The San Diego County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a revised budget of $8.63 billion for the 2025-26 fiscal year on Tuesday, marking an increase of $18.3 million primarily aimed at enhancing public safety measures.
This newly adopted budget reflects an overall increase of $104 million, or 1.2%, as confirmed by an official message to the supervisors.
Originally presented on May 1, the initial budget proposal was set at $8.62 billion, featuring a 1% increase over the current fiscal year.
According to a statement from the county, this budget was designed to uphold essential services for residents while continuing to invest in issues deemed important by San Diegans.
Approximately half of the county’s financial resources come from state and federal government allocations earmarked for specific programs, while the remainder is derived from property taxes and various service fees.
Key enhancements included in the new budget encompass the following highlights:
– A dedicated $13.1 million increase for housing initiatives, particularly short-term rental assistance for individuals with serious behavioral health conditions.
– A significant $26.2 million boost for substance use outpatient services aimed at supporting those struggling with addiction.
– A $14.6 million increase toward establishing two new Crisis Stabilization Units in El Cajon and Chula Vista to provide immediate support for individuals in crisis.
– A $3.5 million investment to augment fire and emergency medical services in the Dulzura, Pauma Valley, and East Otay Mesa areas.
– Allocation of $14.3 million for the purchase of a helicopter to facilitate improved firefighting and search and rescue missions.
– A considerable $48.3 million designated for road safety improvements, which includes new traffic signals, curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, guardrails, as well as the addition of sidewalks and bike lanes.
– A $29 million contribution aimed at enhancing the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office jails, which will finance upgrades to fire alarm systems and security equipment.
– A substantial $843.5 million earmarked to enable over one million residents to gain access to public assistance programs, including CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and CalWORKs.
– A $267.3 million investment focused on public health initiatives, designed to prevent epidemics and curb the spread of disease while ensuring comprehensive access through public health centers, home visiting programs, and pharmaceuticals.
The budget is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Vice Chair Terra Lawson-Remer reflected on the challenges faced during the budgeting process, particularly in light of potential federal budget cuts.
Lawson-Remer emphasized that the budget thoughtfully addresses employee recruitment and retention issues, although she acknowledged the need for further work in this area, particularly following the departure of Nora Vargas from the District 1 seat, which has left the board short-staffed since January.
Colleague Jim Desmond expressed satisfaction with most aspects of the budget, particularly the substantial funding allocated for public safety initiatives, totaling over $100 million for behavioral health services, alongside the additional resources directed to a 16-bed psychiatric facility at Tri-City hospital.
Desmond pointed out that the budget successfully maintains service levels for libraries, parks, and road improvements, ensuring continued access to community resources.
Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe commended the public feedback received during the budgeting process but voiced concerns regarding the future funding prospects for an innovative housing trust fund and partnerships related to the Medi-Cal program.
Montgomery Steppe remarked that while the county has made commendable strides with the new budget, it is crucial to remain prepared for possible adversities.
Acknowledging the efforts of the county staff involved in crafting the budget, all four supervisors expressed their appreciation, with Joel Anderson notably praising the work of Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton and her team.
During the public comment period, individuals shared their thoughts, with many praising the budget’s emphasis on people-first investments, particularly concerning immigrant legal defenses and adult housing services.
Noah Yee Yick from the San Diego Center for Policy Initiatives emphasized the necessity for housing and health care, suggesting that San Diego County must step in should the federal administration withdraw support.
However, one resident expressed confusion over the budget, requesting clarity on how it would improve the quality of life in unincorporated areas.
Jim Vargas, CEO of Father Joe’s Villages, lauded the supervisors for their commitment to addressing homelessness through increased funding for behavioral health services.
In a prepared statement, Vargas underscored the importance of recognizing partnerships in CalAIM and Medi-Cal Transformation, asserting that these initiatives are vital in tackling both the root causes and impacts of homelessness in the region.
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