**SAN DIEGO –** Facing a $258 million budget shortfall, San Diego officials have put forth a proposal that would significantly reduce funding for various city services, including parks, libraries, recreation centers, and animal services at the San Diego Humane Society.
Residents and community members have voiced their concerns regarding the proposed cuts, questioning whether such drastic measures are necessary and if there are better alternatives available to balance the budget.
Judith Crowley from Fleetridge East expressed discontent with the City Council, stating, “How many regular folks live 300% over our home budget because we think we can ‘catch up’ on it later or, better yet, live on credit card debt? Not too many, although apparently, this City Council does.”
She criticized the council members for granting themselves raises while the deficit continues to climb.
Community members have particularly highlighted the potential repercussions of closing public restrooms, libraries, and recreational facilities. Sha Rose from Ocean Beach remarked, “Bathrooms, libraries, etc., it’s going cost more if they aren’t open.”
Walter Andersen, a nursery owner in Point Loma, warned that closing restrooms could lead to unsanitary conditions, particularly in popular areas such as Mission Bay.
Mary Munk, who has had significant experience with the restrooms at Kellogg Park in La Jolla Shores, was adamantly opposed to proposed closures, stressing that public facilities are essential for visitors and residents alike.
Munk highlighted the importance of maintaining facilities, stating, “These are the heart of what makes San Diego ‘America’s Finest City.’ Previous budget shortfalls have led to poor conditions and closed services, which impacted the city’s perception by global visitors.”
She further pointed out that the award-winning Kellogg Park South Comfort Station is on the list for potential closure and suggested that if certain services must be cut, maintaining a minimum number of restrooms open during the offseason is essential.
Bill Zent from Pacific Beach proposed that the city adopt strategies similar to the federal government’s approaches to budget cuts. He noted that a new agency called DODGE has been created, which appears to advise officials on how to avoid accountability regarding tax spending.
Jeffrey Rosan of PB North echoed this sentiment, urging for improved transparency in the city’s budget analysis to ensure responsible financial management.
Many residents believe that critical community services like parks and recreation centers should remain untouched. Henish Pulickal from Pacific Beach emphasized that parks and recreation are essential utilities for community health and safety.
“We encourage the city to restore the assistant recreation center director positions in Parks and Rec, as they are vital to keeping park hours intact and delivering necessary programming for youth and families,” he said.
Amid these concerns, residents have suggested various alternatives to address the shortfall without sacrificing essential services.
Mike Frattali from University City proposed leasing or selling excess city properties as a potential revenue source.
Natalie A. from Clairemont criticized spending on projects such as “unwanted bike lanes,” suggesting that resources could be better allocated.
Other residents, like Sandy Silverman from La Playa, offered specific solutions, such as implementing a small tax on boats and maintaining the safety and cleanliness of parks and restrooms.
Mark Linsky from Bird Rock emphasized that previous votes against tax hikes have put the city in a challenging position financially and suggested measures like eliminating administrative vacancies or creating buyouts to alleviate budget constraints.
His call for expanding user fees and permitting fees for building projects was echoed by others who feel that some of the proposed cuts, particularly to parks, libraries, and recreational centers, should be reconsidered or moderated.
As conversations surrounding San Diego’s budgetary woes intensify, residents are adamant that they want to preserve the city’s identity and values that contribute to its designation as ‘America’s Finest City.’
Community members are urging officials to prioritize essential services and explore creative solutions rather than resorting to cuts that could diminish the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
In the wake of the proposed budget cuts, it’s clear that San Diego residents remain committed to preserving the community services they cherish, while urging city officials to find innovative financial strategies to resolve the growing budgetary challenges.
image source from：https://timesofsandiego.com/politics/2025/05/26/coastal-san-diegans-react-proposed-budget-cuts/
