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In February, the Encanto Parks and Recreation Group voted to approve the General Development Plan (GDP) amendment, marking an important step forward for the Encanto Skate Plaza. Building on that, the Parks and Recreation Board met on March 19 at the Balboa Park Club Ballroom and unanimously approved the amendment to include the skate plaza, bringing us closer to making this community vision a reality. This project is a direct result of community voices, and I want to thank everyone who has stayed engaged throughout the process. I also want to recognize Evelyn Smith, Chair of the Encanto Parks and Recreation Group and member of the Parks and Recreation Board, along with Lexus Jackson, for their leadership in moving this forward. I am proud to help bring this vision to life for District 4.
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619-236-6644 | HenryFoster@SanDiego.gov | @CD4Foster |
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A MESSAGE FROM COUNCILMEMBER FOSTER |
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Dear Neighbors,
As we move into April, we recognize moments that bring our communities together, including Easter and Earth Day. Each is an opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and continue caring for one another and the spaces we share.
At City Hall, we are entering an important season as early budget conversations begin to take shape. Our office is advocating for investments that reflect the needs of District 4, while also advancing key efforts such as proposed speed limit reductions to improve safety, and initial discussions around potential ballot measures that could impact our city’s future.
We are also continuing critical conversations through the SEED Cannabis Equity Program, focused on creating opportunity, accountability, and repairing harm in communities that have been disproportionately impacted. In addition, new blue recycling bins have begun rolling out across neighborhoods.
I’m proud to share continued progress on the Encanto Skate Plaza, a project shaped by community voices that is now moving forward.
I encourage you to take a few moments to read through this newsletter to learn more about what’s ahead, what we’ve been working on, and how you can stay engaged.
Together, we will continue Building a Stronger District 4. |
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BUDGET SEASON AND COMMUNITY INPUT |
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In March, the City Council began early discussions on the upcoming budget as we prepare for a challenging fiscal year. With a projected deficit, these conversations are critical to ensuring we protect the services our communities rely on while making thoughtful, responsible decisions.
On March 10, the City Council heard several key budget related items, including the FY 2027 to 2031 Five Year Capital Infrastructure Planning Outlook and a City Council informational training on zero based budgeting. The Council also held an evening meeting to provide residents with an opportunity to learn more and share their input. For those who would like to revisit the discussion, you can watch the full March 10 meeting and all other City Council meetings here: bit.ly/41d3d4u
Budget decisions directly impact our neighborhoods, from infrastructure to public safety, which is why community voice is so important. I encourage District 4 residents to stay engaged and take part in the process as it moves forward. It is not too late to complete the Mayor’s budget priority survey and make sure your voice is part of this important conversation, and I encourage you to share it with your family and neighbors.
Take the survey by visiting: |
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ADVANCING SAFER STREETS |
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In March, the City Council approved a Comprehensive Speed Management Plan to lower speed limits on more than 600 miles of streets across San Diego, focusing on areas with higher rates of traffic injuries.
This includes reducing speeds along high injury corridors, in business districts, and in some school zones, where limits may be lowered to better protect students and families.
As implementation moves forward, residents may begin to see updated speed limit signage in different areas across the city. |
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ADVANCING THE SEED CANNABIS EQUITY PROGRAM |
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In March, my office, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office, advanced the SEED Cannabis Equity Program through the Economic Development and Intergovernmental Relations Committee, marking an important step forward in this work.
The SEED program is focused on addressing the impacts of past cannabis enforcement and creating pathways for economic opportunity in communities that have been historically harmed and excluded from the legal market. In San Diego, Black residents make up about 5 percent of the population but accounted for 16 percent of cannabis related arrests, highlighting the disproportionate impact on communities of color.
This effort is rooted in fairness, accountability, and access. It is not about expanding cannabis use, but about correcting harm and ensuring that opportunity exists within a regulated and responsible system. |
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BLUE RECYCLE BINS ON THEIR WAY |
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The City has begun rolling out the new light blue recycling bins to eligible households across San Diego as part of an effort to improve waste collection and increase recycling participation citywide.
Deliveries are expected to continue through early fall, with timing based on your collection route and pickup day. These updated bins are more durable, easier to identify, and include scannable tags to help improve service.
If your old bin is not collected automatically, residents can request pickup through the Get It Done app or by submitting a request online.
This program is designed to make recycling more accessible and consistent for households, while supporting our broader environmental goals and helping keep our neighborhoods clean.
For more information, visit: |
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DELIVERING RESULTS: STREET LIGHT REPAIRS IN DISTRICT 4 |
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Since taking office, I have prioritized addressing long standing infrastructure needs across District 4. To date, 209 streetlights have been repaired, improving safety, visibility, and quality of life for our residents.
When I began this work, there were 250 outstanding streetlight service requests in our district. Today, that backlog has been significantly reduced through focused and consistent action.
These repairs mean safer streets for drivers, pedestrians, and families across our communities. Street lighting plays a critical role in public safety, helping residents feel safer and ensuring better visibility throughout our neighborhoods.
Delivering core services like this is a priority for me. I will continue working to address remaining requests and ensure District 4 neighborhoods are safe, well maintained, and properly served. |
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ENCANTO SKATE PLAZA MOVES FORWARD |
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PAN AFRICAN UNITY THROUGH ART AT CITY HALL |
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On March 6, my office attended the “One Source, Many Streams: Pan African Unity Through Art” mixer at City Hall, celebrating a powerful pop-up exhibit that brought together culture, creativity, and community. It was an honor to uplift the talented artists, designers, and performers who shared their work, and I am especially grateful to each of the artists who displayed and shared their work with us at City Hall. Thank you everyone who helped bring this vision to life, and to everyone who joined us in celebration. This exhibit served as a reminder of the importance of art as a unifying force and the role it plays in telling our stories and strengthening community. |
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CELEBRATING WOMEN OF DISTINCTION |
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On March 10, we proudly recognized LaRaza Webb as District 4’s 2026 Women of Distinction honoree as part of the City of San Diego’s annual Women’s History Month tradition led by the Mayor’s Office. This long standing tradition celebrates and uplifts women whose leadership, resilience, and dedication continue to strengthen our communities. It is an opportunity to honor the impact women have made, and continue to make, across District 4 and throughout our city. I am grateful for LaRaza’s service, creativity, and continued commitment to uplifting our community, and proud to celebrate her contributions during this special time. Once again, congratulations LaRaza, this recognition is well deserved. |
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LITTLE LEAGUE OPENING DAY |
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On March 7, it was great to be back at Skyline Pony Little League for Opening Day. As a former coach, moments like this are especially meaningful to me. It was a privilege to present a proclamation to Mr. Thomas Lee Killingsworth and a commendation to Mr. Willie Lessier in recognition of their service to the league. That same day, Encanto Little League celebrated its 70th anniversary, and it was an honor to present a proclamation recognizing their long standing impact in the Encanto community. There is something special about seeing the next generation step onto the field full of excitement, confidence, and possibility. These programs play an important role in helping our youth grow, build character, and learn the value of teamwork and discipline. I want to thank the families, coaches, and volunteers who show up and pour into these young athletes. Your time and commitment are what keep these programs thriving. I am proud to support Skyline Pony Little League and Encanto Little League and the role they continue to play in uplifting our community. |
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SOUTHEASTERN CONNECT SERVICE EXPANDED |
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Great news, District 4! The Southeastern Connect service zone has expanded, increasing access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable transportation across our communities. Southeastern Connect is an on demand electric vehicle ride service designed to help residents travel within designated neighborhoods and connect to key destinations like grocery stores, schools, medical appointments, and transit hubs. The expanded service area now includes more of Southeastern San Diego, helping better connect communities such as Encanto, Valencia Park, Lincoln Park, and Mountain View. This program is especially important in areas where transit options may be limited, and it remains free through December 2026, making it an easy and cost effective option for daily travel. I encourage residents to take advantage of this service and explore how it can support your transportation needs.
To view service maps and see if your area is covered, visit: https://city.ridewithvia.com/san-diego. |
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APRIL 2026 |
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5th Annual Transportation Justice Expo April 11, 2026 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Market Creek Plaza 310 Euclid Ave., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Photo Drive: Mike Norris Legacy Legends Foundation April 11, 2026 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Southeastern Live Well Center 5101 Market St., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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African American Writers & Artist Black History Month Art Contest Awards Ceremony April 11, 2026 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Malcolm X Library 5148 Market St., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Earth Day Extravaganza April 18, 2026 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Chollas Creekside Park Market Street @ Euclid, San Diego, CA 92102 |
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Grand Opening: Paradise Hills Native Garden April 18, 2026 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Paradise Hills Native Garden 6800 Potomac St., San Diego, CA 92139 |
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Community Fun Day April 18, 2026 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Market Creek Amphitheatre 336 Euclid Ave., San Diego, CA 92139 |
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2026 Arbor Day SD April 24, 2026 9:00 am - 11:30 am Gompers Neighborhood Park 4926 Hilltop Dr., San Diego, CA 92102 |
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I Love A Clean San Diego - Creek to Bay Clean Up April 24, 2026 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Various Locations For Info visit: creektobay.org |
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Urban Collaborative & Mundo Gardens April 29, 2026 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Jackie Robinson YMCA 151 YMCA Way, San Diego, CA 92102 |
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FUTURE 2026 |
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Community Swimathon May 2, 2026 9:00 am - 9:00 pm Jackie Robinson YMCA 151 YMCA Way, San Diego, CA 92102 |
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Stewardship Saturdays May 9, 2026 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Chollas Creekside Park Market Street @ Euclid, San Diego, CA 92102 |
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Malcolm X Library 30th Year Anniversary May 9, 2026 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Malcolm X Library 5148 Market St., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Urban Collaborative & Mundo Gardens June 6, 2026 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Jackie Robinson YMCA 151 YMCA Way, San Diego, CA 92102 |
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Stewardship Saturdays June 13, 2026 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Chollas Creekside Park Market Street @ Euclid, San Diego, CA 92102 |
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Cooper Family Foundation Annual Juneteenth Celebration June 20, 2026 11:00 am - 6:30 pm Memorial Park 2975 Ocean Blvd., San Diego, CA 92113 |
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REGULAR MONTHLY EVENTS |
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Southeast Art Team SD Mural Maintenance Every Second Saturday 9:00 am Various Mural Locations For Info: SESDcollective@gmail.com |
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Lost Neighborhoods Exhibit Now through May 31, 2026 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Wed - Sun) The San Diego History Center - Balboa Park 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 |
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Teen Tuesdays Every Tuesday 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Bingo Night Every Wednesday 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Open Mic (Every 4th Monday) 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Community Actor's Theatre 2957 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Tai Chi Moving For Better Balance Every Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 am - 9:00 am Market Creek Plaza 366 Euclid Ave., Suite 502, San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Fishing for Kids (ages 15 and Under) Every Saturday and Sunday 11:30 am - 2:30 pm Chollas Lake 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Intro to Archery (ages 8 and up) Every Saturday and Sunday 12:00 - 1:15 pm Chollas Lake 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Needles, Hooks & Good Books: Every Saturday 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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TEAM FOSTER SUBMITTED
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442 REPORTS (MARCH) |
Get It Done Issue @ Imperial Avenue |
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Get It Done Issue @ National Avenue |
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Get It Done Issue @ San Onofre Terrace |
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COMMON GROUND THEATRE |
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This month, I am proud to highlight Common Ground Theatre, a premier Black theatre company based right here in District 4 and a true cultural cornerstone with roots dating back to 1963. Founded during the civil rights era, the company was created to ensure that Black stories, voices, and talent had a space to be seen, heard, and developed, and that purpose continues to guide their work today.
Under the leadership of Executive Artistic Director Yolanda Franklin, Common Ground Theatre produces both classic and new works by and about people of African descent, while creating space for meaningful dialogue, cultural expression, and artistic growth. Their impact extends beyond the stage through programs like the STARS Theatre Arts Program, which helps mentor and develop the next generation of young artists in our community.
Common Ground Theatre frequently performs at the Educational Cultural Complex and continues to serve as a pipeline for Black artistic talent across San Diego. Its long standing commitment to uplifting stories and investing in people has made it a trusted and respected institution in our city’s cultural landscape.
In 2022 to 2023, Common Ground Theatre was selected as the Theatre in Residence at La Jolla Playhouse, receiving mentorship and access to performance space to further support its mission of presenting works by and about people of African descent. Opportunities like this reflect the strength of the organization and its continued impact across the region.
I encourage you to learn more about Common Ground Theatre, attend a performance, and support the important work it continues to lead.
Learn more: www.commongroundtheatre.com |
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Senior Resources & Centers |
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Call Center - 800-339-4661 |
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Discover resources and support services for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their families. |
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Services:
Help with living at home Healthy Living Meals & Senior Dining Safety Mental Health Financial/ Legal Health Insurance Services |
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795 S. Boundary Street San Diego, CA 92113
Phone: 858-221-2225 |
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Hours: Wednesdays 9:00–2:00 pm |
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Services:
Healthy breakfast and lunch Arts & Crafts Painting classes Exercise Field Trips Health and nutrition education Transportation Walking group |
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570 S. 65th Street San Diego, CA 92114
Phone: 619-266-2066 |
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Activities: Glide and Stride Walkers Feelin’ Fit Exercise Line Dancing S.W.A.G (Single Widowed Adult Group) Feeding San Diego Food Distribution Friday Lunch
Congregate at GLS Senior Center
Pick-ups & Homebound |
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7445 Tooma Street San Diego, CA 92139
Phone: 619-527-7632 |
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Activities:
Karaoke Jam Session Line Dancing Golden Zumba Beginners Ballroom Dancing Evening Line Dancing Zumba - Adult Serving Seniors Free meals to seniors 50+ Weekend meals available for pickup |
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Calling All Lincoln High School Hornets – Class of 1976 |
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If you are a graduate of Abraham Lincoln High School’s Class of 1976, your 50-year reunion is coming up. Class of 1976 is encouraged to connect and stay updated by reaching out to Debra at dr524604@gmail.com.
Please share this with any classmates you know so the entire class can be part of this reunion. |
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Attention Morse High School Tigers – Class of 1976 |
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Morse High School Class of 1976 your 50-Year Reunion is happening August 21–29, 2026.
Please share this with any classmates you know so the entire class can be part of this reunion. |
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Want to make a difference in your neighborhood? |
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✔️ Connect with Our Office Call (619) 236‑6644 or email HenryFoster@sandiego.gov |
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Your voice matters. That’s why I created “Foster Fridays” to meet with you, the residents of District 4, on Fridays at the Southeastern Live Well Center. Email me to schedule an appointment: HenryFoster@sandiego.gov. I look forward to meeting you.
Office Hours: Fridays | 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM |
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✔️ Report Issues Use the GET IT DONE app to report potholes, streetlights, and more |
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✔️ Attend Meetings Join City Council meetings virtually or in person |
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✔️ Join a Planning Group Attend your local community planning group meetings |
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Let’s build a stronger District 4, together. |
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Councilmember Henry L. Foster III City of San Diego Council District 4 City Administration Building (619) 236-6644 |
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