On Tuesday, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a robust budget of $8.63 billion for the upcoming 2025-26 fiscal year. This decision reflects a budget increase of $104 million, equating to a 1.2% rise overall, according to a statement from an official addressing the supervisors.
The revised budget, which saw an increase of $18.3 million from previous proposals, prioritizes public safety and core services that support the residents of San Diego. The original recommended budget, released on May 1, was initially set at $8.62 billion, representing a 1% increase compared to the current fiscal year. County officials noted that this budget aims to protect essential services while continuing to invest in key issues relevant to San Diegans.
Funding for the county comes primarily from state and federal government allocations designated for specific purposes. Additional revenue streams include property taxes and various fees for services, among others.
The newly adopted budget earmarks significant funds for various programs and initiatives, highlighting the county’s commitment to addressing community needs and improving public services. Notably, a $13.1 million increase has been allocated to provide housing, including short-term rental assistance, for those facing serious behavioral health conditions.
Moreover, the budget features a substantial $26.2 million increase for substance use outpatient services, showcasing the county’s dedication to tackling addiction and mental health issues. To further enhance support services, $14.6 million will be directed towards establishing two new Crisis Stabilization Units in El Cajon and Chula Vista.
Emergency services also received attention, with an allocation of $3.5 million aimed at enhancing fire and emergency medical services in underserved areas such as Dulzura, Pauma Valley, and East Otay Mesa. Additionally, the budget includes $14.3 million for the purchase of a new helicopter intended for expanded firefighting and search and rescue missions.
Safety and infrastructure improvements are also prioritized, with $48.3 million dedicated to enhancing road safety through the installation of traffic signals, curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, guardrails, and new sidewalks and bike lanes. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office will see $29 million for improvements in jails, including upgrades to fire alarm systems and security equipment.
The budget’s social safety net provisions are robust, with an impressive $843.5 million allocated to assist over one million individuals in accessing public assistance programs, including CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and CalWORKs. Public health initiatives to “prevent epidemics and the spread of disease” will receive $267.3 million to ensure essential services remain available through health centers, home visiting programs, and pharmaceutical services.
The new budget will take effect on July 1. Vice Chair Terra Lawson-Remer acknowledged the monumental effort it took to craft this budget amidst challenging circumstances, particularly given the looming potential of federal budget cuts. Lawson-Remer emphasized the importance of continued support for employee recruitment and retention, stating that while progress has been made, further work remains.
The county board has been operating with one less member since Nora Vargas vacated the District 1 seat earlier in the year. Despite some differences in opinions regarding specific programs, such as the Immigrant Legal Defense Program, Supervisor Jim Desmond expressed his general approval of the budget, especially the significant funding increases for public safety and behavioral health services.
Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe reflected on the value of public input on the budget, while raising concerns about future funding, specifically regarding an innovative housing trust fund and partnerships for the Medi-Cal program. She reiterated the need to remain vigilant in navigating future budgetary uncertainties, stressing the importance of planning for both favorable and adverse scenarios.
The board commended Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton and her team for their work in developing the budget. Many residents echoed their support during the public comment period, underscoring the budget’s significance and the county’s ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of its constituents.
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