SAN ANTONIO — The City of San Antonio and the San Antonio Police Officers Association exchanged proposals regarding officer pay on July 9, 2026. This exchange occurred during ongoing contract negotiations for a new labor agreement.

The San Antonio Police Officers Association (SAPOA) proposed biannual raises that would result in a total 20.5% increase in officer pay over a three-year contract. In contrast, the City of San Antonio proposed a 14.8% increase in officer pay over the same three-year period, also delivered through a series of raises.

The difference between the two proposals could amount to more than $3,700 in potential yearly pay for a rookie officer by the end of the contract. For the most senior captains, this difference could exceed $7,900 in potential yearly pay. Both entities began negotiating the new contract in late January 2026.

Negotiations had previously been paused by the union due to an earlier city offer. The former president of the San Antonio Police Officers Association described that previous city offer as a "slap in the face."

Deputy City Manager Maria Villagomez provided context for the city's approach, stating, "Compensation is not just the base pay, but we're also looking at some of the incentive pays and, of course, healthcare as well. So all that combined will make that final compensation packet." Sergeant Christopher Lutton emphasized the importance of competitive compensation, saying, "These are the people you call when you need assistance. You want the highest caliber individual that you can get. We just don't want to check a box with individuals coming in."

While the City of San Antonio and the union have settled matters concerning hours of work in the new contract, pay and health benefits remain unresolved. City staff aim to finalize the contract before a draft budget is presented to the City Council on August 13, 2026. Any agreement reached during the negotiations will require acceptance by both the union membership and the San Antonio City Council.

An evergreen clause in the current contract stipulates that existing terms will remain in place for up to eight years if a new deal is not reached by the end of September 2026. The City of San Antonio and the union are scheduled to meet again on July 16, 2026.