San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria has found himself at the center of controversy following a puzzling report suggesting he may end a lucrative partnership with private ambulance providers.
For nearly two decades, San Diego voters have expressed their concerns regarding the city’s mounting compensation costs, which have frequently overshadowed essential services.
This sentiment was evident in 2006 when voters approved a charter amendment allowing the city to hire independent contractors if they could provide services more efficiently than city workers.
Similarly, in 2012, residents overwhelmingly backed a ballot measure that abolished costly defined-benefit pensions for most new city employees, demonstrating a strong desire to mitigate financial burdens.
Despite the clear mandate from voters, their wishes have often been overlooked by city leaders.
In recent months, the urgency of addressing pension costs has become more pressing, with San Diego’s pension board approving a staggering $533.2 million annual payment for the city starting July 1.
This payment marks a $44 million increase from the previous year and surpasses the pension system’s actuary forecast by $35 million for 2024.
Amid these financial struggles, Gloria’s potential decision to terminate the city’s profitable partnership with private ambulance services has raised eyebrows.
Reportedly generating $17.3 million in profits over the past 19 months, the partnership has become a crucial source of revenue, especially as the city grapples with an estimated budget deficit of $258 million for the fiscal year 2025-26.
Despite these financial benefits, Gloria and Fire Chief Robert Logan have discussed bringing all ambulance services back under city control, a move that could exacerbate already significant pension liabilities.
The Union-Tribune highlighted the confusion surrounding this proposed shift, questioning why city officials would consider dismantling a model that has yielded substantial profits amid fiscal challenges.
This decision comes on the heels of San Diego voters expressing their distrust in City Hall by rejecting a proposed 1 percentage point sales tax increase last November.
Moreover, the city has faced considerable backlash over a recent hike in trash collection rates that affected over 200,000 households, with residents feeling misled about the costs.
Critics argue that Gloria appears disconnected from the realities facing San Diegans, suggesting that he is operating in a bubble far removed from his constituents’ concerns.
As the mayor’s decisions come under scrutiny, there are calls for the City Council to intervene and steer Gloria back towards more responsible governance.
If the Council fails to take action, some suggest that a ballot measure may be the only recourse for residents seeking to hold their elected officials accountable and protect themselves from further financial missteps.
The ongoing dialogue around Gloria’s choices will be essential as San Diego navigates its fiscal future and strives to deliver essential services to its residents.
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