In this insightful episode of Beyond the Bite, City Council members Marina Alderete-Gavito and Marc Whyte come together to discuss pressing issues facing San Antonio. Their conversation dives deep into the inefficiencies in government operations, particularly spotlighting animal care services and the challenges posed by dangerous dogs and year-round pet breeding. Despite differing opinions on a CPS rate increase—with Alderete-Gavito voting for it and Whyte proposing a halved increase—the two emphasize a united front on strategic investments for the city's surplus budget. Alderete-Gavito highlights the significance of protecting financially vulnerable citizens during rate increases, while Whyte stresses the need to decrease city spending in order to be less dependent upon CPS Energy revenues. That way, Whyte argues, CPS Energy can keep more of its money for future generation plants and will be less likely to seek additional rate increases.

The episode also sheds light on the importance of constituent services, as both council members recount their firsthand experiences with issues such as homeless encampments near schools and parks. They advocate for safety-oriented regulations and support initiatives like the low-barrier shelter program aimed at offering comprehensive help to the homeless population. Additionally, Alderete-Gavito and Whyte address the heavy workload that comes with council duties, underscoring the need for full-time dedication and the financial difficulties council members face, opening up about the underestimated scope of their responsibilities and the depth of commitment required to serve their constituents effectively.

To conclude, Alderete-Gavito and Whyte share their perspectives on the need for transparency and accountability within the city government. They express frustration with bureaucracy and deliberate on the potential for revising city operations to prioritize efficient use of taxpayer dollars. The charter review commission's investigations into the tenure and compensation of the city manager, council member compensation, and the handling of redistricting issues are also touched upon, in addition to a lighthearted sign-off looking ahead to 2024, reaffirming their commitment to the progression of San Antonio. Tune in for a nuanced and thought-provoking journey with us, on "Beyond the Bite." Let's dive in.

Councilwoman Marina Alderete-Gavito

https://www.sa.gov/Directory/Departments/Mayor-Council/City-Council/D7/Biography

Councilman Marc Whyte

https://www.sa.gov/Directory/Departments/Mayor-Council/City-Council/D10/Biography

Animal Care Services (City of San Antonio)

https://www.sa.gov/Directory/Departments/ACS

CPS Energy

https://www.cpsenergy.com/

CPS Energy Vision 2027

https://www.cpsenergy.com/en/about-us/vision-2027.html

David Zamiello

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-j-zammiello-sphr-8a3a6111/

Bonnie Elder

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-prosser-elder-59606b9/

Llano Realty Partners

https://llanorealty.com/

Podcast Edited by Nick Chamberlain

https://everywordmedia.com/

Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media