What does it take to lead one of Texas’ fastest-growing counties?

In this episode of Breaking Ground SA, we sit down with Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, economic growth, public-private partnerships, and the future of San Antonio.

Judge Sakai shares the powerful story of his grandparents’ immigration from Japan, his father’s experience in World War II internment camps, and how those family values of hard work, integrity, and humility shaped his career in public service.

Timestamps:

1. 00:00 – Family roots, internment camps, and core values
2. 02:07 – Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley
3. 05:06 – UT Law School and early career lessons
4. 13:04 – Choosing public service over higher pay
5. 16:12 – Serving as a judge and building the Children’s Court
6. 23:10 – First political campaign and community support
7. 26:20 – Becoming Bexar County Judge
8. 33:39 – Modernizing county government and improving efficiency
9. 39:14 – Propositions A & B and the Spurs arena discussion
10. 46:29 – Clarifying Project Marvel
11. 52:14 – East Side revitalization and long-term economic strategy
12. 59:02 – Housing, transit, and the Silver Line vision
13. 1:01:14 – Why economic growth drives prosperity
14. 1:03:37 – Leadership, family, and protecting future generations

Resources:

1. RECSA: https://recsanantonio.com/

Breaking Ground SA is a podcast of the Real Estate Council of San Antonio, exploring the people, projects, and decisions shaping the future of our city.

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