On Tuesday evening, the City Council adopted a final budget that reflects the priorities of our communities and neighborhoods. Thank you to the IBA, City staff, Budget Chair Councilmember Foster, Mayor Gloria, and my Council colleagues for rising to meet the challenges of the FY2026 budget.
 
With newfound revenues and continued streamlining, we restored key city services. I fought to restore funding for wildfire prevention through brush management, storm drain and flood channel maintenance, and the SDPD Northwestern Division. When I say public safety comes first, I mean it.
 
We rejected blanket cuts that ignored impacts on San Diegans. Libraries, recreation centers, and even public restrooms in our shoreline parks, Mission Bay, and Balboa Park are all part of our quality of life. I am proud to lead this Council in bold, community-focused changes. I know that we can meet the new revenue opportunities that we identified. This was a tough year, and we have made the right choices. Now the real work begins.

My two resolutions unanimously advanced out of the City Council’s Rules Committee. The first, “Supporting the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund of 2025” (SB 684 and AB 1243), will hold polluters accountable for their environmental damage, protect our communities, and ensure taxpayers don’t foot the bill. It’s time for polluters to pay.

The second, “Supporting a Package of State Bills Addressing Utility Affordability and Accountability,” expresses the City Council’s support for several bills in the California Senate and Assembly aimed at lowering utility costs and holding investor-owned utility companies accountable. As costs rise, San Diegans demand fair bills and stronger accountability.

Both resolutions will next be considered by the full City Council for a vote.

Thank you to Del Mar Heights ‘Get It Done’ users! Your requests assisted in getting Cordoba Cove and Portofino Drive painted, enhancing visibility for drivers as well as pedestrian and public safety. Keep flagging concerns—your reports improve our neighborhoods. #GettingItDoneInD1

City Council will hear the proposed amendments to Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Junior Dwelling Unit (JADU) regulations on Monday, June 16, at 2:00 PM. As always, your input on the proposed changes is welcome.

Council President Joe LaCava

Councilmember, District 1

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