City manager spotlights Community Tool Shed program to help residents meet property maintenance and code needs

City Manager Eric (last name not given in the transcript) presented a video Oct. 16 highlighting San Antonio’s Community Tool Shed program, which the manager said has operated since 2012 to help residents maintain properties and address vegetation-related code compliance.

The program provides residents free access to lawn and garden equipment — including electric and gas lawnmowers, trimmers, chainsaws, pole saws, and hand tools — with no deposit required, according to a city staff member featured in the video. The staff member said residents must bring valid identification and sign paperwork; staff will demonstrate equipment if needed and assist with loading. “Everything’s free of charge,” the staff member said in the presentation.

City Manager Eric said the city is expanding the program’s equipment and options for residents with limited transportation and that the city plans to increase outreach so more residents use the service. A code officer in the video described the program as a way to reduce the economic burden of buying equipment to address compliance and to support neighborhood beautification.

Ending The presentation concluded with a request from the manager that councilmembers help spread awareness; staff indicated there will be more promotional materials and outreach to encourage use of the tool shed program.