UnGovr Words

Board of Supervisors

Board of SupervisorsSeptember 1, 2026

Switch meeting
BodyBoard of Supervisors
MeetingRegular Meeting
Date📅 September 1, 2026

Click any transcript line to jump the video there.

Meeting Summary

  1. PendingQueued for transcription.
  2. AIYou are hereAuto-transcribed and summarized; not yet human-verified.
  3. VerifiedReviewed and corrected by a person.

Present: Desmond, Aguirre, Montgomery-Stebb, Lawson-Reamer

This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details, so verify against the official recording and the transcript.

At a glance

Proclamations

  • The board accepted three proclamations recognizing Millionaires HQ, the Jewish New Year, and Hope on the Hard Road.
  • These recognitions highlighted community service, cultural contributions, and support for families with special needs.

Tijuana River Valley Pollution and Saturn Boulevard Hotspot

  • The board advanced design work for a box-covered bridge at the Saturn Boulevard hotspot to reduce hydrogen sulfide levels.
  • Phase 1 of a Capture and Cleanup Initiative was launched to treat polluted river water on the San Diego side of the border.
  • An ad hoc subcommittee was converted into a standing committee to oversee these efforts.
  • Item 13 passed with one dissenting vote, while Item 14 passed unanimously.

El Capitan Reservoir Boat Launch Ramp Extension

  • The board allocated $2.5 million to the City of San Diego to extend the boat launch ramp at El Capitan Reservoir.
  • The extension aims to maintain recreational access during low water levels required for the reservoir's water supply function.
  • The motion to move the item forward passed unanimously.

Sheriff’s Office Jail Update and Presentation

  • The Sheriff presented updates on healthcare improvements, behavioral health programs, and technology rollouts across seven jails.
  • The board discussed in-custody death trends, CalAIM billing status, and data sharing with the Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board.
  • The item was designated as "Receive and File" without a formal vote.

Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) Ordinance

  • The board debated the voting threshold required to pass CLERB items, with concerns raised about representational diversity and operational delays.
  • A substitute motion to require a fixed minimum of five affirmative votes failed.
  • The original motion to adopt the ordinance requiring a majority of the quorum present passed.

AB 2760 (Prohibiting Wearable Electric Shock Weapons)

  • The board adopted a letter supporting AB 2760, which prohibits law enforcement agencies from using wearable electroshock devices.
  • Supporters cited public safety risks and lack of accountability, while opponents argued the devices are less-lethal de-escalation tools.
  • The motion to adopt the board letter passed.

Resolution Opposing Federal Cuts to Medicaid/Medi-Cal Funding

  • The board adopted a resolution opposing federal cuts to Medicaid and Medi-Cal funding, citing threats to healthcare access for county residents.
  • An amendment was added to address the county's stance on the misuse of public funds and fraud.
  • The motion to adopt the resolution, including the amendment, passed.

East County Economic Development Council Grants

  • The board authorized $300,000 in grants through the East County Economic Development Council to support small businesses.
  • The action leverages $400,000 in federal funds to fill a financing gap for businesses in unincorporated areas and East County cities.
  • The motion passed unanimously.

Opposition to Placement of Sexually Violent Predator in Borrego Springs

  • The board adopted a resolution opposing the placement of a sexually violent predator in Borrego Springs.
  • The board directed staff to support legislation requiring state-run transitional housing rather than neighborhood-based placements.
  • The motion passed unanimously.

Closed Session

  • The board addressed legal matters including a shooting incident involving deputies, a sexual assault case, and other litigation.
  • Public commenters requested transparency and audits regarding the county's handling of these legal defenses.

Full summary

Opening and Proclamations

  • The September 1, 2026, San Diego County Board of Supervisors meeting was called to order. Following a land acknowledgment, roll call, invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance, three proclamations were presented and accepted: 1. Millionaires HQ: Recognizing the business for community service and as an entrepreneurial hub. 2. Rosh Hashanah: Honoring the Jewish New Year and the contributions of the Jewish community to San Diego County. 3. Hope on the Hard Road: Recognizing the organization for its support of families with children who have special needs and the opening of their new Hope Center in Escondido.

Non-Agenda Public Comment

  • The Chair outlined board rules regarding public conduct. Twelve speakers addressed the board via phone on matters not listed on the agenda. Topics included criticism of county events, general grievances regarding government and media, specific allegations concerning county employees and incidents at youth facilities, and support for Assembly Bill 762 regarding disposable vapes. One speaker was issued a warning for disruptive conduct and profanity directed at a specific individual; the speaker forfeited their remaining time. Another speaker was advised that their comments on cannabis were not appropriate for non-agenda comment as the item was scheduled for the consent agenda the following day.

Approval of Minutes

  • Motion: To approve the minutes and statements of proceedings for the sessions of August 18 and 19, 2026.
  • Action: The motion was moved and seconded.
  • Outcome: The motion passed unanimously.

Consent Agenda (Items 1–12)

  • The board reviewed items 1 through 12 for approval via the consent agenda.
  • Comments:
  • Item 2 (Senior Transportation): Vice Chair Montgomery-Stebb emphasized the importance of equitable outreach to rural and communities of color, noting the need for documented grievance procedures and a fully staffed phone line.
  • Item 3 (Child and Family Strengthening Advisory Board): Vice Chair Montgomery-Stebb noted that the funding proposal retained pre-petition legal services, which was a point of discussion in the advisory board.
  • Item 5 (Grand Jury/Probation): Vice Chair Montgomery-Stebb expressed concern over the $1.3 million returned to the county and the Probation Department’s decision to wholly disagree with the grand jury’s recommendation to equip officers with body-worn cameras, suggesting further analysis is needed. Supervisor Anderson also commented on Item 5, acknowledging the department’s existing camera coverage but expressing concern about the department’s refusal to consider body-worn cameras, noting that fixed cameras may not capture close-contact interactions.
  • Item 6: Supervisor Anderson requested that Item 6 be pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion.
  • Public Comment on Consent Agenda:
  • Item 2: A representative from Jewish Family Services thanked the board for restarting the no-cost senior transportation program and highlighted its impact on rider independence.
  • Item 3: A speaker questioned the allocation of funds for child abuse prevention given ongoing concerns about juvenile detention facilities and specific cases.
  • Item 5: Two representatives from the Probation Officers Association stated that the association supports the use of body-worn cameras for transparency and accountability but expressed disappointment in the department’s response. They also raised concerns about staffing shortages and mandatory overtime, urging the board to address these issues alongside transparency initiatives.
  • Item 4 (Employment Agreements): Two employees from Edgemoor Hospital requested a meeting with the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to discuss workplace safety and behavioral health services, emphasizing the need for management accountability and employee support.
  • Phone Comments: Speakers addressed various items, including criticism of the grand jury responses, concerns about Sharp Hospital bonds and overcharging, opposition to contract amendments for employees terminated for moral turpitude, and criticism of the Children’s Trust Fund allocation. One speaker apologized for previous conduct and raised concerns about voter fraud.
  • Motion: To approve the consent agenda (Items 1–12, with Item 6 pulled for discussion).
  • Action: The motion was moved by Vice Chair Montgomery-Stebb and seconded by Supervisor Anderson.
  • Outcome: The motion passed unanimously.

Meeting Schedule

  • The Chair outlined the order of business for the remainder of the day. Due to Sheriff Martinez’s departure at 3:00 PM, Sheriff-related items (6, 18, and 20) were scheduled to be heard consecutively after lunch. The board agreed to proceed with Items 13 and 14, followed by Item 15, then take a lunch break before addressing the Sheriff-related items.

Items 13 and 14: Tijuana River Valley Pollution and Saturn Boulevard Hotspot

  • Supervisor Aguirre introduced the items, which include advancing the design of a box-covered bridge at the Saturn Boulevard hotspot to reduce hydrogen sulfide levels and launching Phase 1 of a Capture and Cleanup Initiative to treat polluted river water on the San Diego side of the border. The items also propose converting an ad hoc subcommittee into a standing committee.
  • Public comment was received from 18 individuals (8 in person, 10 by phone). Supporters, including representatives from the Sierra Club, Surfrider Foundation, YMCA, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, and local residents, urged the board to act locally to address the public health crisis, citing years of beach closures, respiratory issues, and economic impacts. They emphasized the need for local control over solutions rather than relying solely on federal or Mexican government actions. Opponents and critics raised concerns about the cost, the lack of a fixed timeline, the potential for taxpayer burden, and the effectiveness of previous measures such as air purifiers. Some speakers questioned the county’s authority to build infrastructure that they argued should be the responsibility of the state, federal government, or Mexico, and suggested alternative leverage such as water sales to Tijuana.
  • Supervisor Aguirre responded to comments, noting that while pressure on Mexico and federal partners continues, the county cannot wait for external timelines to protect public health. She clarified that the current item is for pre-construction planning to generate options for future funding and construction, and that collaboration with other jurisdictions is intended but not a prerequisite for starting the planning process. Supervisor Anderson expressed support for Item 14 but raised concerns about Item 13, stating it was outside the county’s jurisdiction and preferred a regional coalition approach involving cities and the state. Supervisor Desmond supported the items, emphasizing the immediate health impacts on residents. Supervisor Anderson requested that the votes be taken separately for Items 13 and 14.
  • A motion was made and seconded for both items.
  • Item 13 (Capture and Cleanup Initiative): The motion passed with one supervisor voting no and all other supervisors voting aye.
  • Item 14 (Saturn Boulevard Hotspot): The motion passed unanimously with all supervisors voting aye.

Item 15: El Capitan Reservoir Boat Launch Ramp Extension

  • The item was introduced to support the City of San Diego’s project to extend the boat launch ramp at El Capitan Reservoir. The extension is intended to maintain recreational access during periods of low water levels, which are necessary for the reservoir’s water supply function.
  • Public comment was received from 11 individuals (5 in person, 6 by phone). Speakers, including representatives from the City of San Diego, Friends of the San Diego Lakes, and local residents, expressed support for the project, citing its importance for fishing, boating, and local economic activity. Some comments raised questions about water sales to other regions and the impact on water levels. Other commenters expressed mixed views, with some raising concerns regarding potential water pollution from increased boat traffic and questioning the allocation of funds compared to other infrastructure needs.
  • A Supervisor noted that the reservoir is a vital part of the City of San Diego’s water supply and that fluctuating water levels had rendered the existing boat launch ramp unusable. The proposed action allocates $2.5 million to the City of San Diego to extend the ramp, ensuring year-round usability. The Supervisor thanked the City of San Diego, county staff, and community advocates for their partnership. Another Supervisor emphasized the reservoir’s value as a regional recreational asset and requested colleagues to support the item.
  • Motion: A motion was made to move the item forward and was seconded.
  • Outcome: The motion passed unanimously.

Item 18: Sheriff’s Office Jail Update and Presentation

  • The Sheriff presented an update on jail operations, noting that the Sheriff’s Office operates seven jails housing approximately 3,900 people daily. Key points included:
  • Healthcare Improvements: Implementation of physician-level care at intake at three booking facilities to improve identification of acute and chronic conditions. Pursuit of National Commission on Correctional Healthcare (NCCHC) accreditation, with the first facility expected to meet standards in January 2027.
  • Behavioral Health: Expansion of programs for competency restoration and medication compliance. Partnership with County Behavioral Health Services for continuity of care upon release.
  • In-Custody Deaths: Acknowledgment of past scrutiny and litigation. Reporting of a downward trend in in-custody deaths. Implementation of measures to prevent deaths, including improved intake assessments and withdrawal protocols.
  • Drug Interdiction and Treatment: Implementation of Naloxone distribution, enhanced interdiction programs, and increased Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs.
  • Technology: Rollout of body-worn cameras, continuous glucose monitoring, and smart tablets for the incarcerated population to access commissary, education, and communication services.
  • Future Plans: Recruitment of a Chief of Psychiatry and finalization of the CalAIM billing contract with AmeriChoice, targeted for October 1.

Board Questions and Discussion

  • Supervisors acknowledged the reported decline in in-custody deaths and asked about sustainability metrics. The Sheriff indicated that culture change, investment in staff, and the upcoming Chief of Psychiatry role are key to sustaining improvements.
  • Questions were raised regarding the CalAIM billing contract status. Staff confirmed services will be active on October 1, but the billing contract with AmeriChoice is still being finalized; if not signed, the Sheriff’s Office will handle billing internally.
  • A Supervisor asked about the relationship with the Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) following a report stating that limited data constrained their work. Staff clarified that much of the withheld data was HIPAA-related and that the relationship with CLERB is currently positive, with regular meetings and correspondence.
  • Questions were raised regarding deaths of unconvicted individuals. The Sheriff explained that the highest risk period is the first 10 days, particularly for those withdrawing from substances, and that the Sheriff’s Office focuses on medical needs rather than judicial status.
  • A Supervisor requested quantitative data to support claims of expanded care levels, such as time to physician assessment and medication resumption. Staff explained the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) process and noted that data is being refined and will be included in quarterly reports.
  • Questions were asked about safeguards for incapacitated individuals unable to express medical needs. Staff described multidisciplinary wellness checks, primary care models with assigned nurses per housing floor, and continuous glucose monitoring for diabetics.

Public Comment

  • Commenters expressed a range of opinions. Some supported the improvements in mental health and substance use treatment but called for greater emphasis on prevention. Others criticized the presentation as "propaganda," raised concerns about transparency, and questioned the effectiveness of current programs. One commenter shared a personal account of alleged mistreatment and incompetence proceedings. Another commenter questioned the Sheriff’s Department’s capacity to handle behavioral health issues and the definition of mental disability in the context of incarceration.

Decision

  • The item was designated as "Receive and File." No motion was required for a vote. The board accepted the presentation.

Item 6: Ordinance to Amend Rules and Duties for the Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB)

  • Status: The item was pulled by a Supervisor for discussion.
  • Procedure: The Chair indicated that public comment would be taken first, followed by the Supervisor’s explanation for pulling the item.
  • Public Comment: Several individuals spoke regarding the proposed ordinance changes. Comments included concerns that reducing the voting standard from a majority of all members to a majority of a quorum would allow two districts to control board policy, potentially undermining the board’s representational diversity and authority. Other speakers argued that the current rules, requiring a majority of appointed members, create operational difficulties when attendance is low, leading to delays in case reviews and potential violations of Peace Officer Bill of Rights (POBAR) timelines. One speaker noted that the proposed language aligns with A-74 and Robert’s Rules of Order, which define voting as a majority of the quorum present.
  • Discussion: Supervisors discussed the implications of the voting threshold. Supervisor Anderson expressed concern that lowering the standard would allow two districts to control the board’s decisions, arguing that the board’s expanded authority (including inspections and review of in-custody deaths) requires broader county-wide representation. Supervisor Desmond proposed a substitute motion to set the minimum number of affirmative votes required to pass an item at five, arguing that a higher threshold ensures more members are involved in decisions given the board’s significant power. A CLERB representative explained that under the proposed rule, the number of votes required would fluctuate based on attendance (e.g., 4 votes if 6 members are present, 5 votes if 8 are present), whereas the substitute motion would fix the requirement at 5 votes regardless of attendance. The Chair noted that ensuring appointments and attendance is the responsibility of the Board of Supervisors and suggested that CLERB should communicate vacancies and absences more aggressively to supervisors.
  • Motion and Vote:
  • A substitute motion was made by Supervisor Desmond and seconded by Supervisor Anderson to adopt Item 6 with the amendment that a minimum of five affirmative votes is required to pass an item.
  • Vote Outcome: The substitute motion failed.
  • The original motion to adopt Item 6 as written (requiring a majority of the quorum present) was then voted on.
  • Vote Outcome: The original motion passed.

Item 20: Board Letter Supporting AB 2760 (Prohibiting Wearable Electric Shock Weapons)

  • Sponsor Comments: Supervisors Aguirre and Montgomery-Steppe introduced the item, supporting AB 2760, which would prohibit state and local law enforcement agencies in California from purchasing, possessing, or using wearable electroshock devices (such as shock gloves). They argued that these devices pose significant risks to public safety, lack accountability due to the lack of visible deployment, and are inconsistent with de-escalation standards. They emphasized that the ban should apply to all law enforcement, including federal agencies operating in California, and urged the Governor to sign the bill.
  • Public Comment: Speakers expressed both support and opposition. Supporters, including representatives from labor unions, immigrant rights organizations, and the ACLU, argued that the devices are untested, potentially lethal, and constitute a form of torture or excessive force. They urged the Board to support the bill and urge the Governor to sign it. Opponents argued that the devices are less-lethal de-escalation tools, that the state lacks jurisdiction over federal agencies, and that banning them would leave officers with fewer options than lethal force. Some speakers questioned the legal enforceability of the ban against federal agents and suggested that the resolution was merely symbolic.
  • Discussion: Supervisor Desmond stated that while she views the devices as undesirable, she believes they are less-lethal de-escalation tools and that the state’s restriction on federal agencies would likely be struck down. She voted against the item. Supervisor Montgomery-Steppe clarified that the bill underwent a "gut-and-amend" process to address feedback from county associations, expanding jurisdiction to include animal services and probation departments. The Chair expressed opposition to the devices, comparing them to fictional weapons, and supported the ban.
  • Motion and Vote:
  • A motion was made by Supervisor Aguirre and seconded by Supervisor Desmond to adopt the Board Letter supporting AB 2760.
  • Vote Outcome: The motion passed.

Item 16: Resolution Opposing Federal Cuts to Medicaid/Medi-Cal Funding

  • Public Comment: Speakers, including parents of children with special needs, IHSS providers, and labor union representatives, spoke in support of the resolution. They described the potential impact of federal funding cuts on families, specifically highlighting the risks to medically fragile children who rely on In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) and Medi-Cal. Speakers argued that the cuts would force families to choose between care and financial stability, potentially leading to institutionalization or loss of life. They urged the Board to oppose the cuts and demand the release of withheld federal funds. Other comments included concerns about the adequacy of the proposed resolution, allegations of fraud and abuse within the system, and criticism of federal policies. One speaker shared a personal account of relying on IHSS, CalFresh, and Medi-Cal during a period of illness.
  • Motion and Discussion: The Chair moved to adopt the item. The Vice Chair seconded the motion.
  • Amendment: Supervisor Anderson proposed a friendly amendment to add language regarding the county’s stance on the misuse of public funds and fraud, suggesting it be placed in or after paragraph 10. The Chair agreed to consider the amendment.
  • Board Discussion:
  • The Chair explained the context of the resolution, citing federal policy changes (HR 1) and the withholding of over $2 billion in federal Medicaid funding from California. The Chair stated these actions threaten to leave 150,000–170,000 additional residents in San Diego County without healthcare and impact hospital staffing and services. The Chair emphasized that healthcare access is a fundamental right and urged support for the resolution.
  • Supervisor Anderson reiterated the need to address fraud while supporting constituents in need, stating the amendment would help clarify the board’s position.
  • Supervisor Geary supported the item, noting the disproportionate impact on older adults and those with disabilities, and described the federal actions as politically motivated.
  • Supervisor Desmond opposed the item, arguing that the primary changes involve work requirements and bi-annual certification for able-bodied adults. The Supervisor stated that funding is not the issue, cited state spending on non-citizens, and argued that the requirements are reasonable and fair. The Supervisor stated they would vote against the item but supported the proposed amendment.
  • The Vice Chair supported the item, sharing a personal experience with the IHSS program and arguing that the federal administration’s characterization of beneficiaries as lazy is inaccurate. The Vice Chair emphasized the importance of helping neighbors and supporting the safety net.
  • The Chair accepted Supervisor Anderson’s amendment, noting agreement on the importance of preventing fraud, particularly by wealthy individuals and corporations.
  • Supervisor Desmond responded, clarifying that their opposition was based on ensuring eligibility requirements are met and that the system is efficient, not a lack of desire to help those in need.
  • Vote: The motion to adopt the resolution, including the amendment, was put to a vote. The motion passed.

Item 17: Promoting Economic Development by Authorizing $300,000 Grants at East County Economic Development Council

  • Public Comment: Speakers addressed the board regarding the proposed revolving loan fund. Comments included questions about the source of funds, eligibility restrictions, and due diligence processes. One speaker, representing the East County Economic Development Council (ECDC), explained that the fund would fill a gap for small businesses unable to access conventional financing, leveraging $400,000 in federal Economic Development Administration funds. The speaker noted the fund would serve communities including Santee, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, and El Cajon, and that repaid loans would replenish the fund for future use.
  • Board Discussion:
  • Supervisor Anderson introduced the item, noting it was a partnership with the Vice Chair. The Supervisor stated the action would draw down $400,000 in federal funding to support small and emergency businesses in East County. The Supervisor cited past successes of similar programs, including job creation and retention, and noted that the county was backfilling a funding gap left by a city that withdrew support.
  • The Vice Chair seconded the motion, highlighting the need for flexible capital for small and micro-businesses to invest in operations and job growth. The Vice Chair noted the fund would leverage federal support and benefit unincorporated areas and cities in East County.
  • Supervisor Anderson added that the loans would go to small, family-oriented businesses.
  • Vote: The motion was put to a vote. The motion passed unanimously.

Item 19: Opposition to Placement of Sexually Violent Predator in Borrego Springs

  • Motion and Discussion: Supervisor Desmond moved to adopt the item, which included three recommendations:
  • 1. Waive Board Policy A72. 2. Send a letter to Judge Theodore Weathers and the Director of the California Department of State Hospitals detailing the county’s opposition to the placement of John Phillips in Borrego Springs. 3. Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to support legislation modifying the conditional release program for sexually violent predators to place participants in state-run transitional housing rather than neighborhood-based housing.
  • Supervisor Desmond stated that the state is seeking to place another sexually violent predator in Borrego Springs, where seven others are already located. The Supervisor argued that unincorporated rural communities are becoming dumping grounds for these placements, that law enforcement presence is thin, and that the board should advocate for state-run housing instead of community-based placements.
  • Public Comment: Speakers generally supported the item, expressing concern about public safety in rural communities and the disproportionate burden placed on unincorporated areas. Some speakers called for stricter measures, including state custody or execution, while others emphasized the need for systemic reform and fair distribution of placements. One speaker noted that the properties housing the predators are owned by the same couple and rented at rates significantly higher than market value.
  • Vote: The motion was put to a vote. The motion passed unanimously.

Item 21: Closed Session Matters

  • Public Comment: Speakers addressed the board regarding the closed session agenda items, which included legal matters such as a shooting incident involving deputies, a sexual assault case, and other litigation. Comments included requests for transparency, audits of county departments, and criticism of the county’s handling of legal defenses and public safety issues.

Adjournment and Memorial Remarks

  • A member delivered remarks honoring Dolly Parton, noting her contributions to literacy through the Imagination Library, her collaboration with California leaders to expand the program statewide, and her support for LGBTQ+ inclusion and marriage equality. The remarks concluded with a statement honoring her legacy on behalf of the County of San Diego.

Recess

  • The Chair announced that the board would proceed to close session and take a recess until the following day (Wednesday) at 9:00 AM. The Chair specified a break duration of approximately 12–13 minutes, with the session resuming at 5:15 PM.