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North San Antonio Edition VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1 OCT. 21NOV. 18, 2025

2025 Voter Guide

Bexar County tourist tax looks to fund rodeo expansion, Spurs arena INSIDE 10

Also in this issue

Impacts

Page 4

Check out Urban Bird Hot Chicken’s new location

A portion of the venue tax will fund Proposition A. Proposition A would fund San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo renovations to make the east side stadium grounds the rodeo’s permanent venue. (Courtesy San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo)

Events

Page 18

Mark your calendar with fall festivals and events

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

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NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

Impacts

• Opened Sept. 4 • 22106 Hwy. 281, Ste. 102, San Antonio • www.urbanbirdhotchicken.com 5 Tia’s Taco Hut The restaurant serves Tex-Mex food. • Opened Sept. 16 • 3643 Evans Road, Ste. 101, San Antonio • www.tiastacohuttx.com

Stone Oak 7

ENCINO COMMONS BLVD.

1 5

CAMP BULLIS

281

6 IHOP-Applebee’s The dual-branded restaurant features popular foods

281

from each brand. • Opened Sept. 30 • 9911 I-10, San Antonio • https://restaurants.applebees.com

1604

Assisted Living Locators The business provides families guidance on in-home care. • Opened Aug. 6 • Serving North San Antonio and surrounding areas • www.assistedlivinglocators.com/care-advisor/san- antonio-north

VANCE JACKSON RD.

Hollywood Park

Shavano Park

1604

WEST AVE.

The Pumpkin Parlor Patrons can order pumpkins and Halloween do-it-

yourself projects. • Opened Sept. 1

Z B

• Serving San Antonio area • www.pumpkinparlor.com

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Coming soon

• 7330 N. Loop 1604 W., San Antonio • www.heb.com/heb-store/tx/san-antonio/college-park

Now open

7 CoPlay Cove This business will offer in-house daycare services and workstations for parents. • Opening early 2026 • 2230 TPC Parkway, San Antonio • www.coplaycove.com 8 Bentley The car manufacturer is building a showroom. • Opening TBD

1 Bracken Hill Dental Care The business offers teeth cleanings and checkups. • Opened in July

3 Family Care Center This center provides an array of therapy services. • Opened Aug. 19 • 19106 N. Hwy 281, Ste. 101, San Antonio • www.fccwellbeing.com 4 Urban Bird Hot Chicken The Houston-based restaurant serves Nashville Hot Chicken sandwiches.

• 3647 E. Evans Road, San Antonio • www.brackenhilldentalcare.com

2 H-E-B The grocer opened a new 111,000-square-foot location. • Opened Aug. 6

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANDREW CREELMAN & PARKS KUGLE

• 27605 I-10, Boerne • www.bentleysanantonio.com

• www.sahealth.com

Worth the trip

Harbor Health This Austin-based primary care clinic acquired 10 locations. • Expanded Sept. 18 • Locations across Northern San Antonio • www.harborhealth.com

9 Northside Islamic Center of San Antonio The masjid, or mosque, will have classrooms and prayer rooms. • Opening TBD • 21026 Encino Commons Blvd., San Antonio • www.nicsatx.org

Worth the trip

Relocations

Gunter Hotel A $57 million renovation project added 20,000 square feet of meeting and restaurant space. • Reopened Sept. 22 • 205 East Houston St., San Antonio • www.thegunterhotel.com

10 Collector’s Club The shop sells trading cards. • Opened Sept. 13 • 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Ste. 605, San Antonio • www.collectorsclubtx.com

San Antonio International Airport The city’s airport has added a new nonstop international flight directly to Toronto, the first commercial flight to connect directly to the

country in San Antonio’s history. • 9800 Airport Blvd., San Antonio • www.flysanantonio.com

Expansions

Closings

11 Methodist Hospital Stone Oak The new cardiac catheterization lab offers cardiovascular treatments. • Opened Aug. 29 • 1139 E. Sonterra Blvd., San Antonio

12 Salad and Go The business—which sold salads and breakfast bowls— closed all San Antonio locations. • Closed Sept. 19 • www.saladandgo.com

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NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

Government

BY PARKS KUGLE

San Antonio Council amends policy to carry over past agendas “I think that council members were elected to represent our constituents, and so these CCRs are not just ideas,” Spears said. “They are the actual voices of the people that we represent and who elect us, and those voices shouldn’t be filtered, stifled, [or] delayed, regardless of who’s sitting in the seat.” Jones supported Mungia’s amendment and The amendment clarifies that: Any CCR, that is not currently in the committee process should proceed to the Governance Committee within 60 days of filing or by the second scheduled Governance Committee meeting.

On Sept. 18, San Antonio City Council voted to amend the council consideration request, or CCR, process, which allows council members to place items on upcoming city council agendas. The gist Introduced by District 5 council member Teri Castillo, District 7 council member Marina Alderete Gavito, District 9 council member Misty Spears and District 10 council member Marc Whyte, the amended process will ensure that CCRs are not treated differently when a new council takes over. The amendment passed 8-2, with Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones and District 4 council member Edward Mungia voting against. Whyte argued that allowing previous council members’ CCRs to move forward ensured that their hard work would not go to waste. Spears said CCRs give voters a voice, and allow- ing the requests to fall by the wayside ignores voters’ will.

If a CCR is already in committee at the time a new council takes its place, then the CCR should continue through the committee process.

argued that allowing CCRs from a previous council to move forward doesn’t account for current voters’ positions. “To the [point that] it’s a great idea that came in at the end, if it’s a great idea [then] it’ll still be a great idea,” Jones said. “It just has to get support from the most recent voters.” Stay tuned City Manager Erik Walsh said there are currently 32 active CCRs in the queue and that city staff would create a menu to help council members gain a better understanding of these CCRs and their place in the process.

SOURCE: CITY OF SAN ANTONIO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

“... [Former council members] term out, and [after] all that work for eight months, we’re going to go back to [square one].” MARC WHYTE, DISTRICT 10 COUNCIL MEMBER

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY PARKS KUGLE

San Antonio City Council adopts $4 billion budget On Sept. 18, the San Antonio City Council unan- imously approved a $4.04 billion total budget for fiscal year 2025-26, representing a 2.2% increase from FY 2024-25. The overview On top of approving the FY 2025-26 budget, City Council also set the tax rate; amended prior appropriations and appropriated funds for requirements in city projects and departments; amended existing fees within the general fund and certain restricted funds; and approved projects in a six-year capital improvements program. Key investments within the budget include: • $423,000 for easy access homeless shelter construction • $17 million for sidewalks • $2 million for street lights • $122.4 million for street maintenance/repair • $30.4 million for affordable housing The budget also addresses projected shortfalls of $21 million for FY 2025-26 and $52 million for FY 2026-27, totaling approximately $73 million . The shortfall is partly due to the city’s revenue growing slower than expenses and to property tax values decreasing by 1% , which is the first time the base values have decreased since the 2008-09 recession. After receiving feedback from city council members during the workshop process, the budget will also add a total of 40 additional patrol officers, which includes 25 officers from the original proposed budget and 15 extra officers.

San Antonio amends code of conduct On Sept. 18, the San Antonio City Council voted to amend the City Council code of conduct to discourage council members from signing nondisclosure agreements, or NDAs, in their official capacity. Long story short According to city documents, the amended language in the code of conduct requires the city attorney to provide yearly guidance to City Council on the legal risks associated with NDAs. “The [administrative directive] governs the city, city staff, and the update to the code of conduct ensures that we, all on the dais, understand our responsibilities,” Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones said.

Budget allocations Restricted funds are money received from an external entity that must be used for a specific purpose.

General fund $1.7B Restricted funds $1.2B

Total: $4B

Capital budget $1.1B

*DUE TO ROUNDING THE NUMBERS, THE TOTAL ESTIMATED BUDGET APPEARS SMALLER THAN THE APPROVED BUDGET.

SOURCE: CITY OF SAN ANTONIO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The city of San Antonio FY 2025-26 tax rates

Rate (per $100 valuation)

Type

Debt service tax rate (interest and sinking tax rate)

$0.21150

Code of conduct changes

Maintenance and operations tax rate

$0.33009

Strongly discourages council members from signing NDAs

Establishes a threshold that economic deals must be at least $50 million to potentially require an NDA Ensures council members can request updates on NDA- covered activities Requires council members to inform the city attorney if they are asked to sign NDAs in their professional capacities

$0.54159

Total tax rate

SOURCE: CITY OF SAN ANTONIO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

District 8 Council member Ivalis Meza Gonzalez, Spears and Whyte praised city staff’s diligence and hard work during the budget process. “Every decision required us to weigh our resources against our responsibilities, and at times, that meant making tough choices that aren’t taken lightly,” Gonzalez said.

SOURCE: CITY OF SAN ANTONIO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Hollywood Park City Council increases tax rate for FY 2025-26 by 4.55%

increased tax rate will cost the average home- owner about $80-$100 more per year, according to city staff. Place 4 council member Wendy Gonzalez said the increased tax rate is needed. “When the property values are flat and we’re bringing in a lower rate than we used to, we can’t provide the same services when everything out there costs more, and that’s the reality,” Gonzalez said.

During its Sept.16 meeting, the Hollywood Park City Council unanimously voted to adopt the increased tax rate of $0.47805 per $100 valuation for fiscal year 2025-26. The gist The new tax rate represents a 4.55% increase from last year’s budget, which will net approxi- mately $166,083 in property tax revenue. Multiple city council members noted that the increase is primarily due to rising labor costs. The

“Our city has reached a peak with all the services that we’re providing, and that makes it tricky. When that happens,

there’s three ways that we can fix it, and that is raising taxes, giving up amenities or minimizing our expenses.” GLENNA PEARCE, HOLLYWOOD

PARK CITY COUNCIL MEMBER, PLACE 5

NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY SIERRA MARTIN

Voter Guide

2025

Nov. 4: Election Day and the last day to receive a ballot by mail (or Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at the location of the election on Election Day)

Dates to know

Oct. 6: Last day to register to vote Oct. 20: First day of early voting Oct. 24: Last day to apply for a ballot by mail Oct. 31: Last day of early voting

Where to vote

Bexar County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on Election Day. Visit www.bexar.org/1568/elections-department for polling locations.

Ballot items were rephrased for reader comprehension. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

the hotel occupancy tax will increase by 2% to a total of 17%, and a 5% tax will be applied to rental vehicles.

The issuance of up to $29,165,000 in bonds to construct and renovate athletic facilities, including Blossom Athletic Center, North East Sports Park and the softball complex on Judson Road. Proposition D The issuance of up to $9,685,000 in bonds to construct or upgrade sports stadiums, including Jerry Comalander Stadium and Heroes Stadium. Proposition E The issuance of up to $2,325,000 in bonds to construct and upgrade swimming facilities, including Josh Davis and Walker Natatoriums.

Sample ballot

Bexar County Proposition A

North East ISD Proposition A The issuance of up to $400,345,000 in bonds for constructing facilities and purchasing new school buses. Proposition B The issuance of $53,480,000 in bonds to upgrade instructional technology. Proposition C

Authorize Bexar County to improve the Freeman Coliseum and Frost Bank Center for the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo by increasing the hotel occupancy tax by 2% and using the existing 5% tax on short-term vehicle rentals. Proposition B Authorize Bexar County to build or renovate a new arena for the San Antonio Spurs and other events. If approved,

SOURCES: BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

Bexar County tourist tax looks to fund rodeo expansion, Spurs arena From the cover

The big picture

Coliseum Complex Venue Project Funds will be used to renovate existing east side buildings and construct buildings to create a permanent home for the rodeo.

1 Frost Bank Center 2 Freeman Coliseum 3 New ex building 4 New ex building 5 Modied ex building 6 Modied expo hall 1 7 Modied storage

As Bexar County voters head to the polls Nov. 4, they will decide whether to raise the hotel occupancy tax, or HOT, from 1.75% to 2%. Funds raised from this increased tax, as well as the existing 5% tax on rental cars, will go toward the renovation of the Frost Bank Center, the transformation of the Freeman Coliseum into a permanent home for the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and up to 25%, or $311 million, of the cost for a San Antonio Spurs arena downtown. Voters will decide on two propositions, with Proposition A funding the existing county venues and rodeo, while Proposition B funds a portion of the Spurs arena. Jim Leo, director of communications for Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai, said the tax is estimated to generate $503 million over a 30-year period. Leo said the most important aspect of the vote is that funds raised through this tax can only be used on venues. Je Webster, CEO of the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, said these taxes would not burden the local taxpayer. “[Major] cities do the same thing we’re about to do, [which] is put 99% of the burden on the visitors and tourists that come to the community that utilize the facilities,” Webster said.

Renovated buildings

New buildings

Existing structures

RENDERINGS COURTESY SAN ANTONIO STOCK SHOW & RODEO

E. HOUSTON ST.

SOURCE: STOCK SHOW & SAN ANTONIO RODEOCOMMUNITY IMPACT

A closer look

Put in perspective

$197.01M total cost for renovation and expansion 18 potential events for year-round activity $44M for Frost Center and Freeman Coliseum improvements San Antonio Rodeo breakdown: 1.5M annual visitors to the fairgrounds $330M annual economic impact from the February 2025 Stock Show & Rodeo $384M additional economic impact not including February rodeo event $750M in annual year-round programming

Cody Davenport, CEO of the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, said if both propositions pass, the rodeo can compete with other major rodeo sites, such as Fort Worth. “We’re the gateway to South Texas, and we’re the gateway to Mexico. There is absolutely no reason that we should not have this action right here,” Davenport said. The project will include two new buildings, mod- ied ex stalls and an exposition hall. The modied exposition hall will feature holding pens, a market, a restaurant and a permanent show arena. Davenport emphasized that new facilities would keep a majority of events that leave the area. “[If] we clean this place up to make it more attractive, then I can go out and I can compete, and I can bring these [events] into San Antonio,” Davenport said. If approved by voters, design and planning for the renovation would begin immediately, with construction estimated to take four to ve years.

Rodeo expansion

Three ex buildings: $119M

Expo hall/stall barn upgrades: $35M

Site utilities and upgrades: $14.01M Chilled water central plant: $7.64M Open/lawn landscaping: $7.58M Updated bridges and canopies: $7M Northeast side entrance: $2M Building demo: $1.85M Architecture: $15.3M Food & beverage and retail: $11.57M Mechanical, engineering , plumbing and re protection: $9.87M Technology: $3.59M Freeman Coliseum roof: $4M Structure: $545,830 Frost Bank Center & Freeman Coliseum repairs

$195M for rodeo expansion

SOURCE: SAN ANTONIO STOCK SHOW & RODEOCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: BEXAR COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY PARKS KUGLE

Spurs’ terms to fund arena

The details

What happens next?

Spurs will contribute $500 million plus any cost overruns Spurs and developers to commit $1.4 billion in guaranteed taxable value increment for new mixed-use development over a 12-year period Spurs will pay initial rent of $4 million in rent the rst year, which will escalate by 2% each year thereafter Non-relocation commitment requires Spurs to maintain its NBA franchise in San Antonio and play home games in the arena with few exceptions Spurs will invest $75 million in community bene ts SOURCE: CITY OF SAN ANTONIOCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Proposition B would fund a portion of the new downtown Spurs arena. The construction— described as a public-private partnership between the Spurs, the city of San Antonio and Bexar County—is estimated to cost $1.3 billion. If the city moves forward with Proposition B, also known as Project Marvel, it is proposed that it will use the state’s share of the HOT generated from local tourism, which amounts to $489 million. Webster described the new arena as part of a broader urban revitalization strategy that will boost the city’s economy. “We’re putting it downtown. There’s a lot of synergy,” Webster said. “This stretches from the San Pedro Creek area on the west side to down- town, to the River Walk, to what’s happening at The Alamo, to Hemisfair Park … it’s [about] economic generation, [and] job opportunity.” Liberty Swift, assistant vice president of corpo- rate communications for the Spurs, said the venue tax vote will provide greater investment into the city as a whole.

Leo said the next steps depend on the voters. “If both propositions are thumbs up, we proceed as planned, and if both are thumbs down, they both don’t proceed,” Leo said. “The rodeo is very enthused about going ahead. If they get their thumbs up, they’re going to start building.” Davenport said if the vote doesn’t pass, then the rodeo and the Spurs will go into a holding pattern, with each having to reevaluate their position. “I personally think we’re voting on whether we want the Spurs in San Antonio or not,” Davenport said. “If Proposition B does not go through, it will kill all things going forward. So I think it’s very safe to say the Spurs will leave San Antonio.” The vote on the venue tax will be on Nov. 4 ballots, with early voting taking place from Oct. 20 to 31.

“Approval means investment in the east side and allows us to begin the next chapter with a new downtown arena,” Swift said. Precinct 3 Commissioner Grant Moody said he was against committing resources toward the Spurs Arena. “While I support the rodeo and our Spurs … I couldn’t support the proposed tax increase, Moody said. “The tax increase is a bridge too far for me.”

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NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

Election

BY PARKS KUGLE

On Aug. 11, the North East ISD, or NEISD, board of trustees voted to call a $495 million bond election Nov. 4. What you need to know According to district documents, the proposed bond package was created after a review of NEISD facilities, enrollment trends and instructional needs. Bond funds will be used for: • Renovating and repairing existing school buildings • Enhancing campus safety and security systems • Improving fine arts, athletics and extracurricular North East ISD to hold $495 million bond election

spaces • Upgrading instructional technology and class- room equipment Bond projects were selected after a review by a facilities steering committee, which was formed in December 2024. The committee consisted of parents, community members and NEISD staff, according to the district's bond website. Bond funds cannot be used for daily operating expenses, including salaries and utilities, which are paid using the district’s maintenance and operation budget. Bond funds can only be used for approved capital projects, the district’s bond website states. Zooming In Though the bond is set to raise $495 million for the district, according to district documents, there will be no increase to the current tax rate for at least five years. Terri Chidgey, vice president of the NEISD board of trustees, said the facilities steering committee worked diligently to keep the bond low enough so that it didn’t raise taxes for residents.

“It was very important to [the committee] to keep [the bond] down to a similar amount of the bond issued 10 years ago, even with all of the infla- tion,” Chidgey said. “So quite honestly, there were more things that I wanted on there, but ... they were serious [about keeping] it down to where it did not raise taxes.” Prior to the vote, Chidgey also stressed that this bond wasn’t to build luxury accommodations, but to provide the necessary essentials. “I don’t want to be the board that’s on the news because our air conditioners or heaters are out, as we’ve seen around the city,” Chidgey said. “I want to take care of our children. That doesn’t mean we’re going to build a Playland Park, but it does mean we’re going to keep them cool in the 100 degree weather and keep them warm.” The vote to call a bond election passed 6-1, with District 7 Trustee Marsha Landry voting against. Stay tuned Registered voters that live within the NEISD boundaries are eligible to vote on the bond election Nov. 4.

District overview

Breaking down the bond

NEISD is the second-largest district in San Antonio and the 11th-largest in Texas. If approved, the propositions outlined in the bond would fund projects addressing aging infrastructure, safety and security enhancements, technology upgrades and other improvements across the district, according to its website.

Proposition B

Proposition A

Cost: $400.35M • Replace or improve HVAC system • Safety and security improvements

Cost: $53.48M • Purchase and

Total $495M

upgrade instructional technology equipment

67 schools throughout the district

500 buildings across NEISD

Proposition C

Proposition D

Proposition E

240 portable buildings

Cost: $2.33M • Replace exterior windows and roof covering at Josh Davis Pool

Cost: $29.17M • Renovate Littleton Gym • Improve softball fields, tennis center and baseball fields at Blossom Athletic Center

Cost: $9.69M • Improve plumbing, roofing, lighting at Blossom Athletic Center, Heroes Stadium and North East Sports Park • Improve concession areas and locker rooms

55,000 projected student enrollment for 2025-26 school year

12M total square feet of facilities

*DUE TO ROUNDING THE NUMBERS, THE TOTAL PROPOSED BOND AMOUNT APPEARS LARGER.

SOURCE: NORTH EAST ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

STONE OAK 23026 US Hwy 281 N (210) 497-1322 DE ZAVALA 5219 De Zavala Rd (210) 561-0900

VINEYARD 1309 N Loop 1604 W (210) 408-8206

RECTOR 819 E Rector Dr (210) 340-2244

LEGACY 2003 N Loop 1604 E (210) 494-8600

Election

BY HANNAH NORTON

Breaking down the 17 state propositions on the Nov. 4 ballot

Texas voters will decide on 17 proposed amendments to the state constitution during the Nov. 4 election. The propositions, which were adopted by state lawmakers this year, include measures aimed at reducing property taxes, funding water supply projects and creating a state dementia research institute. SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT DISCLAIMER: AMENDMENT TEXT DOES NOT REFLECT OFFICIAL BALLOT LANGUAGE.

Proposition 6

Proposition 12

Ban on securities transaction taxes HJR 4 would bar lawmakers from imposing taxes on the purchase and sale of financial assets or requiring financial market operators to pay a tax to conduct business.

Judicial oversight SJR 27 would rework the 13-member State Commission on Judicial Conduct to include six judges appointed by the Texas Supreme Court and seven citizens appointed by the governor.

Proposition 1

Proposition 7

Proposition 13

Texas State Technical College funding Senate Joint Resolution 59 would create two new funds to support the Texas State Technical College System, which has campuses statewide. Up to $52 million could be appropriated this year.

Tax exemption for military spouses HJR 133 would allow lawmakers to create a future property tax exemption for the surviving spouse of a veteran who died from an illness related to their military service.

Increasing homestead exemption SJR 2 would raise the property tax exemption on a person’s main residence, known as a homestead exemption, from $100,000 to $140,000. This would apply to taxes charged by public schools.

Proposition 2

Proposition 8

Proposition 14

Ban on capital gains taxes SJR 18 would prohibit the Texas Legislature from imposing any future taxes on capital gains, which is income received from selling an asset. Texas does not currently have such a tax.

Ban on death taxes HJR 2 would prohibit the legislature from imposing future taxes on a deceased person’s estate or an inheritance passed to their heirs. Neither tax currently exists in Texas.

State dementia research institute SJR 3 would allocate $3 billion to create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. An additional $300 million would be available for dementia-related research grants.

Proposition 3

Proposition 9

Proposition 15

Tightening bail rules SJR 5 would require judges to deny bail for certain felony offenses, including murder and aggravated assault, if the state demonstrates that a defendant is a flight risk or threat to public safety.

Business tax exemption HJR 1 would exempt up to $125,000 of businesses’ personal property, such as equipment and vehicles, from taxation. Texas business owners currently receive a $2,500 exemption.

Parental rights SJR 34 would add language to the Texas Constitution stating that parents have the right to “exercise care, custody and control” of their children and determine how to raise them.

Proposition 4

Proposition 10

Proposition 16

Water supply funding House Joint Resolution 7 would send $1 billion in sales tax revenue to the Texas Water Fund each year from 2027-47. The state fund was formed in 2023 to finance water projects.

Homes destroyed in fire SJR 84 would allow a future state legislature to create a property tax exemption for someone rebuilding a home that is completely destroyed in a fire.

Requiring citizenship to vote SJR 37 would enshrine in the Texas Constitution that people who are not U.S. citizens may not vote in Texas elections. Only U.S. citizens are currently eligible to vote under state law.

Proposition 5

Proposition 11

Proposition 17

Animal feed tax exemption HJR 99 would allow state lawmakers, in a future legislative session, to create a property tax exemption for stores that sell animal feed.

Exemption for elderly homeowners SJR 85 asks voters to raise the property tax exemption for homeowners who are over 65 years old or have a disability to $200,000. This would apply to taxes charged by public schools.

Border security tax exemption HJR 34 would exempt increases in a property’s value from taxation if the land is along the Texas- Mexico border and the added value is due to the installation of border security infrastructure.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY PARKS KUGLE

NEISD bans electronic devices during classes To be in line with House Bill 1481’s prohi- bition of personal electronic devices during school day, North East ISD now requires all students to turn o and store their elec- tronic devices during class time beginning in the 2025-26 school year. The overview According to district documents, the Texas Education Agency, or TEA, sent additional instructions informing districts that they could dene what a “school day” means. On Oct. 6, Superintendent Sean Maika said the district’s denition of the “school day” as instructional class time follows the TEA’s guidelines, and students are allowed to use phones during nonclassroom time, such as passing periods and lunch. “[NEISD] set up some guidelines, but we rest on our leaders at our campuses… to come up with things that make sense for them,” Maika said.

North East ISD overall district rating results

Percentage of A-C campuses Percentage of D-F campuses

202223

202324

202425

22%

16%

12%

78%

84%

88%

SOURCE: NORTH EAST ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

During a regular Sept. 8 North East ISD meet- ing, the board of trustees received a breakdown of the district’s performance over the last seven years. In a nutshell Using data released from the Texas Educa- tion Agency, district sta laid out the district’s strengths and weaknesses, and how sta can make improvements moving forward. In the 2023-24 school year, NEISD received 108 distinctions, such as growth, science, social studies and post-secondary readiness. The school year saw 30 distinctions for elementary schools, seven for middle schools and ve for high schools. NEISD improved year over year and North East ISD discusses plans to build on district performance in 202526

saw 116 distinctions, including 31 for elementary schools, six for middle schools and six for high schools for the 2024-25 school year. Improvements in the 2024-25 school year include a 64% increase in “A” ratings from 2023- 24; over 60% of traditional campuses earned at least one distinction, including 10 campuses that earned ve or more distinctions; and an increase in potential college credit opportunities, BranDe Merriman, director of performance and planning said. Identied areas of opportunity include implementing curriculum support and improv- ing performance in math in grades 4-7. All K-12 teachers will participate in professional learning for eective foundation math practices to improve instruction district-wide. Going forward The district will implement a series of strat- egies to improve scores, such as personalized learning, quality instruction, use of technology, a balanced assessment system and increasing collaboration between campuses and the district.

Policy requirements for school systems

Prohibit student use of personal communication devices during the school day The district’s policy must include disciplinary measures for violations Exceptions will be made for students if the device is necessary to comply with a legal the school system’s safety protocols

SOURCE: NORTH EAST ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Northside ISD reduces stang vacancies by 36.55% in 202526 school year In the last year, Northside ISD improved sta retention and reduced the number of open ele- mentary and secondary positions from 145 to 92 in 2024-25. as transportation and custodial workers. Current situation “Two years ago, we were sitting at about 170 [teacher] vacancies. Last

Muir said the district has been implementing a series of strategies to attract and retain sta mem- bers, including a relocation stipend for teachers. Additionally, Muir said classied/auxiliary positions are above 90% lled across most departments, with an estimated 60% ll rate for transportation positions and custodial positions.

year at this time [we had] 145 vacancies, so we’re trending

Ben Muir, the assistant superintendent for Human Resources, gave a presentation on current stang during a regular board of trustees meeting Sept. 23. The presentation included elementary and secondary positions, special education retention and auxiliary positions, such

in the right direction.” BEN MUIR, NISD ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR HUMAN RESOURCES

NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

Transportation

BY PARKS KUGLE

Stone Oak

2 Old Fredericksburg Road Project: The project includes drainage improvements, a new low-water crossing bridge, a roundabout at Lost Creek Gap and new intersection turn lanes. Update: According to county documents, 30% of Phase I construction is completed. • Timeline: January 2025-May 2027 • Cost: $13.25 million • Funding source: Bexar County, San Antonio Water System and the City of Fair Oaks Ranch Water. 3 Evans Road Corridor Project: Stretching from Peacemaker to Barbara Bush Middle School, the project will include two new traffic signals, sidewalks and a signalized pedestrian crossing. Update: The project was awarded to E-Z Bel Construction on Sept. 11. • Timeline: fall 2025-summer 2027. • Cost: $1.45 million Project: The project includes the construction of turn lanes and drainage improvements in the Stone Oak area. Update: Currently in the design phase. • Timeline: summer 2025-summer 2027 • Cost: $5.07 million • Funding source: 2022 General Obligation Bond • Funding source: 2022-27 bond program 4 District 9 Pedestrian Mobility

4B 4C

CAMP BULLIS

3351

281

Hollywood Park

OLD BLANCO RD. 4A

Shavano Park

1604

VOELCKER LN.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

DE ZAVALA RD.

Update: The construction of sidewalks, bike lanes and adding fresh asphalt is underway. • Timeline: summer 2025-July 2026 • Cost: $4 million • Funding source: Federal grant with the remaining costs covered by 2022 bond

Upcoming projects

A C

1 De Zavala Road Project: The project will add a series of drainage improvements, raised curbs with sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Development

BY PARKS KUGLE

The 33-acre Santikos Entertainment development will be located o of US 281.

COURTESY SANTIKOS ENTERTAINMENT

Santikos to build mixed-use Trinity Oaks development

Build your new home with confidence. With a commitment to quality and a reputation for excellence, Toll Brothers is a home builder you can trust in San Antonio and surrounding areas.

Santikos Entertainment is building a new 33-acre, mixed-use development in North San Antonio. The details Known as the Trinity Oaks development, the site will include multiple entertainment and retail options as well as residential accommodations, according to a news release. The project is in the planning stages, and construction has not commenced. The new development will be located near the Timberwood Park area at the corner of Trinity Park and US 281. Trinity Oaks will feature: • 10-12 premium screen theaters • Multiple bowling lanes • A full-service sports bar with stadium seating • A gaming area • Willie’s Grill & Icehouse • A hotel • Multifamily housing • Five additional retail pads Quote of note Blake Hastings, CEO of Santikos

281

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Entertainment, said the project marks a signicant step in their growth strategy. “The community has grown into the vision John Santikos had for this property, and we’re excited to bring a world-class entertainment destination to the area,” Hastings said. The project is estimated to be completed in late 2027, with retail spaces available in early 2026.

Open Mon 10 am–6 pm; Tue 2 pm–6 pm; Wed–Sat 10 am–6 pm; Sun Noon–6 pm. Brokers welcome. Homes available nationwide. Prices subject to change without notice. Photos are images only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an oering where prohibited by law.

NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

Events

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

BOOtanica! Wear costumes and explore diverse ora at this Halloween festival with education stations, trick- or-treating and local food vendors. • Oct. 25, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Free (admission) • San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place, San Antonio • www.sabot.org/events/bootanica

Edu-Cake O with MECA Watch this baking competition between local chefs and businesses while enjoying sweets and supporting children who are unable to attend traditional schools due to disability.

• Nov. 8, 1-4 p.m. • $5-25 (admission) • Brackenridge Park, 3700 N. St. Mary’s St., San Antonio • www.brackenridgepark.org/event/edu-cake-off- with-meca

• Nov. 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 9 a.m. early session • $17 (general admission), $45 (early admission) • Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall, 3201 E. Houston St., San Antonio • www.freemancoliseum.com/event/thrift-con 46th Annual Christmas Showcase Kick o holiday shopping with this expo featuring over 300 vendors and artisans showcasing unique gifts and food. • Nov. 22-23, Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. • Ticket prices vary • Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall, 3201 E. Houston St., San Antonio • www.christmasshowcase.com Ghouls, Goblins & Goosebumps Celebrate the TV and book series “Goosebumps” with this meet and greet with actors from the program and a host of local vendors with toys, gifts and books. • Nov. 22, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • Wonderland of the Americas, 4522 Fredericksburg Road, Balcones Heights • www.kingsofhorrortexas.com/product-page/ghouls- goblins-goosebumps-ga-ticket Brushes and Brunch Get creative and enjoy brunch at this painting workshop and collaborative event. All materials and meals are provided with tickets. • Nov. 23, 12:30-1:45 p.m. • $11.25 child, $27 adult (admission) • Art by M. Butterfly Studio & Event Center, 4212 Thousand Oaks Drive, San Antonio • Facebook: Art By M. Butterfly Art Studio & Event Center

• The Rim, 17703 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio • www.therimsa.com/events/the-rim-hallowine-run

October

Happy Hour at Scuzzi’s Geared for those 55 and older, head to this networking event hosted by the Single Professionals Network to meet friends and enjoy cocktails and food. • Oct. 24, 4-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • Scuzzi’s, 4035 N. Loop 1604 W., San Antonio • www.spn-sa.org Day of the Dead River Parade Celebrate this annual holiday with a showing of themed oats on the River Walk with commemorative altars, displays and costumed actors. • Oct. 24, 7-9 p.m. • $22-34 (general admission) • San Antonio River Walk, Downtown San Antonio • www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events Fall Fest Celebrate the season with this community festival that will have caricature artists, food, live music, crafting and festival characters to meet. • Oct. 25, noon-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • The Village at Stone Oak, 22610 US 281, San Antonio • www.villageatstoneoak.com/events HalloWine Run Dress up in your favorite Halloween costume and run or walk this 5K in style. Celebrate nishing the race with a reception including food, drinks and more. • Oct. 25, 7-10 a.m. • $40 (early bird admission), $45 (general admission), $70 (race day admission)

Oktoberfest Food & Brews Festival Head to San Antonio’s biggest theme park to celebrate autumn the German way with food vendors, live music, amusement rides and more. • Through Oct. 26 • $45 (single admission ticket) • Six Flags Fiesta Texas, 17000 I-10 W., San Antonio • www.sixflags.com/iestatexas/events/oktoberfest- food-festival Halloween Spooktacular Discover this Halloween night event with a costume contest, pumpkin painting workshops and a pet zoo at the Frost Plaza. • Oct. 31, 5-11 p.m. • Free (admission) • The Rock at La Cantera, 1 Spurs Way, San Antonio • www.therockatlacantera.com

November

Black Sabbath & Metallica Tribute Bands Pay homage to these legendary metal bands by rocking with a pair of tribute groups. This event is for ages 21 and older. • Nov. 1, 8 p.m.-close • $15 (cover) • Fitzgerald’s, 437 McCarty Road, Ste. 101, San Antonio • www.itzrockssa.com/events Thrift Con Head to this convention with hundreds of vintage clothing vendors to dig through and nd the right style.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Dining

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Aside from classic English cuisine, the eatery has afternoon tea sessions.

COURTESY THE OLD ENGLISH TEA SHOPPE & CAFE

The Old English Tea Shoppe & Cafe serves classic sh & chips, complete with mashed peas and a side of tartar sauce ($21).

ANDREW CREELMANCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Local cafe brings the taste of Britain to Stone Oak After leaving Manchester, England, for a work trip to Texas, Robb Kelly said he never looked back.

The most popular item, Kelly said, is the tradi- tional Fish and Chips, hand-breaded and complete with fries and mashed peas. Of course, there’s a large tea selection, featuring an array of black teas imported from England and served hot with traditional cups, saucers and spoons. “Everything here is handmade,” Kelly said. Additionally, there’s a myriad of British goods like chocolates, pastries, candy and boxes of tea that guests can choose from. “We have proper English goods and food, it’s some of my favorite stu,” Kelly said. “It’s proper English food, straight from my family; there’s nowhere else like this in Texas.” The restaurant also oers weekly afternoon tea sessions, room for private events, kids’ birthday parties and more. Kelly said he’s even hosted bridal showers and other special events at the tea shop. The outlook Looking ahead, Kelly said the business may be outgrowing its current space in Stone Oak, hinting at a future expansion. “We might try and do a shop up in Austin and maybe down in Corpus Christi,” Kelly said. However, while The Old English Tea Shoppe & Cafe may be growing in the future, Kelly said he wants to maintain its rm sense of community in North San Antonio. “We’re a family restaurant serving families, that’s what we love to do,” Kelly said.

The Old English Tea Shoppe hosts weekly afternoon tea sessions and other themed events.

That was almost two decades ago—now, he’s a local practicing recovery specialist and owner of The Old English Tea Shoppe & Cafe, an authentic British cafe and restaurant in North San Antonio. Some context In England, Kelly said he had an eclectic past, having worked as a session musician at Abbey Road Studios, and performed with artists like David Bowie and Elton John. After receiving his PhD in psychology from Oxford University, he said he found himself homeless and suering from addiction. Then, after deciding to turn things around, he became an addiction recovery psychologist. Kelly said he started his own practice, eventu- ally traveling to Texas for work conferences—with one trip to the Lone Star State 18 years ago keeping him here for good. “I really liked it here, so I stayed here,” Kelly said. “But I did miss the food. Going to restaurants in the area, they didn’t really do it right.” So, Kelly thought it would be a good idea to open up a place of his own that was authentic and true to the British food he grew up enjoying in Northwest England. On the menu Classic British dishes are served at every meal, from the full English breakfast in the morning to entrees like Bangers and Mash in the afternoon.

ANDREW CREELMANCOMMUNITY IMPACT

The cafe is owned by Robb and Janet Kelly (left), his sister Sandra and her husband, Peter Marley.

ANDREW CREELMANCOMMUNITY IMPACT

20122 Stone Oak Parkway, Ste. 105, San Antonio www.theoldenglishteashoppe.com

NORTH SAN ANTONIO EDITION

Real estate

The majority of homes sold in the North San Antonio area were in the $400,000-$599,999 range, according to data from the San Antonio Board of Realtors. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

September 2024

September 2025

+83%

-40%

-3%

+33%

-4%

+61%

78230

78231

78232

78248

78258

78259

78260

281

78260

78258

78259

Median home sales price

1604

78248 78232

September

2024

2025

$387,500 $394,500 $419,000 $535,000 $489,900 $437,500 $550,000

$485,000 $438,250 $347,000 $449,500 $510,000 $420,000 $552,500

78230 78231 78232 78248 78258 78259 78260

78230

78231

Homes sold by price point

September 2025

$800,000+

$600,000-$799,999

Average days on market

$400,000-$599,999

-13%

+32%

+5%

+33%

+13%

-6%

-16%

$200,000-$399,999

<$199,999

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY THE SAN ANTONIO BOARD OF REALTORS • 9110 W. I10 2105931200 • WWW.SABOR.COM

78230

78231

78232

78248

78258

78259

78260

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