619-236-6644 | HenryFoster@SanDiego.gov | @CD4Foster
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A MESSAGE FROM COUNCILMEMBER FOSTER
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As we welcome 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we accomplished together over the past year and share my gratitude for the continued partnership of our District 4 community.
In 2025, we made real progress by staying focused on the priorities that matter most. Across District 4, we restored library and park hours, collected more than 100 tons of trash through community cleanups, repaired 209 streetlights, and paved over 66 miles of road. We fully funded the new Oak Park Library, secured $1.7 million for the design and construction of new comfort stations at Marie Wideman Park, and took action to support working families by voting for grocery price transparency and a minimum wage increase for event and tourism workers. We also continued to strengthen community safety through partnerships with local organizations and violence-prevention efforts, supported youth and families by investing in programs that create safe spaces to learn and connect, and celebrated the people, culture, and history that make District 4 so special through community events and citywide recognitions.
We also worked to improve quality of life across our neighborhoods by advocating for investments in public spaces, supporting small businesses and nonprofits, and ensuring our voices were represented in citywide conversations around infrastructure, equity, and long-term planning. None of this work happens without community input, and your engagement continues to guide how my office shows up every day.
As we begin this new year, my commitment remains the same: to listen, to lead with values, and to work alongside you to build safer, stronger, and more connected neighborhoods. There is still important work ahead, and I look forward to continuing that work together in 2026.
Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your pride in District 4. I wish you and your loved ones a healthy, hopeful, and productive start to the year.
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ENDING 2025 WITH A FIRST QUARTER BUDGET MONITORING
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In December, we closed out the year with a first quarter budget monitoring report and a five year outlook on the City’s fiscal health. As Chair of the Budget and Government Efficiency Committee, I take these checkpoints seriously. They give us a clear picture of where the City stands financially and help guide responsible planning for the months ahead.
These reviews really help guide how the City prioritizes funding for the services people rely on every day, including public safety, infrastructure improvements, and community programs. It’s also a moment to identify gaps, ask tough questions, and make adjustments so public dollars are being used where they can make the greatest impact.
For communities like District 4 that have been historically underserved, this work is personal. That's why your input is needed. The Budget Priorities Survey is still open and available on our District 4 website or by clicking scanning the QR code below. I encourage you to share your input and help guide next year’s budget so it reflects the needs and priorities of our neighborhoods.
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WHERE IS CANNABIS EQUITY?
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California has led the nation on cannabis reform, from legalizing medical cannabis in 1996 to voters approving adult use through Proposition 64 in 2016. But legalization did not automatically mean justice. When recreational cannabis became legal and the City of San Diego issued 36 licenses to sell cannabis, not a single one went to people from the communities most harmed by past cannabis enforcement and the War on Drugs.
For decades, Black and Brown communities were disproportionately targeted, arrested, and prosecuted for cannabis. As recently as 2015, Black San Diegans were arrested for cannabis at more than double the rate of White residents, and during the height of the War on Drugs that disparity was more than five times higher. Families were burdened with criminal records, lost opportunities, and long-term barriers to housing, employment, and stability. Yet when legalization created real economic opportunity, those same communities were shut out. That is a wrong we cannot ignore.
That is why I am bringing forward a Cannabis Equity item to the Economic Development and Intergovernmental Relations Committee in 2026. This proposal would authorize 36 additional cannabis licenses with clear safeguards to ensure they remain with people who were directly impacted by past enforcement. This is about correcting a real harm caused by racist policies, restoring access to opportunity, and creating accountability and economic pathways for individuals and communities that were excluded the first time. Equity is not a favor. It is repair.
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CELEBRATING MORSE HIGH SCHOOL AND THE TIGERS COMMUNITY
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Congratulations to Morse High School Tigers and the entire Tigers community on an incredible football season and a hard-earned CIF San Diego Section Division 5 Championship.
With a 45–30 victory over Hoover, the Tigers captured their first section title since 2018 and advanced to the Southern California Regional playoffs. This historic run reflects the discipline, teamwork, and resilience of the student athletes who gave it their all, the coaching staff who guided them every step of the way, and the families and supporters who showed up week after week. A special shoutout to Head Coach Tracy McNair and the entire coaching staff for their leadership, commitment, and belief in these young men.
Competing on the section and regional stage is no small feat, and Morse represented District 4 with pride, determination, and heart. To the student athletes, keep pushing, keep believing, and keep giving it your all on the field, in the classroom, and beyond. This season will be remembered as a milestone moment for the school and a powerful reminder of the excellence that exists in our neighborhoods. District 4 is proud of the Tigers.
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EXPANDING PATHWAYS TO FIRE & EMS CAREERS
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On December 3, I joined San Diego Workforce Partnership, regional partners, fire agency leaders, and cadets to highlight new funding that expands fire and EMS training programs across San Diego County. I have supported these efforts for a long time because expanding access to training creates real pathways into good careers, strengthens public safety, and advances equity across our region. This investment reflects strong regional collaboration and helps build the next generation of first responders while opening doors for communities that have historically been left out. We must continue to support and invest in EMS training programs because these professionals are the future of our emergency response system and play a critical role in keeping our communities safe.
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WORKING TOGETHER TO KEEP DISTRICT 4 CLEAN
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On December 6, we held a Dumpster Day at the Willie Henderson Sports Complex, bringing neighbors together to take pride in our shared spaces and care for our community. Residents, volunteers, and partners worked side-by-side to dispose of bulky items, remove debris, and help keep our neighborhoods clean and safe. Events like this show the power of collective action and what we can accomplish when we come together with a shared purpose. I’m thankful to everyone who participated and helped make this effort a success. Your commitment to District 4 makes a real and lasting difference.
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CREATING SAFE SPACES FOR OUR YOUTH
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On December 9, we celebrated the grand opening of the Mt. View and Stockton Memorial Youth Drop In Centers, an important step in creating safe and welcoming spaces for young people right in our community. These new centers will give youth a place to connect with one another, build new skills, and access support services close to home. This milestone reflects a shared commitment to investing in our young people and providing the resources they need to thrive. I want to thank PHATCAMP Inc., Giving Hands Nonprofit, and Access Inc. for their leadership, partnership, and dedication in bringing this vision to life, along with everyone who worked to make this possible for our community. This is what it looks like when we show up for one another because no one will take better care of our community than us.
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WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA AT GREENWOOD MEMORIAL PARK
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On December 13, I was honored to speak at Greenwood Memorial Park during Wreaths Across America, an annual tradition held at cemeteries across the country to honor veterans through the placement of remembrance wreaths. This year marked the eleventh and final time Greenwood hosted this ceremony. I want to recognize Greenwood Memorial Park and co-location coordinators Gloria James and Dee Sanford for their dedication to honoring the nearly 10,000 veterans laid to rest there. I also want to thank the volunteers, donors, veterans organizations, youth groups, and families who showed up each year to ensure these veterans were remembered with dignity. While it was difficult to hear that this would be the final year the ceremony would be held at Greenwood, honoring those who served does not end with this ceremony. It lives on through our actions, our gratitude, and our commitment to never forget their sacrifice.
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SERVING COMMUNITY ON CHRISTMAS MORNING
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On Christmas morning, I had the honor of joining the 8th Annual Christmas Day Breakfast hosted by Shane Harris, a meaningful tradition rooted in service and care. Thanks to the collective efforts of volunteers, partners, and community members, this event provided a warm meal and support to more than 500 foster youth, unsheltered families, and military families. Moments like this remind us of the strength of our community and the impact we can make when we show up for one another. I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this day possible and demonstrated what compassion and leadership look like in action. May we continue to lead with care, especially during the moments when our neighbors need it most.
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A HOLIDAY TRADITION OF GIVING BACK
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On Christmas Eve, I joined our community for the 32nd Annual Christmas Extravaganza Holiday Toy Giveaway, a long-standing tradition that brings joy and support to families during the holiday season. It was an honor to stand alongside partners who continue to show up for our community year after year. I want to extend a special thank you to Dr. Netreia Carroll for her 32 years of dedicated leadership, as well as Toys for Tots, the generous sponsors, and the many volunteers who made this day possible. Because of their commitment, children left with smiles and families felt supported. This event is a true reflection of the spirit of community.
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Project New Village
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
January 17, 2026
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
4269 Market Street
San Diego, CA 92102
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The 44th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
January 18, 2026
11:00 am
Harbor Drive South
from Ash St. to Pacific Hwy., San Diego, CA
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Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Community Parade and Celebration
January 24, 2026
Parade: 9:00 - 10:30 am
Celebration: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
MLK Community Park - Front Passive Area
6401 Skyline Dr., San Diego, CA 92114
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Positive Parenting Resource Fair
January 31, 2026
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Paradise Hills Branch Library
7900 Paradise Valley Rd., San Diego, CA 92139
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The San Diego People of Color of Quilt Guild
Quilt Show
February 28, 2026
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Live Well Center
5101 Market Street
San Diego, CA 92114
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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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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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4,695 REPORTS (2025 Total)
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Get It Done Issue @ S Willie James Jones Ave
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Get It Done Issue @ Naranja St
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Get It Done Issue @ 50th St
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THE CLIPPER GAME BARBERSHOP
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Owned by Ruthie Q, this Black woman owned business is rooted in craftsmanship, care, and intention. Ruthie began working with hair at 13 years old, starting with braiding before expanding into weaves and eventually barbering. She taught herself by cutting hair whenever she had the opportunity and committed fully to mastering her craft. At 38, she returned to college and earned her associate degree with a 4.0 GPA before choosing to pursue what truly fulfilled her and enrolling in barber college.
Within six months of earning her barber’s license, Ruthie opened The Clipper Game Barbershop. She built the shop from the ground up, saving her own money and personally designing and constructing much of the space. Every detail reflects her intention to create a calm, welcoming environment rooted in care and respect.
Opening in District 4 was a deliberate choice. Ruthie wanted to show that beautifully designed, high quality spaces belong in every neighborhood. Her shop offers a peaceful atmosphere where clients are greeted, known by name, and treated with dignity.
Community is central to her work. From free haircuts at the grand opening to back-to-school events that provided food and backpacks, Ruthie and her team consistently find ways to give back. Seniors receive discounted services, and compassion guides how the shop shows up for neighbors during difficult times.
For Ruthie, owning a barbershop is not the finish line. It is one step in a larger vision centered on growth, creativity, and continued service. Through The Clipper Game Barbershop, she is helping strengthen community in District 4.
Visit The Clipper Game Barbershop at 5065 Federal Blvd., San Diego, CA 92102.
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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
**must be enrolled**
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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
Wednesdays
9:30–10:30 a.m.
Feelin’ Fit Exercise
Wednesdays and Fridays
10:30–11:30 a.m.
Line Dancing
Thursdays
1:00–2:00 p.m.
S.W.A.G (Single Widowed Adult Group)
Third Thursday
12:30 p.m. (Call to confirm)
Feeding San Diego Food Distribution
Fourth Thursday
11:30–2:30 p.m.
Friday Lunch
Noon–2:00 p.m.
Congregate at GLS Senior Center
Pick-ups & Homebound
(call to request by Thursdays at 3 p.m.)
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7445 Tooma Street
San Diego, CA 92139
Phone: 619-527-7632
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Activities:
Karaoke Jam Session
Monday - Friday
10:00 am–noon
Line Dancing
Monday - Friday
10:00 am–noon
Golden Zumba
Wednesdays
3:00–4:00 pm
Beginners Ballroom Dancing
First and Third Thursday of the month
2:00–4:00 pm
Evening Line Dancing
Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays
4:30–5:30 pm
Zumba - Adult
Fridays
3:00–4:00 pm
Serving Seniors
Monday - Friday
12:30–1:30 pm
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 President Debra D. Ann Roberson is gathering classmates and preparing for this special milestone celebration.
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.
Planned events include a 50-Year Reunion Gala on Saturday, August 22 and much more.
For inquiries, contact Diane Wells morsehs7650@gmail.com.
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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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
Location: Southeastern Live Well Center, 5101 Market St., San Diego, CA, 92114
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✔️ Report Issues
Use the GET IT DONE app to report potholes, streetlights, and more
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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
202 C Street #10A
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 236-6644
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