For the past several days, we have witnessed brushfires ignite in the San Diego region, and with awe and respect, we are grateful for the swift and skilled response of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department in quickly containing the outbreaks. Santa Ana winds and dry conditions are still with us, and it is crucial to be prepared. The City of San Diego offers several resources to help you create a plan that best suits your needs, and to be ready should an evacuation notice occur. You can also register for alerts to stay in the know. Be safe, San Diego.

Look for Chief Logan’s update on the Fire-Rescue Department’s readiness at the City Council’s January 28th session. Also, the City will be hosting a conversation on fire safety and the possible formation of a Fire Safe Council in Carmel Valley in early February, watch for details.

Save the dates! I am once again hosting annual town halls across District 1. I will reflect on the accomplishments of the past year and share goals for the year ahead, especially given my new role as Council President. From there we will open the conversation to your questions and concerns on both District 1 and city-wide issues. Look forward to my candid responses as we work together on challenges and opportunities. You can attend any or all of the town halls. Be sure to keep an eye on my social media accounts and weekly newsletter for reminders and additional information.

I was honored to be back at my alma mater, San Diego State University, to speak at the Academy for Local Elected Officials (ALEO) Conference, hosted by the School of Public Affairs. Geared primarily to newly elected officials and senior staff members, I shared my journey into City Council, the importance of engaging with those who may not share one’s values or viewpoints and keeping an open mind for taking on leadership roles that might not have been on your initial radar. I appreciated the opportunity to share my insights, and I hope this inaugural event will be recurring to serve each new generation of leaders.

Reminder! We are one week out from the Regional Task Force on Homelessness annual Point-in-Time Count. This community bonding event provides a firsthand glimpse into the struggles of our unhoused population and helps us to better understand the resources needed to support them. Please join me, my team, and hundreds of other San Diegans in making a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable neighbors.

Council President Joe LaCava

Councilmember, District 1

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