ERIK WALSH

Just five-and-a-half years after voters put caps on the San Antonio city manager’s salary and tenure, the mayor’s Charter Review Commission thinks it’s time for a complete turnabout.

San Antonio city manager Erik Walsh discussed the huge responsibility and critical need to keep up with infrastructure and service demands over the next 10-15 years Sunday morning on Leading SA.

With new faces at the helm of both the city and fire union, both sides are optimistic that they'll be able to bargain this time instead of battling over a new contract.

Spriester Sessions: Hood covers a range of topics, from his ousting to the death of SAFD firefighter Scott Deem

The San Antonio International Airport has received $30 million in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration.

San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh appointed an interim fire chief Thursday, a little over a week after former Chief Charles Hood retired following an investigation into inappropriate and offensive comments.

San Antonio City Councilmember Marc Whyte was suspended from his committee assignments on Thursday, the same day the San Antonio Police Department released video of his recent DWI arrest.

The City of San Antonio says the migrant facility it has been operating at the airport for roughly seven months is neither a shelter nor a secret. But the city still hasn’t been able to point out when it mentioned it publicly.

City Manager Erik Walsh said city council members were informed the city would use a vacant building at the airport to hold migrants "no more than 24 hours" before their scheduled flights.

San Antonio City Council approved the largest on-site municipal solar project in Texas on Thursday.

The City of San Antonio will add 50 more police officers to its department over the next three years thanks to a multimillion-dollar federal grant.

The San Antonio International Airport is breaking ground on a new Ground Load Facility that will add capacity and ground gates, allowing for the increase of domestic and international flights.

An announcement regarding the San Antonio International Airport that officials are calling “mega” and “historic” will be made Thursday.

Expanding a popular mental health team, creating a fund to help cover travel to out-of-state abortion clinics, and giving more money for Animal Care Services were among the most high-profile changes council members discussed making to the budget - largely favorably.

The emails and texts obtained through an open records request indicate officials with the city and the Spurs organization have had a handful of conversations and meetings over the past few months prior to the Spurs winning the NBA Draft Lottery and selecting Victor Wembanyama.

With about a month until the San Antonio City Council is slated to pass a final version of next year’s budget, council members and residents alike are beginning to sift through the record $3.7 billion proposed version.

City Manager Erik Walsh joined Leading SA to discuss the city's expected $3.7 billion budget and how the public can be involved with the allocation process.

The City of San Antonio plans to ramp up its use of a controversial strategy in handling its homelessness problem.

The City of San Antonio is expected to grow its budget to a whopping $3.7 billion this year as it pumps up its Animal Care Service budget, makes the biggest increase to its police department this side of the millennium, and funds hundreds more homeless camp cleanups.

The City of San Antonio is inviting residents to participate in a series of town hall meetings in August.

San Antonio’s City Council successfully doubled the city’s homestead tax exemption to 20%, the maximum allowed by state law.

The San Antonio City Council appears ready to throw Animal Care Services a bone.

The proposed program and dog enforcement efforts stem directly from a West Side home whose dogs were responsible for the brutal Feb. 24 attack that killed an elderly man and sent several others to the hospital.

City staff say the city's Solid Waste Fund is "structurally unbalanced" and will likely warrant a rate increase in the 2024 fiscal year. It's not clear yet how much that could be.

A one-two punch of COVID-19 and construction could be the fall of several small businesses. San Antonio is now providing financial aid in the form of the COVID-Construction Recovery Grant Program.

Bravo walked the popular strip on Wednesday with City Manager Erik Walsh, the project manager from SpawGlass and City of San Antonio Public Works inspectors, according to a release from Bravo’s office.

In just a few weeks the San Antonio City Council will vote on the proposed $3.4 billion proposed budget.

Help is on the way for thousands of San Antonio households that need a home internet connection but can’t afford it.

Rebates for CPS Energy customers, a property tax rate cut, and pay bumps for city employees are all part of the proposed $3.4 billion city budget the San Antonio City Council will discuss Thursday morning.

The San Antonio City Council approved a new contract for San Antonio Police officers Thursday in a 8-3 vote, immediately putting the new contract into effect.

With COVID-19 cases back down to a low point, Metro Health laid its plans on Monday for growing health initiatives through September 2026 in six different areas.

Hyatt wants to sell off its 1,003 room hotel through a $450M deal that could free the city from covering any of the hotel's future debt payments.

Opponents of the planned removal of more than 100 trees at Brackenridge Park said they were relieved to learn the city’s Historic Design and Review Commission will not be taking a final vote Friday.

Although wintry precipitation is forecast to have come to a halt in the San Antonio area, freezing temperatures are still expected to create hazardous road conditions overnight into early Friday morning.

The city’s chief equity officer submitted her resignation earlier this year while being investigated for a hostile work environment complaint, records obtained by the KSAT 12 Defenders show.

San Antonio city's council on Thursday agreed to spend $30 million helping residents with their utility bills.

After a stretch of above-average rainfall and with the arrival of cooler temperatures, SAWS President/CEO Robert R. Puente and San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh have declared an end to Stage 1 water rules effective Tuesday.

The city plans to hold eight town hall meetings to discuss the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

Across 13,394 employees, the city of San Antonio paid a total of of $842 million in wages and $1.2 billion in total compensation to fire, police and civilian workers in 2020.

City of San Antonio leaders are preparing a $1.2 billion, five-year bond program to send to voters next spring.

The proposed San Antonio budget for 2022 is a record $3.1 billion. It is expected to be adopted Sep. 16 and people around San Antonio should be able to see changes.

San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh said there were 39 available EMS units on Thursday, and all were in use for 26 minutes amid a surge of 911 calls for COVID-19 and other emergencies.

From developing a coordinated system for addressing homelessness to updating city-owned facilities, San Antonio City Council members had numerous ideas Wednesday for how to use the hundreds of millions of dollars the city will receive through the American Rescue Plan Act.

City Manager Erik Walsh also talked about COVID-19 vaccinations and returning to pre-pandemic normalcy.

The City of San Antonio and the San Antonio Water System have lifted Stages 1 and 2 water restrictions effective Thursday.

The city of San Antonio has announced that beginning Monday, masks and social distancing will be optional for fully vaccinated staff and clients at city facilities.

Claude A. Jacob was selected after a national search, city officials announced on Friday.

During the FY 2021 budget process, when some residents were loudly calling for changes to the San Antonio Police Department and its budget, City Manger Erik Walsh pushed for a review of the city’s policing model and to what kind of calls residents want officers responding. While that review process, which is underway, could lead to changes, Walsh says they would not lead to a reduction in officers, and it “is not a plan to defund the police.”

Several City of San Antonio facilities will reopen Monday, San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh announced.

The City of San Antonio will open cooling centers on Thursday and Friday to provide relief from high temperatures expected be near 100 degrees.

The City of San Antonio wants to hear what expectations residents have of the San Antonio Police Department.

A contractor hired by the federal government to provide services for the migrant teens being housed at the Freeman Coliseum was not prepared for their arrival, according to City Manager Erik Walsh.

SAN ANTONIO – A decision by San Antonio Police Department Police Chief William McManus not to authorize the release of police body camera video of the fatal shooting of a man by police is getting mixed reaction. The shooting was recorded on an officer’s body cam. AdIn a letter to San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh, McManus said Mejia’s mother indicated that to release the video “would cause her great distress.”Mayor Ron Nirenberg said Monday that he understood McManus’ decision. One could go to the family and say, ‘We want to respect you, but we also want to be transparent for the community. Would you be OK if we were able to blur this or we were able to show it in a different way?’”AdRelated Stories:

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said that the department will not release body camera footage of a fatal shooting outside South Park Mall that occurred in January. Therefore, the body worn camera video will not be released,” McManus said in a statement. Erick Mejia, 26, was shot multiple times by four San Antonio officers outside of the mall on Jan. 27. After Mejia stopped under the I-35 overpass, he fled on foot and ran into South Park Mall before security kicked him out, police said. Police said he tried to re-enter the mall through a pair of secured doors but he was unable to get in.

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said that the department will not release body camera footage of a fatal shooting outside South Park Mall that occurred in January. Therefore, the body worn camera video will not be released,” McManus said in a statement. Erick Mejia, 26, was shot multiple times by four San Antonio officers outside of the mall on Jan. 27. After Mejia stopped under the I-35 overpass, he fled on foot and ran into South Park Mall before security kicked him out, police said. Police said he tried to re-enter the mall through a pair of secured doors but he was unable to get in.

SAN ANTONIO – The City of San Antonio will continue to enforce face masks in city-owned buildings and the River Walk, as well as by city contractors, until further notice. “To ensure that face mask guidelines are followed we will have signage in all City facilities and our mask policy will be strictly enforced.”RELATED: Texas’ statewide mask mandate expires March 10. Officials say masks will be required on the city-owned River Walk if people cannot maintain social distance. AdThe city will develop a scaled reopening of facilities over the next several weeks. The next in-person city council “A Session” meeting will be on April 8, and the “B session” meetings will continue to be held online until further notice.

SAN ANTONIO – The city of San Antonio and San Antonio Water System will close their bottled and bulk water distribution sites at 5 p.m. on Thursday. According to a news release, the decision to close the sites was made due to lower demand for bottled and bulk water after service was restored to all of San Antonio. The city will continue to provide bottled water delivery to vulnerable residents, including homebound seniors and apartment complexes with no drinking water, through Saturday. “Thanks to their efforts, we were able to distribute more than 500,000 cases of water and provide bulk water to our community.”AdSAWS is accepting applications from customers who need assistance making plumbing repairs to quickly restore service and minimize water loss. They can also get help filing an application by calling 210 233-FIXX (3499) or by emailing to CPR-SA@saws.org.

The City of San Antonio on Wednesday will launch an Emergency Resource Call Center (ERCC) and website to assist residents affected by the recent severe winter weather. AdIf a business or rental property suffered damage, SBA’s Disaster Loan Assistance Program may help by providing a low-interest loan. If an individual does not qualify for FEMA assistance, the Community Pipe Repair Fund managed by SAWS can help. Callers that do not qualify for FEMA assistance will be directed to the SAWS CPR Fund. ERCC staff will be able to assist residents in both English and Spanish.

(AP Photo/Eric Gay)SAN ANTONIO – Multiple warming centers have been made available across the San Antonio area to help residents who have lost power and remain stuck in the cold and dark. San Antonio city officials said the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center will remain open through Friday as a warming center. Southside ISD opened up a 24-hour warming center at Losoya Middle School Gym, at 1610 Martinez Losoya Road. The City of New Braunfels will also provide a warming center at the New Braunfels Civic and Convention Center at 375 South Castell Ave. To find the closest warming shelter, please use the map here or for information on additional assistance and resources call 2-1-1.

SAN ANTONIO – The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center will remain open Wednesday as a warming center for San Antonio residents, city officials said. Anyone needing transportation help in getting to the convention center can call 311. The convention center will take up to 500 people although capacity may increase if needed, Walsh said. Several hundred cots and food will be available at the convention center, Walsh said. Residents are urged to take their own clothing and medicine and whatever other necessary items they may need.

SAN ANTONIO – (You can learn more about what was said at the news conference by clicking here.) The City of San Antonio will provide an update on its winter weather response and the establishment of a warming center. Mayor Ron Nirenberg, City Manager Erik Walsh and Deputy City Manager María Villagómez will be among the participants at the news conference.

SAN ANTONIO – The city of San Antonio and its partner agencies are prepared to provide access to shelter and services for the homeless over the next several days as an arctic air mass moves into South Texas and sets the stage for some frigid nights and possible icy weather. “The City’s Department of Human Services and its partner agencies in homeless services assist individuals facing homelessness by providing outreach, developing a relationship, and offering services daily,” San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh said. Individualized services, which include cold-weather sleeping accommodations and cold-weather kits (sleeping bags, hand warmers, snacks and hygiene products) are available after hours and weekends. The Salvation Army Dave Coy Men’s Shelter at 226 Nolan St. also provides overnight shelter for the homeless. The items are available for street outreach workers and those in need at the San Fernando Homeless Resource Hub at 319 W. Travis St.

District 1 Councilman Roberto Treviño, right, speaks to a resident about the encampment outside his field office. SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio District 1 Councilman Roberto Treviño spent Thursday night at his field office, prepared to stop an abatement of homeless people who have camped on the property. “We’re trying to help people.”City crews, however, never showed up on Friday to sweep the field office, located on Vance Jackson Road near the Westfall Library. We will continue to monitor the situation.”The council member and city manager disagreed on their assessments of the encampment. The councilman said he hopes to coordinate better with the city manager’s office to reach a resolution on the issue.

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio leaders are weighing options to help alleviate the city’s homeless problem, including the purchase of transitional housing space. The discussions come a day after city crews dismantled a homeless camp downtown under I-37, displacing dozens of people who lived there. During Thursday’s city council meeting, City Manager Erik Walsh discussed one possibility to provide temporary housing for those without a home. “We are also looking into the possibility of purchasing a hotel or hotel space for transitional housing,” Walsh said. Walsh also noted that the city has an active lease with a downtown Holiday Inn that runs until September.

SAN ANTONIO – City of San Antonio officials have determined that telephone town halls, district meetings and a survey will be the tools used to gather residents’ input about possible changes at the San Antonio Police Department. The survey will be conducted in February followed by various meetings in City Council districts in March through May. Some committee members, including District 6 Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda, said they want to stretch out the community input process longer. The input is being gathered following local and national protests against police violence last year. The protests led City Manager Erik Walsh to announce a plan to examine SAPD’s role in the types of calls officers respond to.

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio District 5 Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales is calling on the city to address the termination of the Alazan Apache Courts redevelopment project on the West Side. In a memo to City Manager Erik Walsh, Gonzales said San Antonio Housing Authority interim CEO Ed Hinojosa had reached an agreement to terminate the two-phase project. She said this made the tenants ineligible for leasing redeveloped units under Housing and Urban Development rules. “SAHA is committed to the redevelopment in a method that will not displace our residents and maintain our commitment to maintain and grow public housing to serve the most vulnerable residents of San Antonio. “There are also increasing possibilities under the new Biden administration for new federal funding to increase public housing.

SAN ANTONIO – Changes to police officer discipline will be the City of San Antonio’s focus when it meets with the San Antonio Police Officers Association next month to begin negotiations over the next police union contract. City staff laid out the city’s priorities for the upcoming collective bargaining process during Wednesday’s city council meeting. The city now seeks that all past misconduct is considered in the discipline process. Most of the department’s budget -- about $387 million -- is determined by the current union contract. The evergreen clause in effect would allow the current contract to remain in place for up to eight years if negotiations are unsuccessful.

SAN ANTONIO – A weeks-long investigation has determined that San Antonio Fire Department Chief Charles Hood violated SAFD rules and regulations when he was photographed eating sushi off of a nude women during a private party earlier this year, records released Tuesday confirm. Records show Deputy City Manager Maria Villagomez was not forwarded a copy of the complaint from Hood’s command staff for well over a month. SAFD Chief Charles Hood poses for a photo while eating sushi off a nude woman's body during a private party in January 2020. The photo was first published by the San Antonio Express-News. Serving sushi on a naked woman, otherwise known as “body sushi” or “naked sushi,” is part of the Japanese practice of nyotaimori, according to a report from The Associated Press.

SAN ANTONIO – With the Cenotaph relocation apparently off the table, San Antonio City Council members discussed options forward for the $400 million Alamo Plan. With the monument’s relocation a “crucial” part of the overall plan, city staff members say plans or timelines need to be changed. “We’re going to have to redo redesign because that Cenotaph is not moving,” City Manager Erik Walsh told council members. In its entirety, the Alamo Plan includes repairs to original structures, a redesign of the plaza and a museum. Following the nearly two-hour public discussion, council members spent close to another hour in a closed executive session but took no official action.

SAN ANTONIO – With Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations nearing, the city of San Antonio is reminding residents about the actions they can take to help slow the spread of COVID-19 this holiday season. “As we enter the holiday season and the eighth month of this pandemic, we know everyone is experiencing COVID-19 fatigue. The campaign will feature print advertising, out of home placements, radio, television, digital and social media messages. “It’s my hope that my song inspires the public to do their part to slow the spread of this virus. To learn more about the city’s response to COVID-19, or the campaign, visit the city’s website here.

It shows Chief Hood at the private party, not in uniform, holding sushi while kneeling next to the model. SAFD Chief Charles Hood poses for a photo while eating sushi off a nude woman's body during a private party in January 2020. The incident happened while Chief Hood was attending a firefighter’s birthday party in January, he said. San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg said during Friday’s coronavirus briefing that he is in support of Walsh’s directive for the city attorney to conduct the review involving the photograph. “The scene in that photo is counter to the standards and values that we expect from the city of San Antonio organization.

SAN ANTONIO – Stage 1 watering rules will come to an end on Tuesday for San Antonio Water System customers. According to a news release, recent rains and cooler weather has sent the 10-day average for the Edwards Aquifer above the trigger of 660 feet. As a result, SAWS advised San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh to end the watering rules that have been in place since July 10, which he agreed to do so in consultation with SAWS President/CEO Robert R. Puente, per city ordinance. While the city is returning to year-round watering rules, recent rains and seasonal drop in temperatures reduce the need for outdoor watering according to SAWS officials who urge residents to leave in place once-a-week watering. SAWS customers can still take advantage of SAWS WaterSaver coupons and rebates.

SAN ANTONIO – Parks, senior centers and convention facilities will be reopening as the City of San Antonio announced Monday that its COVID-19 virus indicators show the lowest risk level (safe) of transmission. Indoor facilities, including community and adult/senior centers, clubhouses, the San Antonio Natatorium (indoor pool) and gyms will remain closed for now. Municipal Court: Effective Oct. 19, the court will partially reopen, with modified in-person services for a limited number of appearances and hearings. San Antonio Public Libraries: Curbside services continue with managed access and limited hours (40 hours/week) at nine locations for internet usage. Residents with questions about city services are encouraged to call 311 or visit the city’s website at sanantonio.gov.

SAN ANTONIO – On the eve of the city council’s vote on the FY 2021 budget, proposed amendments to the $2.9 billion document would make small adjustments to areas like housing, health, and small businesses programs. City staff presented $4 million worth of proposed amendments to the city’s operating budget and $2.4 million worth of additional capital spending on Wednesday, following dozens of council member requests. City staff proposed these $4 million worth of amendments to the city budget. City staff are recommending $2.4 million in additional capital funding in the FY 2021 budget. (City of San Antonio)The city council is scheduled to vote on the FY 2021 budget on Thursday, Sep. 17.

“The newly established Escalated Mental Health Crisis Protocol’s objective provides officers with a way to help an individual who is need of mental health assistance. The city said in its news release that McManus had suspended the use of no-knock warrants for search and arrest warrants in June. The new mental health protocol will be used for mental health crisis calls that involve violent acts or the presence of weapons, the city said. If an Escalated Mental Health Crisis Call exists, then the SAPD Mental Health Unit Supervisor will dispatch the SAPD Mental Health team to respond to the location. Bexar County commissioners also announced a new program Thursday to create a new mental health response unit on the county level.

SAN ANTONIO Despite an expected $127 million revenue shortfall in the next fiscal year, city staff say they will present a balanced budget to city council members on Thursday. City staff also provided a summary of the proposed budgets highlights, though not the full document. Instead of needing to cut $109 million in spending over two years, city staff now expect they need to cut $87 million. The proposed budget calls for cutting $38 million in FY 2021 and the other $49 million in FY 2022. NEXT STEPSThe city council will have a series of budget work sessions beginning Aug. 11 and lasting until mid-September.

SAN ANTONIO Mayor Ron Nirenberg and City Council will meet on Thursday morning to discuss a proposed $2.9 billion budget. The meeting is slated to begin at 9 a.m. via videoconference, but delays are possible. City staff said they will present a balanced budget despite an expected $127 million revenue shortfall in the next fiscal year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Proposed $2.9B FY21 city budget includes cuts but no layoffs amid $127 million drop in revenueThe proposed budget is $7.7 million less than what council passed for the FY 2020 but includes numerous cuts. Community services like libraries, youth programs and senior services should not see major changes with the proposed budget.

City of San Antonio staff presented a $2.9 billion budget proposal to city council members on Thursday. I cant help but feel as though this proposed budget is a slap in the face, Celeste Brown told council members during the public comment portion of the meeting. I am strongly urging city council to push back. The majority voiced opposition to a budget increase for police, urging instead for city leaders to divert the money to areas like health care, housing, and education. Walsh told reporters he wanted to provide council members with "a deliberate approach that benefits everyone."

SAN ANTONIO – Five days before San Antonio Metro Health Director Dawn Emerick resigned from her post, an internal email revealed a conflict between Emerick and Assistant City Manager Dr. Colleen Bridger. Emerick had surprised city officials when she submitted her resignation, which was accepted on June 25 by City Manager Erik Walsh. City protocol is that employees include their supervisors in communications with the City Manager,” Bridger wrote, according to Emerick’s email. Dr. Bridger has implemented significant and overdue improvements in her three weeks since taking over as director of Metro Health. READ MORE: Metro Health Director wants person of color to replace her, per resignation letter

SAN ANTONIO On Saturday, officials reported 1,108 more COVID-19 cases and 11 additional deaths in Bexar County and San Antonio. According to city officials, 419 staffed hospital beds are available, or 11%, and 372 ventilators, or 48%. The city of San Antonio is mourning the loss of two of its own on Saturday due to complications with COVID-19. Today, its with sadness that I share that we are grieving the loss of two of our own City of San Antonio teammates. Theres a 99% chance someone is COVID-19 positive, study saysCity of San Antonio mourns loss of Alamodome security guard, SAFD mechanic due to COVID-19

SAN ANTONIO – Editor’s note: This story was published through a partnership between the San Antonio Business Journal and KSAT. Thousands of municipal employees will continue to work from home at least through Dec. 31 due to the surge in Covid-19 cases in Bexar County, city of San Antonio officials said. City Manager Erik Walsh shared that plan with the mayor and City Council members in late May, and most of the indicators affecting a return to work are trending in the wrong direction. Extending a work-from-home plan for thousands of employees could sway some businesses, whose leaders are looking for guidance regarding when to bring employees back to the workplace. Read more at the San Antonio Business Journal.

A Christopher Columbus statue at the center of debate has been removed a week after it was vandalized. Between 3-4:30 a.m. last Thursday, the statue at Columbus Park, located at 500 Columbus St., was splashed with red paint. Protest of Christopher Columbus statue at downtown park draws dozensThe request to permanently remove the statue will go before City Council in August. City Council will vote on whether to give it back to the Christopher Columbus Italian Society, which owns the statue. San Antonio City Council to vote on Christopher Columbus statue removal requestIn the meantime, City Manager Erik Walsh called for it to be removed for repair.

SAN ANTONIO A request to remove the statue of Christopher Columbus from the park named after him will go before the San Antonio City Council in August. In addition to removing the statue, District 1 City Councilman Roberto Trevio wants to change the name of Columbus Park. Protest of Christopher Columbus statue at downtown park draws dozensThe statue removal item was on the Governance Committee agenda Tuesday, but after some discussion, council members voted to move the item to the full council, which will next meet in August. In the meantime, City Manager Erik Walsh is calling for the statue to be repaired after it was vandalized last week. Trevino saId he wants his colleagues on the council to work quickly to return the statue to the Italian Society, which owns it.

SAN ANTONIO San Antonio city officials on Monday sent a cease and desist letter to James Alfaro, owner of Alamo Sign Solutions, asking him to stop seeking volunteers for a volunteer civilian patrol. According to a news release, the flyer purports to seek up to 200 volunteers for the San Antonio Police Department, which is unnecessary and unauthorized by San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh and San Antonio Police Chief McManus. How each San Antonio City Council member says they would change police collective bargaining agreementDuring a time when our residents are speaking up for changes in policing, flyers like these only seek to stoke controversy, Walsh said. This poster has no affiliation whatsoever with the City of San Antonio nor the men and women who wear the San Antonio Police uniform. We once again ask that he remove any reference to SAPD from his materials, McManus said.

SAN ANTONIO – The woman charged with overseeing the city’s health strategy, Metro Health Director Dr. San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg praised Metro Health, saying their vital work will continue. Before she was assistant city manager, Bridger oversaw Metro Health since March 2017. San Antonio Assistant City Manager Dr. Colleen Bridger to resignWalsh issued a statement on the resignation Friday morning:“Last night, I received a letter of resignation from Metro Health Director Dr. Dr. Bridger and I will work with my team to develop a plan going forward.”

SAN ANTONIO Here is some good news regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The city announced Thursday that three major credit rating agencies reaffirmed the general obligation bond ratings, and each of them gave the city an improved outlook. The city said this is a vote of confidence after the economic impact that COVID-19 put on residents of San Antonio. Strong credit ratings were maintained throughout the pandemic, but the stable outlook that was rewarded to the city was an improvement, according to city officials. These strong ratings from all three agencies in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrate the strong fiscal stewardship implemented by City Council, City Manager Erik Walsh and his leadership team, said Mayor Ron Nirenberg.

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood received a huge honor on Tuesday morning. The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association named Hood as Fire Chief of the Year during a ceremony at Public Safety Headquarters. “I’m happy to share this award with the City of San Antonio,” he said during the ceremony. Mayor Ron Nirenberg, City Manager Erik Walsh, Deputy City Manager María Villagómez and SAFD command staff attended the ceremony. Metro members belong to the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the National Fire Protection Association.

San Antonio Chief William McManus says that going forward, the order for San Antonio Police officers to use crowd dispersal weapons will come only from him. The announcement came during a city council meeting Wednesday, during which District 4 Councilmwoman Rebecca Viagran questioned McManus about the departments use of wooden pellets and rubber bullets during protests over police brutality following the death of George Floyd. McManus said munitions were used to disperse crowds downtown on May 30 and Jun. Mayor Ron Nirenberg, who raised concern over the use of the weapons after journalists were hit on Jun. 2, called it a welcome change.

SAN ANTONIO Visit San Antonio has made a last-minute push to host the Republican National Convention in the Alamo City, but it appears the event is headed east to Florida. According to several reports, Jacksonville is reportedly the top pick to host the RNC. On Saturday, Visit San Antonio President and CEO Cassandra Matej sent a letter (see document below) to City Manager Erik Walsh, saying local business leaders had approached Visit SA about the Alamo City hosting the convention. Matej sent KSAT the following statement:Visit San Antonio was not approached by the RNC about making a bid for the conference. Charlotte, North Carolina, was originally going to host the RNC.

SAN ANTONIO The eighth day of protests on Saturday in San Antonio in honor of George Floyd included repeated calls from demonstrators to take funding away from the citys police department. The protest took place in the mid-afternoon heat as city officials announced they would lift a curfew for the downtown business district. RELATED: San Antonio lifts curfew for downtown business district following peaceful protestsDozens of downtown businesses have been vandalized the past week as protests devolved into rioting last Saturday and Tuesday nights. City officials, however, said they made the decision to lift the curfew after several consecutive days of peaceful protests. RELATED: WATCH: Day 8 of George Floyd protests in San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO Protesters gathered Sunday for the ninth day of protests in San Antonio over racial inequality and the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. On Saturday, Mayor Ron Nirenberg signed a declaration that rescinded the temporary curfew put in place for the downtown business district. RELATED: San Antonio lifts curfew for downtown business district following peaceful protestsCity Manager Erik Walsh and the San Antonio Police Department recommended the curfew be lifted following several days of peaceful protests in the Alamo City. Protesters on Saturday also called for city leaders to defund the San Antonio Police Department. And thats a message worth hearing in this city hall, in city halls across the country, Nirenberg said.

SAN ANTONIO – The temporary curfew in place for the downtown business district has been lifted, according to City of San Antonio officials. City Manager Erik Walsh and the San Antonio Police Department recommended the curfew be lifted following several days of peaceful protests in the Alamo City. Mayor Ron Nirenberg signed a declaration that rescinded the curfew Saturday afternoon, officials said. RELATED: San Antonio mayor issues temporary curfew for downtown business district, Alamo Plaza through Sunday “The event organizers met with me on several occasions in the past week. RELATED: San Antonio police seeking help to find 5 people who allegedly rioted near downtown

SAN ANTONIO Protesters gathered at Public Safety Headquarters and at the Bexar County Courthouse on Friday for the seventh day of protests in San Antonio over racial inequality and the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. RELATED: San Antonio lifts curfew for downtown business district following peaceful protestsCity Manager Erik Walsh and the San Antonio Police Department recommended the curfew be lifted following several days of peaceful protests in the Alamo City. Nirenberg told protesters to hold him accountable for changes that need to be made in San Antonio. Im asking you to hold me accountable nobody else," Nirenberg told the crowd. WATCH: San Antonio councilman delivers message to protestersRelated Stories:WATCH: Day 7 of George Floyd protests in San AntonioPeople are protesting in small Texas towns, tooFormer players accuse Texas State basketball coach Danny Kaspar of racist remarks and incidentsMayor Ron Nirenberg delivers impassioned speech to protesters

The slaying of Houston-native George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers on May 25 has sparked nationwide protests, including several protests in San Antonio over the weekend. San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh said more than 5,000 people were protesting peacefully downtown on Saturday. While the majority of San Antonio protesters were peacefully demonstrating, a small number of agitators" turned violent, according to the mayor. San Antonio is, in many ways, a birthplace for American civil rights, we have a long tradition of peaceful protests," he said. A curfew was issued for San Antonio overnight on Saturday and Sunday after the damage at Rivercenter Mall.

SAN ANTONIO San Antonios leaders, such as the mayor, the police chief and City Manager Erik Walsh held a press conference late Saturday to address the aftermath of the downtown protests. Just hours later, San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh joined GMSA Sunday morning on KSATs Leading S.A segment where he further discussed the damages from the overnight mayhem. And if they are, at the officers discretion, can utilize that curfew to either arrest or move folks along, Walsh said. RELATED:At least six arrested as protests turn to destruction in downtown San AntonioSan Antonians, city crews clean up downtown destruction caused by bad actorsGov. Abbott declares State of Disaster for all Texas counties after protestsPeaceful protest over George Floyds death erupts into violence in downtown San AntonioThe protest... is over.

SAN ANTONIO Since the coronavirus pandemic swept across the nation, the U.S. Labor Department estimates approximately 41 million Americans have filed for unemployment benefits. In Sundays Leading S.A., San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh addressed how the Alamo City is feeling the economic impact. Weve had probably over 100,000 San Antonio residents who claimed unemployment and our unemployment rate locally is about 12.5%. The San Antonio Fire Department has completed testing every nursing home, resident and employee over the last two weeks, which was really important for us to do locally. With restrictions loosening seemingly by the week, that cooperation between the San Antonio government and the governor is key.

SAN ANTONIO The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) is resuming partial services June 16 in accordance with the phased reopening plan announced by City Manager Erik Walsh. The reopening includes contact-free pickup services at all SAPL locations and limited public computer use at nine locations. Tuesday: 12 p.m. 7 p.m.Wednesday Saturday: 10 a.m. 5 p.m.Brook Hollow Branch Library - (530 Heimer Rd., 78232)Central Library - (600 Soledad St., 78205)Cody Branch Library - (11441 Vance Jackson Rd., 78230)Encino Branch Library - (2515 East Evans Rd., 78259)Forest Hills Branch Library - (5245 Ingram Rd., 78228)Great Northwest Branch Library - (9050 Wellwood, 78250)Guerra Branch Library - (7978 Military Dr. W., 78227)Igo Branch Library - (13330 Kyle Seale Pkwy., 78249)Landa Branch Library - (233 Bushnell Ave., 78212)Las Palmas Branch Library - (515 Castroville Rd., 78237)Maverick Branch Library - (8700 Mystic Pk., 78254)McCreless Branch Library - (1023 Ada St., 78223)Memorial Branch Library (3222 Culebra Rd., 78228)Parman Branch Library - (20735 Wilderness Oak, 78258)Potranco Branch Library - (8765 State Hwy. 151, #102, 78245)Pruitt Branch Library - (5110 Walzem Rd., 78218)San Pedro Branch Library - (1315 San Pedro Ave., 78212)Semmes Branch Library - (15060 Judson Rd., 78247)Thousand Oaks Branch Library - (4618 Thousand Oaks Dr., 78233)Tobin Branch Library - (4134 Harry Wurzbach Rd., 78209)Tuesday: 12 p.m. 2 p.m.Wednesday Saturday: 10 a.m. 12 p.m.Bazan Branch Library - (2200 W. Commerce St., 78210)Carver Branch Library - (3350 E. Commerce St., 78220)Collins Garden Branch Library - (200 North Pk. Blvd., 78204)Cortez Branch Library - (2803 Hunter Blvd., 78224)Johnston Branch Library - (6307 Sun Valley, 78227)Mission Branch Library - (3134 Roosevelt Ave., 78214)Pan American Branch Library - (1122 W. Pyron Ave., 78221)Schaefer Branch Library - (6322 US Highway 87 East, 78222)Westfall Branch Library - (6111 Rosedale Ct., 78201)Public computers availability (one-hour appointment call each location to make an appointment):Tuesday: 3 p.m. 7 p.m.Wednesday Saturday: 1 p.m. 5 p.m.

SAN ANTONIO – City Council voted to extend a San Antonio’s emergency declaration ordering bars and restaurant dining rooms to close amid the coronavirus pandemic. Closures will be extended for 30 days until April 19, City Council voted Thursday. Restaurants and stores that violate the emergency order could pay civil penalties and fines, Nirenberg said Wednesday. Assistant City Manager Colleen Bridger told City Council that 13 potential cases are under investigation. Read more about Bridger’s presentation here:COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the new virus, stands for coronavirus disease 2019.

They are also co-owners of Dailey and Wells Communications, which San Angelo LIVE! identified as the company referred to in a federal indictment for the former San Angelo police chief, Timothy Ray Vasquez, 49. identified “Vendor 1” as Dailey and Wells Communications, based off of its previous reporting on the contracts and the dates they were awarded. The company was tapped to install a radio system and provide maintenance and support for 15 years. “The only thing illegal about (the Wells') contributions to date is the $1,000 in over-limit contributions they contributed to former councilman Greg Brockhouse’s mayoral campaign,” Morgan said.