San Diego · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Diego public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
SDG&E Franchise Compliance and Renewal
The independent audit found SDG&E largely compliant with its franchise agreements, with minor documentation and scheduling issues. The citizen oversight committee recommends conditional renewal — but critics say compliance isn't the same as affordability.
Water bond downgrade and borrowing costs
Moody's downgraded the water utility's bond rating the morning of the vote, citing weak liquidity and uncertainty about raising rates. The practical hit is small — maybe five basis points — but it signals the water system's finances are under strain as the city borrows $475 million.
Pure Water program contract expansion
The council signed off on adding $6.65 million and three years to the Trussell Technologies contract supporting the North City Pure Water Facility — part of the city's push to recycle wastewater into drinking water.
Pump Station 2 Wastewater Upgrade
The council approved a contract amendment to keep the critical 63-year-old Pump Station 2 upgrade on track, avoiding sewage spills like past rain-event overflows.
2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan
The city's updated 25-year water forecast shows demand flattening by 2050 thanks to conservation and lower growth projections, with Pure Water pushing local supplies to 70% by 2050. The drought plan lays out six shortage levels and response actions.
Water Authority representation
Tim Douglas, union president and former city reservoir ranger-diver, was appointed to the regional water board at a time of contentious water rate discussions.