San Antonio Daily Brief: Primaries, water rates, and safety updates
San Antonio, TX – March 4, 2026 – Primary election results update, SAWS proposes an 8% summer rate hike, and SAPD reports new public-safety incidents.
Public safety: stepped-up patrols after Austin shooting
Local law enforcement says it will boost patrols and visibility in the days ahead, with extra attention on places of worship, schools, and other high-traffic gathering spots. The moves come as officials try to calm community fears after a deadly attack in Austin that investigators have publicly linked to international tensions.
March 3 primaries: key Bexar County results
Several high-profile local races took shape Tuesday night. In the Democratic primary for Bexar County judge, former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg defeated incumbent Judge Peter Sakai and will face Republican Patrick Von Dohlen in November.
The Democratic primary for Bexar County district attorney is headed to a May 26 runoff between the top two finishers, Luz Elena Chapa and Jane Davis. On the Republican side, Ashley Foster secured the nomination for November.
SAWS rates: 8% hike pitched to prevent system failures
San Antonio Water System leaders are pushing a proposed 8% rate increase that could take effect July 1 if approved. Utility leaders say the funding is needed to keep up with aging pipes and wastewater infrastructure, and the proposal is part of a longer multi-year plan to finance major capital projects.
Public hearings are expected April 7 and May 5 before the utility board decides whether to send the request to City Council for final approval.
San Antonio Zoo incident: gun pulled during dispute over a child
Police say a dispute at the zoo ended with a man pulling a gun and pointing it at another adult. No injuries were reported, and an arrest was made. Authorities say the case includes allegations of child endangerment and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
What to watch next
- Runoff Election Day is May 26 for races that didn’t clear 50% in the primaries.
- SAWS rate hearings are scheduled for April 7 and May 5, with City Council action expected later this spring.
- Expect a visible police presence at major venues and community gathering places in the near term.
Sources
- https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2026/03/04/sapd-bexar-county-sheriff-unveil-plans-to-ease-fears-after-shooting-in-austin/
- https://www.ksat.com/news/politics/2026/03/03/election-results-key-races-to-watch-in-march-2026-primary/
- https://www.ksat.com/vote-2026/2026/03/03/all-election-results-for-the-san-antonio-area-and-texas-for-march-3-2026-democrat-and-republican-primaries/
- https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/san-antonio-water-system-rate-increase-hike-21951312.php
- https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/gun-san-antonio-zoo-arrest-21950410.php
