Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Bernardino public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in public safety with medium priority
Animal control underfunding
Speaker Lidia Zavala challenged the city's shelter data and noted animal services spending has grown from $2.3 million to $9.7 million in five years, demanding a plan and accountability.
Servicios de animales y crisis de población de animales sin hogar
Varios comentaristas describieron un sistema de refugios sobrecargado: se dijo a los vecinos que no alimenten o agüecen a los perros callejeros en calor de tres dígitos, las llamadas fuera de horario no son respondidas, y el presupuesto de refugios se ha duplicado a $10 million. Los residentes pidieron un programa de esterilización financiado y mejores horas de teléfono de emergencia.
Liquor license concentration near Highland Avenue
The commission weighed whether an already alcohol-saturated census tract needs one more full-liquor bar. The applicant argued duplicate caterer's permits overstate the count and volunteered a security guard on weekend nights; the commission approved it 4-1 with inspections.
Animal Shelter Access and Overpopulation
Residents pushed for a new animal shelter, calling the current facility unsafe, and welcomed new Animal Services Director Jasmine Glover.
Animal Services Practices and Spay/Neuter Funding
Speakers alleged incomplete death records at the animal shelter and questioned the use of roughly $1.2 million in vehicle and spay/neuter funding, calling for an audit and answers on empty kennels.
Police substation at Inland Center Mall extended five years
The Inland Center Mall police substation lease was extended to January 2032, and the council asked staff for a future report on possible substations in the north end of the city.
Detached Commercial Trailer Parking Ban
A new ordinance targets semi-trailers parked without their trucks in commercial and residential areas, letting residents report them to police dispatch with photo evidence and get a response within 24 hours.
Allegations against Police Chief Goodman
Multiple speakers described family members killed by San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies, demanding answers, badge numbers, and body camera footage they say have not been provided.
Fire Station 222 Expansion at Bobby Vega Park
The county is expanding Firehouse 222, and the city authorized due diligence to support the project at Bobby Vega Park — part of broader county fire investment in the city.
Crime Statistics
San Bernardino’s crime rate has hit a 25-year low, according to the police chief. That’s a big win for residents and a bragging point for the department—though the city will still need to keep tracking the numbers.