Board of Supervisors — 2026-09-15

Opening and Proclamations

• The Board issued six proclamations recognizing Hunger Awareness Month, Andrew Strong Day, Latinx Heritage Month, CETI’s Universidad Day, Biodiversity Month, and San Marcos Prevention Coalition Day.
• Representatives from local organizations, including the San Diego Food Bank, Mana de San Diego, and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, accepted the proclamations.

CLERB Ordinance Amendment

• The Board considered an ordinance amending the rules and duties for the Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB).
• Public comment included concerns that proposed changes would weaken oversight capabilities and lower the vote threshold for passing motions.
• The Board voted to adopt the staff recommendation, with one supervisor voting no and all others voting aye.

Tijuana Sewage Crisis Economic Impact Study

• Staff presented preliminary findings estimating annual economic losses between $125.6 million and $503.5 million due to the sewage crisis.
• The study recommended improving public awareness, strengthening the South Bay’s image, and designing direct assistance programs for businesses.
• The Board received the item for the file without a formal motion, acknowledging the data as a call to action for state and federal partners.

In-Housing of Nursing Services

• The Board considered bringing nursing services in-house at the South Region Public Health Center and Polinsky Children’s Center to save approximately $1.8 million to $2 million annually.
• Supporters cited improved continuity and coordination of care, while opponents raised concerns regarding safety and management at Polinsky Children’s Center.
• The motion to pass the item was approved unanimously.

Wage Theft Enforcement

• The Board discussed strengthening the Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement to proactively investigate wage theft and recover unpaid wages.
• Staff noted that over $29 million in unpaid wage theft judgments had accumulated since 2017, with 87% of hourly workers surveyed experiencing wage theft.
• The proposal aims to add two dedicated enforcement positions to improve investigation and judgment collection.
• The motion to strengthen enforcement was approved.

Deceptive Motorcycle Marketing

• The Board considered directing County Counsel to assess enforcement action against retailers marketing electric motorcycles as e-bikes.
• Supporters cited a recent fatality and increased trauma incidents, while opponents argued for waiting on state legislation (SB 1167) and education efforts.
• The motion to pursue assessment of deceptive marketing practices was approved.

El Niño and Severe Weather Preparedness

• Staff presented preparedness measures for a forecasted "very strong" El Niño, including updated emergency plans, expanded training, and pre-established resources for food and housing.
• The Board discussed workforce readiness, infrastructure maintenance, and community outreach strategies for high-risk areas.
• The Board unanimously approved the staff recommendation and directed the CAO to return with a specific plan for unincorporated areas impacted by the 2024 floods.

Grossmont Ambulance Contract Transfer

• The Board considered transferring the Grossmont Ambulance Operating Area contract from Grossmont Hospital Corporation to the San Diego County Fire Protection District.
• The transfer includes an interim plan to manage the existing contract and initiate a competitive solicitation for a future provider.
• The Board unanimously approved the transfer and the authorization for a competitive solicitation.

Aging Roadmap Update

• Staff presented the annual update on the Aging Roadmap, highlighting progress in health, social participation, and support for over 31,000 family caregivers.
• The Board discussed challenges facing the In-Home Supportive Services program regarding potential Medi-Cal eligibility changes.
• The report was received as an update without a formal adoption motion.

Community Resilience Centers Grant

• The Board authorized a co-applicant partnership with PANA for the California Strategic Growth Council’s Community Resilience Centers Implementation Grant.
• The project, known as the Global Village, includes affordable housing and civic space designed to serve as a regional emergency hub for refugee and immigrant communities.
• The motion to approve the grant application was passed unanimously.

Closed Session

• Public comment was taken on matters scheduled for closed session, including existing litigation, anticipated litigation, and labor negotiations.
• Speakers addressed various legal cases, including personal injury and wrongful death claims, as well as concerns regarding departmental audits and case handling.

Opening and Proclamations

• The meeting was called to order by Chair Lawson-Reamer. Following a land acknowledgment, invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance, the Board issued six proclamations: 1. Hunger Awareness Month: Proclaimed by Chair Lawson-Reamer; accepted by Chris Castillo of the Jacobs and Cushman San Diego Food Bank. 2. Andrew Strong Day: Proclaimed by Vice Chair Montgomery-Stepp; honoring Andrew Strong’s service to the county. 3. Latinx Heritage Month: Proclaimed by Chair Pro Tem Aguirre and Vice Chair Montgomery-Stepp; accepted by representatives from Mana de San Diego, Chicano Federation, Inequi, and Platicando con la gente. 4. CETI’s Universidad Day: Proclaimed by Chair Pro Tem Aguirre; accepted by Dr. Fernando Leon Garcia of CETI’s Universidad. 5. Biodiversity Month: Proclaimed by Supervisor Anderson; accepted by Nadine Lamburski of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. 6. San Marcos Prevention Coalition Day: Proclaimed by Supervisor Desmond; accepted by Casey Strang of the San Marcos Prevention Coalition.

Non-Agenda Public Comment (Initial)

• The Board heard from four in-person speakers and five phone callers on matters not listed on the agenda. Topics included allegations of corruption in Superior Court Department 1, general criticisms of government spending and policies, concerns regarding cigarette and vape waste, objections to green energy policies and biodiversity protections, and concerns regarding the socially equitable cannabis program and planning group input.

Approval of Minutes

• Motion: To approve the minutes for the sessions of September 1 and September 2, 2026, and the concurrent special district meetings of the San Diego County Fire Protection District for June 24 and June 25, 2026.
• Action: A motion was made and seconded.
• Outcome: The motion passed unanimously.

Consent Agenda (Items 1–15 and Fire Protection Item 24)

• Discussion: Vice Chair Montgomery-Stepp commented on Item 10 (Promenade Apartments in Hillcrest), noting it unlocks private capital for affordable housing and includes supportive services. Chair Pro Tem Aguirre commented on Item 3 (Emergency Operations Plan update), acknowledging lessons learned from the January 2024 floods, and on Item 2 (Fire Protection District matters), thanking first responders. She also commented on Item 4 (Safe Routes to School), noting its importance for childhood health.
• Pull Request: Supervisor Anderson requested that Item 13 be pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion.
• Public Comment: The Board heard from two in-person speakers and one phone caller regarding consent agenda items. Speakers addressed property taxes, refugee support services, children’s services, emergency operations plans, and Cal Fire partnerships. One speaker expressed support for the Cal Fire and San Diego County Fire Protection District partnership.
• Status: The consent agenda, with Item 13 pulled, remains pending final vote following the completion of public comment and the separate discussion of Item 13.

Consent Agenda Items 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 14, and 15

• Public comment was received on several consent agenda items.
• Item 5 (California Children’s Services Program): Speakers expressed support for connecting children with health coverage and case management. Some speakers advocated for increased investment in prevention, specifically regarding substance use and mental health, and requested that the county track data on substance-related incidents to inform prevention strategies. Others expressed opposition to the program, citing concerns about government intervention in families and questioning the efficacy of the funding.
• Item 6 (Caltrans Grant for Safe Routes to School): One speaker supported the grant but urged the board to address drug-impaired driving by removing marijuana billboards and prohibiting marijuana lounges. Another speaker supported the program, emphasizing the need for resources in unincorporated areas and expressing concern about the proximity of marijuana cultivation businesses to schools.
• Other Items: Comments were received on Items 1, 4, 7, 10, 14, and 15. Speakers raised concerns regarding competency restoration procedures, electric vehicle reliability, refugee resettlement costs, housing developments, board appointments, and the length of attached documents. One speaker questioned the location of state hospitals for patients and the accountability within the system.

Consent Agenda Item 13 (Pulled from Consent)

• The board voted to pull Item 13 from the consent agenda for individual consideration.
• Motion: Vice-Chair Montgomery moved to pull Item 13 from the consent agenda.
• Second: Chair Pro Tem Aguirre seconded the motion.
• Vote: The motion passed unanimously.

Item 13: Adoption of Ordinance to Amend Rules and Duties for the Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB)

• The board considered the second reading of an ordinance to amend the rules and regulations for the CLERB.
• Public Comment: Nine individuals spoke on the item.
• Opponents of the ordinance argued that the proposed changes weaken CLERB’s oversight capabilities. Specific concerns included lowering the vote threshold for passing motions from a majority of all members to a majority of a quorum, and conditioning the duty to inspect detention facilities on the absence of jurisdiction by other agencies. Speakers argued that juvenile facilities should be included in inspection mandates and that the current rules allow for summary dismissal of cases lacking jurisdiction or cooperation.
• One speaker raised unrelated concerns regarding election laws and federal immigration laws.
• One speaker supported the item, stating it aligns with previous agreements.
• Board Discussion: Supervisor Anderson stated they did not need a presentation and were ready to vote.
• Motion: Vice-Chair Montgomery moved to adopt the staff recommendation.
• Second: Chair Pro Tem Aguirre seconded the motion.
• Vote: The motion passed. One supervisor voted no; all other supervisors present voted aye.

Item 16: Draft Economic Impact Study and Recommendations on the Tijuana Sewage Crisis

• Staff presented preliminary findings from an economic impact study commissioned by the board and conducted by Eco Northwest.
• Presentation: The study estimated annual economic losses in the region between $125.6 million and $503.5 million, with a 20-year cumulative impact projected between $1.9 billion and $7.9 billion. Findings included reduced business starts, decreased visitor spending, lower transit occupancy tax revenues, and a four-percentage-point decrease in school attendance in impacted areas. Property values in Imperial Beach were found to be slightly higher than control areas, attributed to substitution effects due to affordability. Recommendations included improving public awareness, strengthening the South Bay’s image, designing direct assistance programs for businesses, and continuing advocacy for a permanent solution.
• Public Comment: Eleven individuals spoke on the item.
• Supporters emphasized the need for data to hold state, federal, and Mexican partners accountable and to justify further investment in cleanup efforts. One speaker representing a labor union supported the item, noting the impact on frontline workers.
• Opponents criticized the study as incomplete, redundant, or a delay tactic. Some speakers argued that the county should focus on holding Mexico accountable for the sewage flow rather than conducting further studies. Others questioned the methodology and the use of AI in the analysis.
• Board Discussion: Supervisors acknowledged the economic data as a "call to action" and emphasized the need to present these figures to state and federal partners to secure aid and support permanent fixes. They noted the disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
• Action: The item was received for the file. No motion was made.

Item 17: In-Housing of Nursing Services at South Region Public Health Center and Polinsky Children’s Center

• The board considered a board letter to bring two nursing service contracts in-house.
• Board Discussion: Supervisors explained that the move would save approximately $1.8 million to $2 million annually. They noted that the South Region Public Health Center is the only one of six regional centers using a contractor for immunizations and TB testing, and that bringing services in-house would improve coordination of care for children at Polinsky Children’s Center. Rady’s Children’s Hospital, the current contractor at Polinsky, stated it would not pursue renewal.
• Public Comment: Eleven individuals spoke on the item.
• Supporters, including a labor union representative, argued that in-housing services would improve continuity, accountability, and coordination of care, particularly for vulnerable children.
• Opponents raised concerns about the safety and abuse allegations at Polinsky Children’s Center, questioning the board’s ability to provide safe care. Some speakers argued that the move was a cost-saving measure rather than a quality improvement and expressed distrust of the county’s management of children’s facilities.
• Motion: Chair Pro Tem Aguirre moved to pass the item.
• Second: Supervisor Anderson seconded the motion.
• Vote: The motion passed unanimously.

Other Business / CAL FIRE Partnership

• The transcript concludes with remarks regarding the partnership between CAL FIRE and the County of San Diego. Speakers highlighted the county’s investment in fire protection, including a nearly $20 million capital improvement program for a retardant mixing plant and the acquisition of a Firehawk helicopter. They noted that CAL FIRE has been a partner for over 1.7 million acres and that the county has invested over $1 billion in fire protection and emergency medical services since 2008.

Item 18: Strengthening Wage Theft Enforcement to Recover Stolen Wages and Protect Working Families

• Public Comment: The Clerk noted 20 requests to speak (12 in person, 8 by phone) and three e-comments (two in support, one neutral). Several in-person speakers, including representatives from the Filipino Workers Center and the Center on Policy Initiatives, expressed support for strengthening the Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement (OLSE) to proactively investigate wage theft and recover unpaid wages. One speaker cited personal experiences of unpaid labor. Phone callers included mixed perspectives: some supported the measure, citing the need for accountability and the high volume of unpaid judgments; others opposed it, arguing it was a duplication of state and federal responsibilities, criticizing the board’s management, or questioning the necessity of additional county resources.
• Board Discussion:
• The presenting supervisor emphasized that over $29 million in unpaid wage theft judgments had accumulated in San Diego County since 2017. The proposal aims to add two dedicated enforcement positions to improve investigation, case development, and judgment collection. The supervisor noted that 87% of hourly workers surveyed experienced wage theft, while nearly 90% did not know where to report it.
• A seconding supervisor supported the motion, highlighting the impact of unpaid wages on families and the need to protect responsible businesses from unfair competition.
• One supervisor opposed the measure, stating that wage enforcement is a state and federal responsibility, not a county one. This supervisor argued that staffing levels should be determined by the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and departments, not the board, and noted a lack of constituent requests for expansion.
• Another supervisor expressed support, noting that OLSE had already recovered over $500,000 for workers since its establishment in 2021.
• A questioning supervisor raised concerns about the implementation timeline, specifically asking if the board would review new policies before implementation. The OLSE Director explained that the board letter includes a 120-day report-back requirement. The Director clarified that the proposal involves enhancing existing programs and enforcing existing laws rather than creating new ones. The Director stated that OLSE works closely with the State Labor Commissioner to avoid duplicating cases and that the enhancements focus on improving the collection of existing judgments and assisting residents in current disputes. The Director offered to hold town halls and community forums to explain the enhancements.
• Motion and Vote: A motion was made and seconded. The motion passed.

Item 19: Taking Deceptive Retailers to Court for Marketing Motorcycles to Kids as E-Bikes

• Public Comment: The Clerk noted eight requests to speak (one in person, seven by phone) and two e-comments (one in support, one in opposition).
• The in-person speaker opposed the measure, arguing that the board was engaging in "micromanagement" and criticizing the board’s handling of other issues.
• Phone callers presented varied views. One caller supported the measure but suggested the board should also address other dangerous products marketed to children, such as high-potency THC products. Another caller opposed the measure, arguing that parents should be responsible for understanding what they are buying and that the county should not sue retailers. Another caller supported the measure, citing the danger of high-speed e-motorcycles to children. One caller opposed the measure, suggesting that education and state legislation (SB 1167) should be pursued first rather than litigation.
• One speaker was issued a warning for remarks deemed not pertinent to the item and subsequently forfeited their remaining time.
• Board Discussion:
• The presenting supervisor stated that the item aims to hold accountable retailers who market electric motorcycles as e-bikes, citing a recent fatality involving a 14-year-old. The supervisor noted that e-bike trauma incidents have increased significantly, with over 500 annually in one emergency room. The proposal directs the County Counsel to assess the need for enforcement action or litigation against deceptive marketers.
• A supporting supervisor emphasized that parents should not have to become vehicle experts to keep children safe and that marketing electric motorcycles as bicycles conceals serious risks.
• An opposing supervisor stated that while public safety is a priority, pursuing litigation as a first step would be premature. This supervisor cited SB 1167, a bipartisan state bill pending before the Governor, which would reclassify e-motorcycles and prevent them from being sold as e-bikes. This supervisor advocated for education and waiting for the state bill to be signed before considering litigation.
• Motion and Vote: A motion was made and seconded. The motion passed.

Item 20: Receive a Presentation on the County of San Diego’s El Nino and Severe Weather Preparedness and Take Action to Strengthen Community Preparedness

• Staff Presentation:
• County staff presented information on preparations for a forecasted "very strong" El Nino event, which is expected to bring wetter-than-normal conditions to Southern California.
• The presentation highlighted potential impacts, including increased flooding risk in low-lying areas and mapped floodplains, higher sea levels (6–13 inches), larger waves, increased landslide risk (especially after back-to-back storms), and stronger winds.
• Staff outlined improvements made following the 2024 floods, including the establishment of a cross-departmental steering committee with nine work groups.
• Specific preparedness actions mentioned include:
• Updating emergency plans and procedures.
• Expanding countywide training exercises.
• Establishing a "three-deep" staffing model for critical Emergency Operations Center positions.
• Pre-establishing resources for food delivery (Uber Eats), transport (Uber), and temporary housing (contracts with Terra Tech and others).
• Increasing staffing for community engagement and strengthening relationships with community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, and tribal nations.
• Enhancing the "Alert San Diego" system to allow for address-specific alerts, multilingual information, and accessible formats.
• The Severe Weather Preparedness Task Force, comprising 21 county departments and partners, is focusing on two main areas: county readiness (workforce, infrastructure, essential services) and community readiness (ensuring residents have essential information and resources).
• The presentation was interrupted briefly by the Chair asking a staff member to project their voice. The transcript ends before the presentation concludes or any board discussion/vote occurs.

Agenda Item: Severe Weather Preparedness and El Niño Response (Continuation)

Presentation and Discussion

• Staff presented an overview of county preparedness efforts, including workforce training, continuity of operations plans, and regional coordination with cities, tribal nations, and state/federal agencies. Key points included:
• Workforce: Over 1,200 employees have volunteered for specific operational roles and received training. A "just-in-time" training model is available for additional staff.
• Infrastructure: General Services, Parks and Recreation, and Public Works are preparing facilities, clearing drains, staging pumps/sandbags, and maintaining backup generators. Public Works maintains nearly 2,000 miles of roads and inspects approximately 20,000 storm drains and 1,900 open channel drains annually.
• Community Outreach: The Office of Emergency Services (OES) is using LiveWell San Diego, Community Health Workers, and other trusted networks to disseminate information. Specific outreach is being targeted to high-flood-risk areas, older adults, and individuals with disabilities.
• Resources: A new El Niño resource page has been launched on Alert San Diego. Sandbag distribution sites are available across unincorporated communities.
• Recommendations: Staff recommended the Board receive the presentation and direct the Chief Administrative Officer to develop an enterprise-wide severe weather community preparedness resource hub and engagement strategy.

Public Comment

• Eight members of the public spoke (one in person, seven by phone). Comments included:
• Criticism of the county’s preparedness efforts, alleging intentional neglect and questioning the utility of a new resource hub.
• Concerns about the credibility of county communications and references to past incidents (e.g., 2024 floods, hurricane warnings).
• Suggestions for local actions, such as cleaning neighborhood storm drains and building a wall in the Tijuana River Channel.
• Questions regarding the cost of ambulance services and the identity of the current provider (AMR).

Board Discussion

• Vice Chair Montgomery-Step: Asked about the "Incident Management Team" staffing model and regional coordination decision-making processes. Staff explained the Incident Management Team consists of three trained teams for rotation and that the EOC director makes decisions through a policy group. The Vice Chair also asked about communication alternatives if internet/cell service fails; staff cited partnerships with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and LiveWell San Diego. The Vice Chair noted that staff identified 18 maintenance issues in Spring Valley and Casa de Oro during a recent canvass, which were addressed. The Vice Chair expressed a desire to reduce the mobilization timeframe for resource centers from 72 hours to 48 hours.
• Chair Pro Tem Aguirre: Mentioned Imperial Beach as a pilot site for Scripps Institution of Oceanography coastal flooding models and suggested pursuing a similar model for the Tijuana River. Asked about coordination with the City of San Diego and transportation plans for residents without vehicles. Staff explained that the City of San Diego has integrated its emergency management under the Fire Department and that the county supports the city through mutual aid and state/federal escalation. Staff also outlined plans for water rescue, MTA coordination, and Red Cross shelters for stranded residents.
• Supervisor Desmond: Expressed confidence in the county’s response to the 2024 floods but noted that the City of San Diego’s deferred maintenance led to significant flooding, resulting in a $34 million county bailout. Hoped the city would be better prepared this time.

Motion and Vote

• Motion: Vice Chair Montgomery-Step moved to receive the report and adopt the staff recommendation, with an additional recommendation to direct the Chief Administrative Officer to return to the Board on October 6th with a plan for El Niño preparation in unincorporated areas impacted by the January 2024 floods. The additional recommendation included:
• 1. A one-page summary of lessons learned and operational changes. 2. Current conditions and maintenance schedules for nine specific drainage infrastructure locations. 3. A response plan for the first 24 hours of an El Niño event (including website updates, alerts, and employee deployment). 4. Plans to assist individuals/families without financial means to prepare for flooding.
• Clarification: Staff clarified that shelters can be stood up in 6–8 hours, while local assistance centers take 24–72 hours. Staff emphasized that they do not wait to respond and have 23 community emergency response teams ready.
• Vote: The motion passed unanimously.
• ***

Agenda Items 21 and 25: Grossmont Ambulance Operating Area (AOA) Contract Transfer and Competitive Solicitation

Presentation

• Staff from County Fire presented a request to: 1. Transfer the ambulance services contract for the Grossmont AOA (encompassing La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Rancho San Diego, Mount Helix, Spring Valley, Casa de Oro, Granite Hills, and La Presa) from the Grossmont Hospital Corporation to the San Diego County Fire Protection District. 2. Authorize a competitive solicitation for a future ambulance contract.

Key Details

• Background: The Grossmont Hospital Corporation has managed the AOA since 1979 (via Grossmont Hospital District). The current contract with the private provider (American Medical Response/AMR) expires in 2027.
• Rationale: The Grossmont Hospital Corporation has indicated a desire to end its management role. The county has not reviewed the service model since 1979.
• Interim Plan: Transfer the existing contract to County Fire, which will manage it. Dispatching will transition to Heartland Communications. The contract will be amended to address oversight, quality improvement, and community engagement based on stakeholder feedback.
• Long-Term Plan: Initiate a competitive solicitation for a new ambulance provider. An ambulance deployment study will be expanded to include the Grossmont AOA to determine optimal ambulance numbers, locations, and response times.
• Stakeholder Input: County Fire engaged with Heartland Fire and Rescue, San Miguel Fire and Rescue, Sharp Grossmont, Grossmont Healthcare District, and UCSD East Hospital. Priorities identified include maintaining first responder agreements, transitioning dispatch, and ensuring AOA funds are used within the AOA.
• Fiscal Impact: No change to ambulance rates or fiscal impact on first responder agreements during the interim period.

Public Comment

• Seven members of the public spoke (two in person, five by phone). Comments included:
• Andy Lawler (San Miguel Fire & Rescue Chief): Expressed concern about oversight and the need for protections for residents in East County. Requested that any new funding for personnel be directed to existing district staff rather than creating duplication. Emphasized the critical nature of first responder agreements for district revenue.
• Other Speakers: Raised concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the new provider, the cost of ambulance services, and the potential for increased fees. Some questioned the legality of the previous monopoly and the identity of the new provider.

Board Discussion

• Chair Pro Tem Aguirre: Asked for clarification on the new services and fees associated with the transfer. Noted that San Miguel Fire and Rescue had concerns about the lack of shared details.
• Other Supervisors: Expressed support for the transfer to County Fire to ensure continuity of service and better oversight.

Motion and Vote

• Motion: The Board moved to approve the transfer of the Grossmont AOA ambulance contract from the Grossmont Hospital Corporation to the San Diego County Fire Protection District and to authorize the competitive solicitation for a future contract.
• Vote: The transcript ends before the vote outcome for this item is recorded.

Item 21: San Miguel Fire Protection District / County Fire Coordination

• Discussion: Christopher Pierce, Director of Division 4 in the San Miguel Fire Protection District, spoke in opposition to the item as presented, requesting that San Diego County Fire work in good faith with the district to address concerns before a vote. Supervisor Anderson requested clarification on four specific issues raised by the San Miguel Fire Protection District: preserving the existing first responder system, transitioning dispatch to Heartland Communications, directing training and oversight funding to local agencies, and ensuring County Fire does not compete for the Zone 1 contract.
• Response: Director Collins (County Fire) addressed the four issues through the Chair. He stated that during the interim period, ambulance rates and first responder agreements would remain unchanged. He confirmed support for transitioning dispatch from AMR to Heartland Communications, noting a work group meeting was scheduled. Regarding training and oversight, he stated the county retains responsibility for contract administration and compliance but committed to partnering with local agencies to determine the best path for quality improvement and training. He confirmed County Fire has no intention of bidding on the service and is managing the area per board directive.
• Motion: The Vice Chair moved to accept the staff recommendation. The Chair Pro Tem seconded the motion.
• Decision: The motion passed unanimously.

Item 22: Aging Roadmap San Diego County Regional Plan Fiscal Year 2025-2026

• Discussion: Staff presented the annual update on the Aging Roadmap, a comprehensive plan launched in 2019 to support older adults. Highlights included nearly 4,000 participants in health promotion programs, over 400 older adult volunteers engaged through the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, and support for over 31,000 family caregivers. The presentation covered progress in ten priority areas, including health, social participation, the silver economy, medical and social services, transportation, and housing.
• Questions: The Chair asked about challenges facing the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, specifically regarding potential impacts from Medi-Cal eligibility changes (HR 1) and asset thresholds. Staff indicated they are monitoring the situation, have safety nets in place for redeterminations, and do not currently have data on how many individuals may lose eligibility due to asset threshold changes but committed to providing that information to the Board. Staff also noted that the provider registry helps match recipients with caregivers.
• Public Comment: Several individuals spoke. Comments included concerns about the adequacy of current programs, suggestions for alternative housing solutions (e.g., 3D printed homes), questions regarding public health information campaigns concerning marijuana use and interactions with prescription medications, requests for truthful cannabis marketing and consumer warnings, and suggestions to communicate with older adults via mail rather than phone to avoid scams.
• Motion: No formal motion was made to adopt or reject the report; the item was received as an update. The Vice Chair noted the importance of tracking service levels relative to population growth and the impact of funding changes on local organizations.
• Decision: The report was received.

Item 23: Authorization to Apply for the Community Resilience Centers Implementation Grant with PANA

• Discussion: The Vice Chair introduced the late docket board letter, authorizing San Diego County to enter a co-applicant partnership with PANA (Partnership for Advancement of New Americans) for the California Strategic Growth Council’s Community Resilience Centers Round Two Implementation Grant. The grant application deadline closed prior to the next board meeting. The project, known as the Global Village, is a planned mixed-use development including 144 units of affordable housing and 50,000 square feet of civic space, designed to serve as a regional emergency hub for refugee and immigrant communities. The Vice Chair emphasized the time constraint and the opportunity to secure up to $10 million in state funding for emergency management.
• Motion: The Vice Chair moved to approve the item. A second was provided.
• Public Comment: Numerous individuals spoke in support, citing the need for culturally and linguistically appropriate emergency preparedness resources, the lack of cost to the county (as it is a state grant application), and the benefits for vulnerable populations. Several individuals spoke in opposition, raising concerns about the prioritization of specific demographic groups, the use of public funds, and the political nature of the organization.
• Decision: The motion passed unanimously.

Closed Session Public Comment (Item 26)

• Discussion: Public comment was taken on matters scheduled for closed session, including existing litigation, anticipated litigation, and labor negotiations.
• Comments: Speakers addressed various legal cases, including personal injury, property damage, and wrongful death claims, as well as labor negotiations. Some speakers expressed concerns about the handling of specific cases and the county's response times. Other comments included requests for audits of specific departments and suggestions regarding the settlement of abuse cases.

Non-Agenda Public Comment

• Discussion: Public comment was taken on matters not listed on the agenda.
• Comments: Speakers addressed topics including fire season preparedness, the functionality of fire hydrants and reservoirs, border security at the Tijuana River mouth, and public health concerns regarding tobacco and cannabis use. One speaker cited a Surgeon General’s report on tobacco-related disparities and called for an emergency ban on smoking and vaping in public spaces. Another speaker presented findings from a statewide assessment of smoke shops, noting the sale of unauthorized psychoactive products near schools, and urged the Board to consider nuisance declarations and regulatory actions to protect youth.

Adjournment in Memory of Gloria Steinem

• Discussion: The Chair and the Chair Pro Tem presented a motion to adjourn the meeting in memory of Gloria Steinem. The Chair noted Steinem’s work regarding women’s workplace equality, the founding of Ms. Magazine, and the National Women’s Political Caucus. The Chair Pro Tem highlighted Steinem’s connection to San Diego, including her 1984 visit to San Diego State University, and discussed the historical barriers women faced in securing financial independence.
• Motion: A motion was made to adjourn the meeting in memory of Gloria Steinem.
• Decision: The board agreed to the adjournment.
• Vote Outcome: Passed.

Recess into Closed Session

• Action: The Clerk of the Board announced that the board would recess into closed session to consider matters listed under item 26 of the agenda.
• Next Session: The board scheduled to reconvene for the land use session on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.