San Antonio City Council Convenes Special Session to Discuss Possible Reprimand of Mayor

Special Session Called Over Conduct Allegations

The San Antonio City Council is scheduled to meet today, Monday, February 23, 2026, for a high-stakes special session focused on a potential reprimand of Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones. The meeting, which is set to begin at 10:00 a.m., was triggered by a formal memorandum and a code of conduct complaint filed by several members of the council earlier this month.

The primary item on today’s agenda is the discussion of allegations regarding the Mayor’s professional conduct. A five-signature memo, submitted on February 9, claims that Mayor Jones has demonstrated a pattern of unprofessional behavior toward city staff, residents, and fellow council members since she assumed office last summer. The signatories of the memo include Councilmembers Phyllis Viagran, Teri Castillo, Marina Alderete Gavito, Ivalis Meza Gonzalez, and Misty Spears.

Code of Conduct Complaint and Tensions

In addition to the collective memo, District 1 Councilwoman Sukh Kaur filed a formal code of conduct complaint following a specific incident involving the Mayor on February 5. While the full details of that complaint have not been made public, it has added significant weight to today's proceedings. These developments follow months of mounting tension within City Hall over several major policy initiatives and administrative changes.

Critics on the council have pointed to disagreements over "Project Marvel," a major downtown development initiative, and the Mayor's efforts to alter the council’s consideration request process. There have also been public debates regarding a proposal to move municipal elections from May to November of odd-numbered years, a move some council members argue would politicize local governance.

Mayor’s Response and Other City Business

Mayor Jones issued a statement ahead of today’s meeting, expressing disappointment that her colleagues felt a special session was necessary. She defended her leadership style, stating it is grounded in her lived experience and a tireless advocacy for the city's progress, even when it results in friction with other elected officials.

Aside from the disciplinary discussion, council members are also expected to review a recent proposal regarding public transportation. The Mayor has requested that VIA Metropolitan Transit develop a pilot program for fare-free bus service on the city’s five most-used routes. Supporters of the plan, including Councilmembers Jalen McKee-Rodriguez and Ric Galvan, argue it would significantly reduce barriers for working-class residents.

Finally, residents are reminded that early voting for the March 3rd primary elections continues today across Bexar County. Polling sites in San Antonio will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. as part of the early voting period which runs through the end of this week.