Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Juan public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
18 issues with medium priority
Urban County Program FY 2027 funding needs
A public hearing was set for residents to weigh in on what the city needs under the federal Urban County Program for fiscal 2027 — typically community development and housing money.
Community Event Sponsorships
The EDC put money behind PSJA football at several levels: $5,000 for season advertising spots, $250 for the Bears camp, and a first-time $500 full-page ad in the Mayor's football program, which funds youth scholarships.
Liberty Middle School perfect attendance incentive program
The school's attendance committee says small incentives help motivate students to show up to class, boosting enrollment and engagement. The board boosted its sponsorship from $300 last year to $500 this year.
Yaqui Animal Rescue sponsorship and community animal services
Yaqui Animal Rescue provides low-cost and free vaccines, spay/neuter services, and flea/tick medication for Valley pets. The EDC's $1,500 sponsorship supports a weekend vaccine clinic serving about 175 animals — a public health issue as well as an animal welfare one.
Community sponsorships for civic organizations
The EDC put $2,500 into Vanguard Academy's first annual gala, which funds merit scholarships for graduates — including many San Juan students — heading to college and careers.
Small business grant program
Three local businesses got grant help: San Juan Cafe for signage, Tania's Flower Arrangement for a fridge and sign, and Fedorosa Science LLC for equipment. The program helps established local shops invest and stay visible.
National Night Out community policing event
The Police Department's biggest community event of the year gives out 1,000 backpacks with school supplies and builds relationships between law enforcement and families. The EDC's $2,500 helps fund it on August 6 at the municipal park.
Commercial Development and Rezoning on Conway Road and Veterans Boulevard
The council evaluated commercial alcohol sales for a new 7-Eleven and rezoned light industrial property to single-family housing along Conway Road.
Texas Gas Service GRIP Rate Increase Suspension
The city suspended a planned rate hike by Texas Gas Service to give officials time to review the proposed increases under state guidelines.
Solid Waste Code and Utility Fee Updates
The city updated solid waste ordinances to clarify commercial roll-off container deposits and pickup rates, while reaffirming that residential recycling is free.
DG South Veterans Subdivision Variances for Dollar General
The city approved a preliminary plat and variances for a new Dollar General store on Veterans Boulevard, allowing temporary septic usage because city sewer lines aren't installed yet.
Municipal Court Amnesty and Case Resolution Programs
The city established an amnesty program running through April 30 and partnered with a collection agency for a March warrant resolution campaign to help residents clear pending court matters and save money.
LiftFund Partnership and Entrepreneurial Financing
The board explored a partnership with LiftFund to offer interest buy-downs, helping small business owners who lack access to traditional bank loans secure affordable financing.
Downtown Revitalization Plan
The city and EDC are working on plans to boost investment and activity in the downtown core.
Commercial Rate Structure Under Review
The consultant and several council members flagged that commercial and industrial customers are likely underpaying relative to the cost they impose on the system. Rebalancing those rates could shave 2-4 percentage points off residential increases.
Historic Preservation
The iconic San Juan Hotel is on the verge of being lost, forcing the city to finally decide if it values its history or prefers new development. It’s a classic tug-of-war between keeping our local character and making room for modern growth.
Public Health Partnership
San Juan is partnering with DHR to make mental health resources easier to find and use. It’s a proactive step to ensure residents can actually get the support they need without the usual runaround.
Municipal Fleet Procurement
San Juan is finally upgrading its aging city fleet, which means fewer broken-down trucks and more consistent trash pickup and road repairs for your street. It’s a long-overdue move to make sure city services actually show up when they’re supposed to.