In January 2007, Mayor Hardberger formed an advisory panel regarding proposals to establish a River Commission. The advisory panel was chaired by Brenda Vickrey Johnson, and included Ben Brewer, President of the Downtown Alliance - San Antonio, Greg Gallaspy, CEO of the Paseo del Rio Association, Roberto Anguiano of the SAWS Board, Bill Shown of Silver Ventures, Jim Cullum of Riverwalk Jazz, David Straus of Straus-Frank Company, Assistant City Manager Penny Postoak Ferguson and staff support from Mayor's Office, Trey Jacobson and Larry Zinn.

At the May 1 “B” Session, the Advisory Panel recommended the creation of a River Commission with a mission to provide comprehensive oversight of the development and operations of the San Antonio River in a manner which protects, preserves, and enhances the history, heritage, charm, and uniqueness of the River both Downtown and along future expansions of the River. The River Commission would advise the City Council, Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC), Planning Commission, Zoning Commission, and Board of Adjustments on zoning, land use and design requirements related to both public and private projects along the San Antonio River (RIO 1-6).

On May 30, 2007, the City Council passed Ordinance No. 2007-05-30-0591 which established a seven-member River Commission. The River Commission is to serve in an advisory capacity to the City Council on all aspects of the development and operations of the River Walk and the San Antonio River. Terms of the River Commission are to be staggered and determined by the Council as follows: two initial members shall serve one-year terms; two shall serve two-year terms; and three shall serve three-year terms.

On June 28th the Council approved seven appointments for five categories, Business, Community, Conservation, Historic Preservation and Tourism.

For more information on the
San Antonio River Commission, call 207-0038.