SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego County Board of Supervisors conducted a public budget hearing focused on critical funding needs for various community services, including transportation for senior citizens, housing for vulnerable residents, and support for the arts.
During the hearing, held in advance of the scheduled budget deliberations and adoption on June 24, numerous residents expressed their concerns regarding the proposed $8.62 billion budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026.
This budget represents a 1% increase over the current year’s budget, amounting to $85.8 million more than the previous fiscal year, despite ongoing uncertainties stemming from economic conditions and federal policies.
County officials aim to maintain a balanced budget while safeguarding core services for residents, as emphasized in a statement from the county.
However, the budget includes a plan to cut 190 positions, which accounts for slightly less than 1% of the county’s workforce, although not all affected positions are currently filled.
Among the highlighted investments in the budget is over $100 million dedicated to behavioral health services, assistance for more than a million residents relying on programs such as CalWORKs, Medi-Cal, and CalFresh, along with increased funding for inmate care and jail diversion initiatives.
Advocates like Kaley Levitt from Jewish Family Service of San Diego urged supervisors to sustain a crucial transportation program for older residents, warning that service reductions beginning in October could significantly impact seniors’ access to essential services.
Levitt shared a poignant story from a 75-year-old Oceanside resident who emphasized the life-changing benefits of the transportation program, allowing him to attend medical appointments and grocery shop.
“No one should have to choose between groceries and a ride to the doctor,” Levitt stated, advocating for an allocation of $450,000 to continue the program.
Additionally, numerous community representatives underscored the necessity for enhanced housing services, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the LGBTQ community.
Simone Guzman, a North County resident, requested $3 million for adult housing services and shared personal experiences of adversity while living on the streets.
Residents expressed determination, stating, “Now is not the time to cut funds for these vulnerable communities,” emphasizing a collective call for allocations to support those at risk of homelessness.
Advocates for legal services also highlighted impending cuts to the Tenant Legal Services program, which is set to be reduced by 50%.
This initiative offers vital legal assistance and emergency rental support to low-income families facing eviction.
Attorney Jennifer Monterroso recounted a success story of how the program enabled a woman to escape an abusive situation and secure housing for her family.
Moreover, supporters of the Arts & Culture Commission advocated for complete funding, with Rebecca Goodman from La Jolla Playhouse suggesting that public funding for the arts is essential for community well-being and mental health.
A District 3 resident also voiced concerns regarding the need for full funding of the county’s Immigrant Rights Legal Defense Program, speaking out against federal treatment of immigrants.
As she noted, “All people in our country deserve due process, regardless of who they are or where they were born.”
Ray Whitmer from Teamsters Union Local 911 expressed worries about proposed pay cuts for county employees, stating that they are integral to maintaining essential services.
“The services don’t get any more core than the services these employees provide,” he stated, urging supervisors to allocate more funding for employee wages.
County Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton, in her opening address, emphasized a commitment to support residents while implementing efficiency strategies amid financial uncertainties.
It’s worth noting that half of the county’s funding originates from state and federal government sources intended for specific programs, while the remainder comes from property taxes and service fees.
Additional budget highlights include:
– A $13.1 million increase for housing support, including short-term rental assistance for individuals with serious behavioral health conditions.
– A $26.2 million boost for outpatient substance use services.
– A $14.6 million increase to establish two new Crisis Stabilization Units in El Cajon and Chula Vista.
– An allocation of $3.5 million to enhance emergency medical services in rural areas such as Dulzura and Pauma Valley.
– A $14.3 million investment toward helicopter acquisition to bolster firefighting and search-and-rescue capabilities.
– $48.3 million dedicated to improving road safety measures, including traffic signals and new sidewalks.
– A $29 million investment to upgrade jails run by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, focusing on fire alarms and security enhancements.
– $843.5 million to improve access to CalFresh, Medi-Cal, CalWORKs, and other public assistance programs for over a million residents.
– $267.3 million to uphold public health measures aimed at preventing disease and ensuring access to healthcare services.
As the county prepares for deliberations and potential adoption of the budget on June 24, residents and officials alike await outcomes that balance fiscal responsibility with vital community needs.
The newly adopted budget is set to take effect on July 1.
image source from：https://patch.com/california/san-diego/county-supervisors-get-public-feedback-proposed-budget
