,000 in enhanced security costs including perimeter fencing and screening. City to receive 25% of revenue above $250,000, estimated at $37,500. Event runs April 17-26, 2026.
Consent Agenda Items 4-20 (excluding Item 17)
Approved consent agenda including: lease agreement with San Antonio Tennis Association for McFarland Tennis Center; temporary street closures for Fiesta; $12.5 million FAA grant acceptance for airport terminal development; appointments to Building and Standard Board; David G. Evans Memorial Highway designation on Loop 1604.
Development Activity (2)
San Antonio International Airport New Terminal
$12.5 million FAA grant accepted for terminal development program, bringing total federal funding to $91.5 million with additional applications pending. Terminal opening anticipated Q2 2028.
South Alamo Street Reconstruction
Full opening of South Alamo Street following construction completion. Celebration scheduled for Wednesday afternoon before NIOSA.
Market Signals (4)
Commercial Demand
Market Square tenants expressed concerns about potential negative impact on foot traffic and sales from new $5 Fiesta entry fee, with 54 tenants at Farmer's Market Plaza and over 100 local businesses in the Market Square area.
Infrastructure
City spending approximately $730,000 on public safety for Market Square Fiesta events in FY26, up from $690,000 in FY25, indicating rising security costs for major public events.
Sentiment
Fiesta San Antonio generates over $400 million in economic impact and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, with international travel writers being invited for first time to expand awareness beyond local market.
Infrastructure
San Antonio International Airport has secured $91.5 million in federal funding for terminal development, positioning the city for continued aviation growth and connectivity improvements.