Just over a week is already in the books since the swearing-in of my second term and the great honor of being unanimously selected as City Council President by my colleagues. I entered this role backed by a unified Council voice, one that is ready to deliver for San Diegans. I am undaunted by the challenges ahead and prepared to harness the strengths of this Council to work with Mayor Gloria and City Attorney Ferbert. We must work together to deliver City services equitably, transparently, and with accountability. 

Most importantly, I am honored to continue serving District 1, building upon the community-driven investments of the past four years. As Council President, I will uplift the needs of my council colleagues' districts, but I also remain committed to the betterment of the communities that I was elected to represent. I take to heart my responsibility to sustain progress on our core City functions – public safety, infrastructure, and homelessness services. My values and my penchant for detailed, thoughtful solutions will continue to guide me in the year ahead. I have said it before and will say it again, constituent services are a top priority for me and my team, please continue reaching out to my office for anything you may need. We are here for you. 

Coming off a rewarding and exciting year as Council President Pro Tem, I was honored to nominate and appoint Councilmember Kent Lee to take up the mantle as the next Council President Pro Tem. Councilmember Lee demonstrated great leadership in chairing the Budget & Government Efficiency Committee and Land Use & Housing Committee last year. It was not an easy year for either, and he successfully guided this Council through the City’s budget and multiple community plan updates. I look forward to working with the Pro Tem as he continues to serve the residents of District 6 and tackle the difficult choices facing the City.

Council Committees do the heavy lifting and initial examination of all matters requiring City Council approval; shaping policies, addressing community needs, and pursuing effective governance. The Council unanimously approved my nominations of the chair and the membership for each of the nine council committees and the one new select committee. My nominations were based on my colleagues' experiences, expertise, and areas of interest. I appreciate their willingness to serve.

New this year, and one of the first actions I took as Council President, was the addition of a limited duration Select Committee on Addressing Cost of Living. We hear time and time again from constituents and see in our daily lives, that San Diego is becoming unaffordable. Costs are rising from housing to utility bills and wages are not keeping up. We need solutions now. Read about the new committee here.

Are you prepared for flooding? The City is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of residents living in areas routinely subject to flooding. In addition, look for flyers on how you can protect your property when heavy rains are predicted.

The pamphlets include important tips on:
•    How to protect your property
•    What steps to take before, during, and after a flood
•    Understanding your potential flood risk
•    Purchasing flood insurance
•    How to contact the City for needed services

My staff and I recently gathered to celebrate the year and reflect on the goals we accomplished. I hold immense pride in my staff’s ability to perform top-tier constituent services, clear communication with residents, and leadership in pursuing meaningful policy. My job would not be possible without the hard work of #TeamLaCava. Look for 2025 to be filled with good work for the betterment of the District and the City.

Council President Joe LaCava

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