San Diego · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Diego public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Measure C repeal and Midway coastal height limit
Six years after voters passed it, the hotel tax increase is finally being implemented, with a retroactive start of May 1, 2025. The money splits between homelessness programs and the convention center, with street repairs getting a share after 2030.
Coastal certification of the 2024 Land Development Code update
The 2024 code update can't take effect in the coastal zone until the Coastal Commission's three required modifications are adopted. The council approved them, clearing the way for final certification.
SB 79 Phased Implementation and Transit-Oriented Development Exemptions
The state law requires San Diego to approve certain housing projects near major transit stops starting July 1, 2026. The council's compromise leaves it to SANDAG to map qualifying bus corridors, and Councilmember Whitburn will push for Park Boulevard, University Avenue and El Cajon Boulevard to be included.
Renaming Cesar Chavez Parkway to Chicano Park Boulevard
After New York Times reporting on abuse allegations against Cesar Chavez, the mayor's office asked the council to rename the Barrio Logan street for the park the community fought to create. Barrio Logan residents and Chicano Park founding families turned out in strong support. New signs should appear around mid-June, with Caltrans freeway signage to follow in the fall.
Barrio Logan community plan and rezone
The council fixed zoning errors from the 2023 Coastal Commission amendments so Chicano Park and the Boston Avenue corridor stay parkland — blocking a potential car wash on a Caltrans parcel slated for sale. Residents celebrated decades of work to secure green space in one of California's most polluted communities.
Historic preservation program overhaul (Preservation and Progress Package A)
The council changed how historic designations are appealed, adding a 'findings not supported' ground letting the council reconsider Historical Resources Board decisions, and clarified that Complete Communities housing incentives apply to non-contributing parcels in thematic/emerging districts like Ocean Beach. Preservation groups say it politicizes expert decisions and weakens protections; housing advocates say it adds certainty.