Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones Announces New Voting Commission and Data Center Regulations

Public Forum on Policy Initiatives

On Monday, March 9, 2026, San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones addressed the city's residents to outline a series of high-priority policy initiatives aimed at reshaping the local approach to voter engagement, industrial growth, and federal cooperation. In a featured appearance on Texas Public Radio’s “The Source” at 12:30 p.m., the Mayor detailed an agenda that focuses on institutionalizing nonpartisan support for elections and implementing stricter environmental controls on local infrastructure.

The Mayor’s Commission on Voting

Highlighting a critical need for increased civic engagement, Mayor Ortiz Jones officially proposed the creation of the Mayor’s Commission on Voting. This nonpartisan advisory body is intended to identify and address barriers to the ballot box, with the ultimate goal of improving voter turnout across all San Antonio districts. While the Mayor acknowledged the legal limitations of the city’s direct role—since election administration is primarily handled by Bexar County and the state—the commission will serve as a central hub for advocacy and community education. During her briefing, the Mayor also urged U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz to oppose the SAVE Act, arguing that the federal legislation could create new barriers for eligible voters in Texas.

Oversight of the Data Center Industry

In response to the rapid expansion of technology infrastructure in the region, the Mayor detailed new efforts to regulate the growing data center industry. Working in conjunction with a broader City Council effort, the administration is advocating for better coordination between CPS Energy and the San Antonio Water System (SAWS). A primary focus of these upcoming policies is water conservation; the city is looking to steer data centers toward using recycled water for cooling purposes rather than relying on potable supplies. This initiative aims to manage the growth of the industry while preserving the region's natural resources, balancing the demand for high-paying technical jobs with environmental sustainability.

Opposition to Federal Detention Facilities

The Mayor also reaffirmed the city’s firm stance against the development of a planned ICE mega detention center in San Antonio. This public opposition follows a decisive 8-2 City Council vote to explore zoning changes and a possible moratorium on new private detention centers. Mayor Ortiz Jones called on the state’s congressional delegation to withhold funding for the facility, emphasizing that the city will continue to explore all local authority options to limit the expansion of such private facilities within the community.