Friends and Neighbors –
I hope 2026 is treating you well! The new year is off to a busy start, and we’re hitting the ground running on the issues that matter most. Our focus remains on addressing challenges head-on and delivering results.
In recent weeks, I’ve shared updates with local media on flood control investments, public safety and law enforcement, and concerns about wasteful spending. I encourage you to read on and visit our In the News section to learn more.
Additionally, we are looking forward to celebrating the 250th birthday of America later this year! Bexar County has established a website to showcase our role in the American Revolution and highlight various events that will be taking place. We’ve included more information about those efforts below.
As always, we strive to be the gold standard in constituent services. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office if you have a concern or issue in your neighborhood. And save the date for our annual Easter Egg Hunt event happening on March 29!
Fixing the Jail: Time to Act
After years of state inspection failures, mounting costs, and study after study outlining solutions, it’s clear: Bexar County has a problem at its jail—and Commissioners Court is responsible for fixing it.
The challenges are complicated and require a holistic analysis of our criminal justice system. Overcrowding, a backlog of cases, a lack of mental health beds, and limited on-site medical facilities are all putting strain on the system. Today, our jail continues to operate at or above capacity, forcing taxpayers to fund costly contracts with other counties to house inmates elsewhere.
We’ve studied this issue extensively. What we haven’t done is act.
I’ve long said I’m solution-agnostic—but inaction is not an option. Based on feedback from stakeholders and the realities we face, I believe a medical annex at the jail is a practical step forward.
A medical annex would expand on-site treatment, add mental health capacity, and reduce overcrowding—all while helping us bring inmates back from out-of-county facilities and lowering long-term costs. It’s a solution that addresses multiple challenges at once and can be phased in to reduce the immediate burden on taxpayers.
This won’t solve everything. But we cannot let perfect be the enemy of the good. The time to act is now. I will continue pushing for action and will keep you updated.
Flood Control Investments
Last year, we approved $21 million in the County budget to fund a Next Generation Flood Warning System—one of the most important investments we can make to protect human life. Now, we’re staying actively engaged to ensure those dollars are spent wisely by evaluating proven technologies and meeting with vendors like River Sentry, who have demonstrated systems capable of detecting rising floodwaters and triggering early alerts. This ongoing work is about accountability, smart use of taxpayer dollars, and making sure we deliver a system that helps prevent loss of life when severe weather strikes.
Learn more about River Sentry and our efforts by reading the following story from News 4 San Antonio: Flood sirens installed at Hill Country camps being considered by Bexar County.
VR Systems Update
Earlier this week, Commissioners Court approved a more than $2 million, three-year contract with VR Systems for election software. I voted no—for the second time—because I believe we still lack the level of detail and justification taxpayers deserve before making an investment of this size.
Over the past six months, I’ve consistently asked a simple question: what exactly are Bexar County voters getting in return for $2 million? While the system offers additional features—such as enhanced mail ballot tracking and processing—it does not replace the state’s existing system, which we are still required to use. In other words, this is an added layer of software, not a core requirement for running our elections.
Importantly, Bexar County has already demonstrated that we can conduct safe, secure, and successful elections without this system. If that’s the case, we must be clear about why this new investment is necessary and what measurable improvements it will deliver to voters.
I also have concerns about the structure of the contract. A three-year commitment limits flexibility, especially when implementation is expected to take four to five months and will not be ready until the November election. We’ve seen before how long-term IT contracts can restrict our ability to adapt or pursue better options if circumstances change.
This ultimately comes down to basic stewardship of taxpayer dollars. When we write a $2 million check, we should be able to clearly articulate the return on investment—what problem we are solving, what trade-offs we are making, and how this benefits the public. I remain open to being persuaded. But until we have clearer answers and stronger justification, I cannot support moving forward with this level of spending.
Legal Services for Immigrants and Subsequent Lawsuit
In December, I voted NO for the third time on authorizing the approval and execution of an amendment to an agreement for immigration legal services with American Gateways. Not only is this an egregious waste of taxpayer dollars, but during the discussion at Commissioners Court, it was confirmed that there are zero limitations on who is eligible to receive these services—including whether violent or repeat offenders could access the funding—which is completely unacceptable.
I warned my colleagues at the time that Harris County is already being sued by the State for using taxpayer funds to provide legal representation to individuals unlawfully present in the United States who are facing federal deportation proceedings, and that there was a strong likelihood we would face similar legal challenges. As expected, earlier this month we learned that the Attorney General’s Office filed a similar suit against Bexar County.
The vast majority of San Antonians do not want their tax dollars spent defending violent or repeat offenders from deportation. It is a terrible policy and political malpractice. Now, not only are we wasting taxpayer money on this bad policy, but also on legal fees to defend it. Read more on the lawsuit in the news section below.
Israel Trip Update
Last fall, we led Bexar County on its first trade mission to Israel, focused on expanding economic development opportunities and positioning San Antonio as a global innovation leader. Since our last update on the Israel Trade Mission, we have continued working closely with our local and state partners, including Greater SATX, Bexar County Economic Development, Geekdom, the Port, the State of Texas, the Texas Stock Exchange, as well as several Israeli companies and government officials. Our partners have been actively highlighting the resources and opportunities available in Bexar County, and we are encouraged by the strong interest expressed by our Israeli counterparts. Conversations are ongoing about a potential future visit to Bexar County as part of a larger Texas tour by a delegation of Israeli businesses.
Bringing meaningful investment to our community takes time, and we are being thoughtful and intentional every step of the way to build strong, long-term partnerships that benefit Bexar County.
With Greater SATX President & CEO Sarah Carabias Rush.
Supporting Law Enforcement at San Antonio City Council
Last month, I spoke before the San Antonio City Council and expressed my unequivocal support for law enforcement officers, regardless of which uniform they wear. I’ve served as a Bexar County Commissioner for three years, and from day one I’ve been clear: public safety is priority number one. That position should not be controversial, yet this idea was met with boos and jeers.
I was genuinely shocked by the level of disorder and lack of respect in City Hall. Because of that environment, many voices—especially those with more conservative viewpoints—were effectively silenced and never heard. I heard from several citizens who had signed up to speak but ultimately did not feel safe enough to do so. That is completely unacceptable. Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones has emphasized the importance of “transparent dialogue” and giving residents the opportunity to share their perspectives. But if that is the goal, it is her responsibility to ensure City Hall is a place where all residents feel safe, welcomed, and able to participate. In this case, that did not happen.
In today’s environment, we must recognize that undermining law enforcement ultimately undermines public safety and puts everyone at risk. As elected officials, we must also understand that our words have consequences, and we must never put politics above public safety.
I will always stand with the brave men and women who put on a badge and serve our community. There must be zero tolerance for threats and harm toward law enforcement. We are stronger—and safer—when we respect the rule of law and treat one another with decency.
Easter Egg Hunt 2026
Save the date for our Easter Egg Hunt event on Sunday, March 29 at the Rock at La Cantera from 12 PM – 3 PM!
In addition to the egg hunt, there will be face painting, bounce castles, and activities for all age groups. Stay tuned for more information coming soon!
Recent Events
Western Heritage Parade
Nothing says it’s Rodeo season quite like the Western Heritage Parade & Cattle Drive.
My family and I were honored to take part in the event this year as we officially kicked off the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo.
From the cattle drive and mounted infantry groups to the authentic wagons and heritage organizations, this parade is a powerful reminder of the history, traditions, and culture that make up our city and the great State of Texas!
Bexar250 Kick Off
I was honored to take part in the Bexar America250 kickoff celebration as we mark the upcoming 250th birthday of the United States! This event was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the courage of our Founding Fathers and honor every generation since that has sacrificed to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.
Additionally, in honor of our Semiquincentennial, Bexar County has created a website showcasing our role in the American Revolution as part of the Spanish Empire. I encourage you to visit the website and learn more about the exhibits and events that will be taking place this year.
To learn more, go to: https://www.bexar.org/4046/Bexar-America250.
Heroes in Arms Anniversary Celebration
It was inspiring to attend the celebration of the 8th anniversary of the South Texas Blood & Tissue Heroes in Arms program—a remarkable initiative that ensures life-saving blood is available on ambulances so first responders are ready to act in the most critical moments.
Hearing the real-life stories of donors and of those whose lives have been touched by this program was incredibly powerful. Every time you donate blood, you have the opportunity to be a hero, too.
ABC South Texas Annual Luncheon
It was great to be with Associated Builders & Contractors – South Texas Chapter at their Annual Membership Luncheon and Board Installation in January. I was proud to help swear in new board members and share a few thoughts on the state of Bexar County. This is an energized group of leaders who care deeply about our community, and I’m confident they’re ready to serve and make a real impact in 2026 and beyond.