Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Diego County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues with critical priority
Housing for All Framework and Innovative Housing Trust Fund
The county adopted a new inclusionary housing ordinance requiring market-rate housing developers to include affordable units or pay in-lieu fees. The policy aims to address severe shortfalls in housing for very low-income families across unincorporated areas.
El Niño and Severe Weather Emergency Preparedness
County departments presented comprehensive readiness plans for the forecasted strong El Niño winter, detailing culvert cleaning, emergency shelters, and outreach to flood-prone neighborhoods following the 2024 disaster.
Starlight Solar Project Approval in Boulevard
A massive solar and lithium battery storage facility was approved in Boulevard, sparking intense debate over rural industrialization, wildfire risks, and proximity to homes and schools.
Tijuana River Valley Pollution Emergency
Decades of untreated sewage flowing across the border have closed South Bay beaches for over 1,700 consecutive days and created toxic air quality issues for residents. The board approved local capture-and-cleanup initiatives and infrastructure design to provide immediate relief.
Fiscal Years 2026-2028 Recommended Operational Plan
The county adopted a $9.15 billion budget focusing on public safety, behavioral health, and safety net services while managing federal funding changes.
Health & Safety Services Initiative Petition Measure
An initiative proposing a half-cent sales tax to fund health, safety, and sewage cleanup will appear on the November ballot.
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) Policy and Housing Impacts
The county is evaluating how to manage vehicle miles traveled regulations without placing unfair cost burdens on new housing development in unincorporated areas. While state rules push for reduced driving, developers and residents are concerned about high mitigation fees and housing affordability.
Behavioral Health Services Act Three-Year Plan & Youth Funding
The county adopted its $1.6 billion mental health and substance use plan under Proposition 1, but child advocates argued that youth services are underfunded compared to other large counties.
San Pasquale Academy Future and Foster Youth Services
The county considered closing the historic San Pasquale Academy residential foster campus due to declining enrollment and state policy shifts toward family-based care. After intense public outcry from students, alumni, and community leaders, the board voted to pause the closure and demand a long-term plan.
Behavioral Health Wellness Campus Infrastructure
The county secured a $99.5 million state grant to build a comprehensive behavioral health wellness campus in the Midway District, adding 210 new treatment slots.
Expansion of 'No Shots Fired' Violence Prevention Program
The board approved $250,000 annually to expand Shafat Outreach's 'No Shots Fired' violence prevention program into Spring Valley. The program uses credible messengers with lived experience to mediate conflicts and mentor at-risk youth.