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Transparency in San Antonio Governance

Purpose: To promote accountability and foster public trust in local government by ensuring that all citizens have access to information regarding city operations, decision-making processes, and public resources.

Scope: This policy applies to all departments, officials, and employees of the City of San Antonio.

1. Commitment to Transparency

The City of San Antonio should be committed to the openness in government operations. My policy aims to provide clear guidelines on information accessibility, ensuring that citizens can make informed decisions and participate actively in local governance.

2. Information Accessibility

  • Public Records: All public records shall be made available in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act. The city will provide easy access to these records through a dedicated online portal and physical locations. There will no longer be restricted records regarding public interests. If there is an issue that pertains to the public i.e. taxes, property, etc. it will be made known and available to the public.
  • Meeting Notices: All city council meetings, committee meetings, and public hearings will be announced at least 72 hours in advance, and at a designated time to allow the public to attend and voice concerns or feedback of issues, with agendas posted online.
  • Meeting Minutes: Official minutes of all city council meetings will be made available to the public within five business days of the meeting.

3. Engagement and Participation

  • Public Comment: Each city council meeting will include a designated and reasonable time for public comments, allowing residents maximum participation to voice concerns and suggestions.
  • Workshops and Forums: The city will hold regular workshops and forums to discuss upcoming projects, budgetary concerns, and policy changes, encouraging citizen input.

4. Information Dissemination

  • City Website: The city’s official website will serve as the primary platform for information dissemination, including access to budgets, project updates, council decisions, and public notices.
  • Social Media: The city will utilize social media channels to share information and engage with the community, providing updates on city activities and events.

5. Training and Compliance

  • Employee Training: City officials and employees will receive training on transparency practices, emphasizing the importance of public access to information.
  • Monitoring Compliance: The city manager or designated compliance officer will regularly review adherence to this policy and address any issues or violations.

6. Feedback Mechanism

  • Public Surveys: The city will periodically conduct surveys to assess public satisfaction with transparency measures and identify areas for improvement.
  • Complaint Process: Residents can submit complaints regarding transparency issues through a dedicated online form, which will be reviewed and addressed in a timely manner.

7. Review and Amendments

  • This policy will be reviewed annually and may be amended as necessary to improve transparency practices and adapt to changing legal requirements or community needs.
  • This policy aims to create and actually adhere to a culture of transparency and accountability within the city government, ensuring that all residents feel informed and engaged in the democratic process.