San Diego City Wire

San Diego County's financial experts presented an update on the county's fiscal outlook at the Board of Supervisors meeting. The discussion set the stage for the upcoming budget, which will be effective from July 1. Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton emphasized that releasing a balanced budget would require difficult decisions affecting service levels and existing contracts.

Shelton stated, "To release a balanced budget, we’ll have to make tough decisions now – choices that will result in changes to our level of services and cuts to existing contracts." She added, "But we do not see this as just about balancing numbers – it’s about making tough choices today to ensure that the County can continue to invest in the future for our communities."

The December budget snapshot indicated a $138.5 million funding gap for fiscal year 2025-26 due to slowing sales tax revenue and escalating costs for current programs alongside new funding requests. To address this gap, county staff are reducing costs, finding efficiencies, and streamlining programs and services. Mandated services will receive priority funding while addressing regional needs.

Staff are also collaborating with the Board of Supervisors and the public for input during the budget process. San Diego County is responsible for various programs across its unincorporated areas and 18 incorporated cities, including law enforcement, roads, building permits, animal shelters, parks, libraries, emergency preparedness, criminal prosecution and detention facilities.

Half of the county's budget comes from other government agencies with specified uses; the remainder largely consists of property taxes and fees for services. This portion is known as general purpose revenue which can be allocated at the county's discretion.

The presentation concluded with commendations from Shelton for staff efforts in addressing community needs while implementing innovative solutions. Residents are encouraged to participate in shaping the budget by visiting Engage San Diego County to take surveys or rank priorities through March 28. Feedback will inform development of the recommended budget released on May 1.

Residents can share thoughts online until June 12 or participate in-person at open houses or virtual meetings. Public hearings are scheduled for June 3 and June 9 before final deliberations on June 24.

For more information on meetings or translation services visit Clerk of the Board’s website or call 619-531-5434. Additional details can be found on the county’s budget website.