The City of Fair Oaks Ranch held a regular City Council meeting on November 7, 2024, where key discussions centered around the ownership and maintenance of a deteriorating road currently under Bexar County's jurisdiction. The council members expressed concerns about the implications of using taxpayer dollars to repair a road that the city does not own.

The meeting began with council members addressing the urgent need for road repairs, highlighting safety issues due to the road's poor condition. A council member noted that while the proposed repairs could save money in the short term, the ownership issue must be resolved to avoid future complications. The council agreed that it is problematic to invest in infrastructure that does not belong to the city.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the collaboration between the city and Bexar County regarding the road's maintenance. The council learned that estimates for the repairs were developed jointly by both parties, which included assessments of the necessary work. The council members were informed that the repairs should last 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance, but concerns were raised about the potential liability in case of accidents on the road, given the unclear ownership status.

The council members emphasized the importance of addressing the ownership issue before proceeding with any agreements. They suggested that the city should negotiate with Bexar County to ensure that any financial contributions towards the road repairs are contingent upon a transfer of ownership to the city. This would not only clarify maintenance responsibilities but also protect the city from future liabilities.

The discussion also touched on the procedural aspects of annexation, noting that the city cannot unilaterally annex the road due to its location within San Antonio's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). The council recognized the need to work collaboratively with San Antonio to facilitate the release of the road from its ETJ, which would allow for a formal annexation process.

As the meeting concluded, the council members expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with Bexar County that would involve them taking responsibility for the road's repairs while also paving the way for future ownership transfer. The council aims to initiate this process promptly, ideally starting repairs in the spring or summer of the following year. The discussions underscored the council's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents while navigating the complexities of intergovernmental agreements.