The San Antonio City Council has unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, which District 5 Councilmember Teri Castillo has hailed as a substantial victory for working families. Despite facing potential budget cuts, the council worked collaboratively to ensure vital services remain funded. Significant investments include enhancements in infrastructure, specifically targeting street, sidewalk, and drainage maintenance, along with park upgrades, such as new restrooms at Monterrey Park. The budget also establishes an additional illegal dumping team and increases Animal Care Services staffing to address critical calls and support new spay/neuter clinics. City civilian workers are set to receive a 3 percent wage increase, while firefighters will benefit from a 7 percent raise due to successful negotiations.

In a push for affordable housing, the budget allocates over $35 million to meet rehabilitation goals outlined in the Strategic Housing Implementation Plan. Castillo expressed gratitude to the City’s negotiation team and emphasized the importance of investing in community services to foster safe and healthy neighborhoods. The approved budget reflects a commitment to the residents of District 5 and aims to bolster overall community well-being.