CITY OF SAN ANTONIO
GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
MEMORANDUM
TO: Intergovernmental Relations Committee
FROM: Jeff Coyle, Director of Government & Public Affairs
SUBJECT: City and County Legislative Program Coordination
DATE: September 4, 2020
At the September 9th Intergovernmental Relations Committee meeting, the City's Government & Public Affairs (GPA) department and the Bexar County Governmental Affairs office will provide an overview of legislative items that staff has identified for possible coordination and mutual support by the City and County during the upcoming 87th State Legislative Session.
The 87th State Legislative Session will begin in January 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is unclear at this point how lawmakers will conduct their business or how hearings and public input will be managed. In addition, according to projections by the Comptroller, the State is facing an estimated $4.6 billion shortfall for the current two-year budget. Legislators will have to fill that shortfall, prepare a budget for the next two years, and complete the process for redistricting under uncertain and challenging conditions. During this time of uncertainty, it will be critical to have effective communication and partnerships during the next state legislative session.
In preparation of the development of the City and County legislative programs for the 87th legislative session, staff has begun to analyze the topics for consideration by both the City of San Antonio and Bexar County. This analysis and input from the joint Intergovernmental Relations Committee will build upon the coordination accomplished in addressing the COVID-19 crisis and improve the chances of a successful state legislative session for the City and County.
Staff is identifying issues for possible coordinated efforts and discussion by the IGR Committee. The following topics have been identified to date:
Police Reforms/Collective Bargaining Statutes Related to Accountability...
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