Email suggests San Antonio mayors staff gave contradictory advice on animal-welfare proposal

Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones faced criticism after she unilaterally withdrew a proposed ordinance targeting pet dumping, citing an “expired” Council Consideration Request (CCR). However, emails obtained by the Current indicate her chief of staff had previously assured council members that CCRs approved before Jones' administration would still be valid. This discrepancy raises concerns about the mayor's transparency and the legitimacy of her rationale. The ordinance, backed by Animal Care Services, would impose fines of up to $2,000 for those who abandon pets. Councilman Marc Whyte emphasized that the ordinance had the support to pass unanimously, suggesting the withdrawal was politically motivated.

In light of Jones' decision, Whyte and other council members have initiated a memo to reinstate the item on the agenda. Political consultant Laura Barberena noted that there is no formal process for "expired" CCRs under San Antonio's charter, further complicating the issue. The situation highlights tensions within the new council and the ongoing debate over animal welfare legislation.