Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in National City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
14 issues with high priority
Police Portable Radios via Federal Grant
A $27,226 federal JAG grant would buy portable radios for the police department's radio communication system, improving officer communication and public safety.
Beer and wine service at new Korean BBQ on Highland Avenue
Nearly all new housing built in National City last year was an accessory dwelling unit — 49 of 51 units. But the city's 2021 ADU rules are now outdated against laws like SB 1211, which allows up to eight detached ADUs on multifamily lots. Updating the code could make it simpler and cheaper for homeowners to build them.
Pending ~$7 million encampment resolution grant
The city, county and Chula Vista jointly applied for over $7 million to fund homeless outreach along the I-5 corridor and one street inland; an award decision is pending.
Union Tower affordable apartments completion
The 94-unit Union Tower complex for households earning 30–60% of area median income will hold its ribbon cutting November 10; it includes housing for 24 formerly homeless veterans.
Six city-owned development sites
Council asked for more analysis of developer proposals for six city-owned sites back in May; that work is done and the proposals will soon return for a public decision.
Environmental Policy and Industrial Development
SDSU finished its EPA-funded study of potentially contaminated vacant sites in National City — concentrated on the West Side — and now hopes the city will pursue cleanup grants for city-owned parcels. A new EPA-funded 'BREW' program will train 100 local residents for environmental jobs over five years, starting in January.
Personnel Change
The firefighters' union president praised the fire department's 2% vacancy rate but warned that HR has cycled through four directors in five years and retention is a citywide problem.
Ambulance service contract extension
The city was set to extend its agreement with American Medical Response for basic and advanced life support ambulance transport for another year, keeping existing emergency medical transport in place through August 2027.
BCD LLC v. City of National City
Another active lawsuit against the city was discussed in closed session; no action was announced.
Tidelands Avenue Electric Truck Hub
The Port of San Diego presented its 70-truck electric charging hub at 19th and Tidelands. Most speakers supported it for cleaner air and union jobs; Mayor Morrison pressed hard on lithium battery fire risk and the site being upwind of the dense Westside. Formal council action is expected June 30.
City leadership turnover ends with permanent hires
After roughly ten city manager transitions in four years, the council finally hired a permanent city manager and city attorney — speakers from labor, business, and the dais all welcomed the stability.
Air Pollution and APCD Representation
Multiple speakers blasted Councilmember Bush's May 14 vote against starting an indirect source rule to cut warehouse truck pollution; he defended the vote, citing staff analysis, legal risk and delays to National City's own air filter program.
Overdue FY 2024-25 Audit Report
A resident pressed again for the long-delayed annual audit, which is past its March 31 deadline and needed to answer budget questions.
Estate of Brian Umana lawsuit against National City
The city faces a federal lawsuit brought by the estate of Brian Umana and individual plaintiffs. The Council gathered privately with legal counsel to discuss the case's status and strategy.