Monday's attack on our community

This week, our City experienced a violent and hateful attack.

Violence against the Muslim community is absolutely abhorrent, and what occurred this week is a clear demonstration that our vigilance in protecting the right to worship freely and safely is more necessary than ever. My heart is heavy for the families of those involved in the attack upon the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont. And while one community very much suffered, we must recognize that the two assailants were radicalized in our city, and perpetrated violence designed to instill fear and suffering in all the decent people of San Diego.

The selfless actions and sacrifice of the three victims undoubtedly prevented further loss of life. At the vigil Tuesday night, Nadia and I stood alongside the community in mourning this loss as well as the lost innocence of the children and staff whose lives were forever changed that day.

I pray that those affected feel our city’s support as they forge the path for healing; it is on each of us to cultivate a city where love and resilience triumph over hate. I hope that those reading will share a moment with me to consider the role we individually play in building a city where everyone, regardless of who they are and what they believe in, feels safe. Because no act of hate will ever be bigger than what we achieve together as family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, schoolmates, and San Diegans. As is taught in Scripture, a light shines in the darkness, and the darkness shall not overcome it.

Trash fees reduced and Balboa Park parking fees gone, in one fell swoop: victory for common sense

As was reported in Wednesday’s news, the City has an agreement to end the lawsuit against the City’s trash fee. Trash fees will be significantly lowered, and parking at the crown jewel of San Diego will be free for everyone, not just City of San Diego residents.

As the only councilmember who voted against both the trash fee and Balboa Park parking fees, I am pleased that the City Council has agreed to this settlement. With this agreement, we reduce the cost of living in San Diego and begin the process of rebuilding San Diegans' trust in their city government. Seniors who live on a fixed income and families struggling to pay their bills will see more money in their pocket, and small businesses and museums in Balboa Park will see their customers return.

I will continue to advocate for the City to live within our own means instead of charging our residents more, and for the City to help small businesses and non-profits that provide good jobs and services to our region.

Fundamentally, instead of charging $55 per month starting next year on July 1 (the start of the next fiscal year), the charge will be $38.75, which is essentially the original $29 charge advertised in 2022’s Measure B, adjusted for inflation. And free parking in Balboa Park will return no later than January 1, 2027. I wish we had never made these mistakes as a City, but I am glad to see families getting relief shortly.

One year since the plane crash in Tierrasanta

One year ago, Tierrasanta faced an enormous community loss and tragedy when a plane crashed into Murray Ridge neighborhood. In an instant, we lost the lives of six individuals on the planes and mobilized to support families impacted by the crash.

Although it was one of the most difficult days I’ve experienced in this role, I will never forget how awestruck I was at the quick and efficient emergency service response, the incredible level-headedness demonstrated when families evacuated themselves and their neighbors, and the immediate outpouring of support by the entire San Diego community through donated time, resources, energy, and goods.

I am incredibly proud of all that went into handling this crisis and thank each and every person who made the difference last year. And to the families of Dave Shapiro, Kendall Fortner, Emma Huke, Dominic Damian, Daniel Williams, and Celina Kenyon: your loved ones will never be forgotten, and they are forever in our hearts.

Sincerely,