Discussions surrounding a significant change to San Antonio’s electoral process will unfold at the City Council meeting on Thursday, September 28, 2023. The council, led by Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones, will deliberate whether to move elections for the mayor and city council members from May to November in odd-numbered years. This proposal has generated considerable interest, both inside and outside City Hall, as residents consider its implications for future governance.
The potential shift in election dates stems from a recent change in state law aimed at enabling the City of Dallas to adjust its election schedule. San Antonio, along with other cities, can also utilize this law without needing to amend its city charter, but must decide by December 31, 2023. Mayor Jones has expressed her support for the move and believes it could enhance voter participation.
In conjunction with the council meeting, Jones has arranged a news conference at 8 a.m. on the City Hall steps, where she will discuss the election calendar change alongside civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers labor union. This press event aims to highlight the importance of voter engagement and the historical context of the proposed changes.
City staff have estimated that shifting the election date could result in significant cost savings for the city, ranging from $800,000 to $1 million. These savings could allow for a reallocation of resources towards community programs and services, fostering a more engaged electorate.
As anticipation builds for the City Council meeting, residents are encouraged to stay informed. KSAT plans to livestream both the council meeting and the earlier news conference, providing an opportunity for the public to engage with the discussions directly. Should there be any delays or technical issues, updates will be provided to ensure transparency.
The decision made by the San Antonio City Council could set a precedent for other cities contemplating similar changes, reflecting a broader trend in municipal governance aimed at increasing voter turnout and reducing election costs. The outcome of this meeting will have lasting implications for the political landscape in San Antonio, making it a focal point of interest for both local residents and political observers alike.
