City Council Special Session - 2026-05-07
Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
San Antonio City Council received a briefing on SAWS' proposed four-year rate adjustment (2026-2029) to fund $3.2 billion in critical infrastructure projects. The average residential bill would increase $4.47 (7.9%) in 2026, with total increases of approximately $19/month by 2029. No vote was taken; council will vote June 11, 2026. Key concerns included aging wastewater treatment plants dating to 1965-1987, water loss reduction efforts, and protecting low-income residents through expanded Uplift assistance eligibility from 125% to 150% of federal poverty level.
Key Decisions (1)
SAWS Rate Adjustment Briefing - No Action Taken
First of three council sessions on SAWS' proposed four-year rate plan (2026-2029) to fund $3.2 billion capital improvement program. Average residential bill increase of $4.47/month (7.9%) in 2026, rising to approximately $19/month total increase by 2029. 70% of customers use below average and would see reduced rate impact. Uplift assistance customers would see no increase. SAWS Board will vote May 19, city staff recommendation May 20, council vote scheduled June 11, 2026.
Market Signals (4)
Infrastructure
SAWS has 7,000+ miles of water pipe infrastructure (3rd highest in US after NYC and LA), with some dating to 1905, requiring $3.2 billion in capital improvements over five years to address aging wastewater treatment plants and reduce water loss.
Housing Demand
San Antonio identified as one of the fastest-growing cities in America, driving need for expanded water supply capacity including local Carrizo Aquifer expansion to 14,000 acre feet.
Infrastructure
Southern sector residents still on septic tanks in parts of Districts 3 and 5, with demand for water lateral connections as development expands southward.
Sentiment
Council members expressed concern about cumulative financial burden on residents from potential property tax increases, CPS rate increases, SAWS rate increases, and telecom taxes occurring simultaneously.