San Antonio Planning Department Strategic Plan

The City of San Antonio has a longstanding commitment to urban development: balance growth with preserving its cultural and environmental heritage. In the summer of 2023, the City recognized it needed refreshed strategic approach to guide the Planning Department’s operations and better align the department’s mission with the city’s evolving needs.

The strategic planning process addressed mitigating resource constraints, improving internal operations, and strengthening relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.

MIG facilitated confidential interviews with staff and leaders across City departments to identify key strengths and areas for improvement. The process was both thorough and inclusive, incorporating the perspectives of all the diverse key stakeholders. A two-day retreat brought together Planning Department staff to refine the department’s mission and develop concrete goals for the next three years. The retreat provided a platform for open dialogue, allowing staff to share insights and contribute to the development of a strategic framework. This event was a critical step in fostering a sense of ownership and shared purpose among the team—the Planning Department emerged with a renewed mission and a clear set of strategic goals.

The new roadmap will guide the Planning Department’s efforts during the next three years. The department’s leadership is now equipped with the tools and strategies needed to address both current and future challenges and is well-positioned to continue its vital work, ensuring that San Antonio’s growth is sustainable, equitable, and reflective of the city’s rich cultural heritage.