Southwest Community Association

What Is The San Antonio River Authority & Why Should I Care?

Apr 01, 2003

What is the San Antonio River Authority (SARA) and Why Should I Care?
SARA?’s purpose is the preserve, protect and manage the resources and environment of the 225-mile San Antonio River and its tributaries. It includes Bexar, Goliad, Karnes and Wilson counties. It?’s governing board is elected by the common citizens. Unfortunately, most people are never even aware when SARA elections take place?—and they know little about the candidates. (Bexar County has 6 members on the SARA board, while each of the other counties have 2 members each.) SWCA is in SARA?’s District 1. Our SARA Board member is Mr. Jim Johnson (271-3593), who began his term Feb 1, 2001 and will be up for re-election in 2007. Board members get paid $150 for each meeting. Additionally, meals are provided at their meetings and they are reimbursed for any travel costs for seminars, conferences, etc.
SARA has taxing authority, but had NOT taxed us for about 10 years. However, this year, SARA reinstated a tax on the residents of each county. The amount is 1.64 cents, for each $100 of appraised property value. The purpose of this tax is to try to fund projects to help stop flooding.
This information provided to help you be more knowledgeable and informed. The SARA website is ?“www.sara-tx.org?”.