San Diego City Wire

Residents had the opportunity to discuss San Diego County's $8.48 billion recommended budget with experts during an open house on Thursday. The event, held at the County Operations Center, featured seven topic stations where attendees could ask questions.

One station provided information on how the budget is compiled, detailing funding sources and mandatory spending on federal and state programs. Other tables focused on priorities such as behavioral health, housing, homelessness, justice reform, public safety, and roads. Visitors could learn about these areas and provide feedback.

The County offers various regional services including food and restaurant inspections, beach and bay water testing, elections, social services, health programs, foster care, and adult protective services. For residents outside the region’s 18 cities in unincorporated areas, the County also provides police and fire protection and maintains parks, libraries, and roads.

A second budget session will be held virtually from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29. This session will include a presentation followed by a moderated comment period. Interested individuals can visit Engage San Diego County for virtual meeting details or to register for language and accessibility services.

Recordings of the session will be available in English and Spanish at Engage San Diego County after the meeting. Comments can also be submitted via email to engage@sdcounty.ca.gov until 5 p.m. on June 13.

For more information on the budget, residents can review an executive summary or the full recommended budget plan online.

Budget hearings are scheduled before the Board of Supervisors at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 4 and at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 6. The Board will deliberate and adopt the budget on June 25 with implementation starting July 1.