Public Entities in San Antonio

Public entities in San Antonio play a pivotal role in delivering essential services and fostering community development. These organizations must navigate complex legal, regulatory, and administrative challenges while maintaining transparency, accountability, and compliance with state and federal laws. At The Jones Law Firm, we provide dedicated legal counsel to municipalities, special districts, government agencies, and other public entities to help them operate effectively within legal frameworks.

Our team understands the unique challenges that public entities face, including governance requirements, regulatory compliance, public-private partnerships, and land use issues. With extensive experience in Texas public entity law, we work closely with our clients to provide strategic legal guidance tailored to their specific needs.

Our Public Entity Representation Services in San Antonio Include:

1. Compliance with Open Meetings and Public Information Acts

Public transparency is essential for maintaining trust and accountability. We assist public entities in understanding and complying with the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) and the Texas Public Information Act (TPIA) to ensure lawful governance. Our services include:

• Advising on proper meeting procedures and public notices
• Ensuring compliance with open records requests
• Training public officials and staff on TOMA and TPIA regulations
• Representing public entities in legal disputes related to transparency laws

2. General Counsel Services

As outside general counsel, we provide legal advice and day-to-day guidance to public entities in various areas of governance and administration. Our services cover:

• Compliance with Texas Government Code and Texas Local Government Code
• Drafting and reviewing contracts, ordinances, and resolutions
• Employment law and personnel matters
• Policy development and risk management
• Regulatory support and dispute resolution

3. Public-Private Partnerships (P3) and Contract Negotiations

Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) enable government entities to collaborate with private businesses to develop and fund essential infrastructure and community projects. We assist public entities in:

• Structuring and negotiating P3 agreements
• Drafting procurement contracts and service agreements
• Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations
• Managing risks and protecting public interests in P3 projects

4. Acquisition of Rights-of-Way and Easements

Securing property rights is crucial for public infrastructure projects, including roads, utilities, and public transportation systems. We provide legal assistance in:

• Negotiating and acquiring easements and rights-of-way
• Handling eminent domain and condemnation proceedings
• Resolving disputes related to land acquisition
• Ensuring compliance with land use and zoning laws

5. Regulatory Compliance and Government Relations

Public entities must operate within a complex legal landscape governed by state and federal laws. Our firm provides strategic counsel on:

• Environmental regulations affecting public projects
• Bond issuances and public finance laws
• Ethics and conflict-of-interest compliance for public officials
• Representation before regulatory agencies