According to U. S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, when San Antonio comes to Washington D.C., we make a direct impact. During his speech to attendees of SA to DC 2016, Cuellar stated that with the world heritage designation, transportation dollars coming into the area and the funding for a new federal courthouse, 2015 was a banner year for the San Antonio area.
And, while we have seen progress on many San Antonio issues, Cuellar shared updates on some of the other issues his San Antonio constituents have been working on, including ensuring there is actual progress made on the federal courthouse, direct access from San Antonio to Reagan International Airport, and tax reform.
In addition, Cuellar stated that there are issues we still need to look at, including immigration reform, and even through it is difficult to make progress in a Presidential election year, he hopes to make headway in 2017.
SA to DC attendees were treated to welcoming remarks from former San Antonio Mayor, Julian Castro, who new serves as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Castro began his remarks by commending the SA to DC organizers, the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Free Trade Alliance on perfecting the art and science of making sure San Antonio's voice is heard. Because San Antonio is a growing, prosperous city and looks like the America of tomorrow, Castro said, "It makes a big difference to folks here in Washington D.C., to hear your voice."
Castro congratulated the city of San Antonio on securing funding for our federal courthouse, which will ultimately benefit our entire community. He also thanked the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce's Immediate Past Chairman, Henry Cisneros for his term and continued contributions to San Antonio.
After watching the presentations and overviews from our issues teams, Castro reminded the crowd that, "The squeaky wheel gets the grease, but it is not enough to just squeak. You have to be smart and you have to be prepared. And, that's what I know you are here." He also reminded everyone on the importance of being up to date on the issues, focused on what San Antonio needs to grow and prosper, ready to make the case and follow up.
In closing, Castro expressed his pride in what is happening in San Antonio and added, "I hope the city will continue to invest in people and brainpower to ensure we have what is necessary to prosper in this 21st century global economy."
Education and Workforce Issue Team Captains Dr. Rudy Reyna and Mario Barrera
Each year, the Federal Agenda serves as a guide for the annual SA to DC trip and outlines specific requests from San Antonio's largest industries including health care, manufacturing, tourism, energy, cybersecurity and aerospace. After several months of planning, drafting and vetting agenda items, our SA to DC Issue Team leaders presented their key issues during the Opening Reception and "First Caucus" party during our first night in Washington D. C. To get feel for what our San Antonio delegation was advocating for during this year's SA to DC trip, take a few minutes to watch our Issue Team Overviews and Presentations.
Healthcare and Bioscience Issue Team Captain Vicki Perkins
When it comes to Bexar County and San Antonio, our delegation works together, Congressman Henry Cuellar told the attendees of SA to DC. He first said he felt that an appropriations bill will be passed by Congress in time to pay for Homeland Security before the deadline passes. He also saw potential for more funding for Housing and Urban Development, transportation initiatives and for education/workforce programs.
Cuellar said that his focus is on the border. He describes how the border provides trade for San Antonio and South Texas and Washington needs to continue building on what is good about the border. He said there is a need for the right technology to bring the legitimate trade and tourism moves efficiently while also focusing on the security piece that is talked about more regarding border discussions.
He told the group he supports the designation of the missions to be designated a World Heritage Site. He has been working with Congressman Hurd on that issue. He also supports funding for a new federal court house.
Cuellar said he supports expanding trade agreements, especially the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) to expand trade with the east.
