But first, the budget

The question I asked at the beginning of the budget season was this: does the final budget protect the basics for people to live safely now, while investing in the future for this city to flourish later?

In large part, the answer is yes. While no budget is as good as we all want, the unanimously approved budget is significantly better than the original proposal, thanks in large part due to public input. We were able to come together to significantly reduce the City’s budget deficit while maintaining vital public safety services and community programs.

I fought hard for critical restorations to the parks, libraries, and arts and culture programming in my district and across the city because we all deserve a safe, prosperous city. Through continued advocacy and persistence, my colleagues and I helped ensure restorations to the team that works to install safety improvements at intersections that need them most, keeping our children and families safe each day.

I will continue to advocate for common sense solutions that help us find an optimal balance between today’s needs and our vision for tomorrow.

The FIRST community garden in a City park built in Linda Vista

A community garden is more than just a place to grow fruits and vegetables; it’s a way to bring us closer together and foster interest in making our community more sustainable.

In June 2024, we celebrated the grand opening of the Linda Vista Community Garden, the first community garden in a City park and a project that I worked hard to get off the ground. Since then, the Linda Vista Community Garden has been a source of joy and health in the Linda Vista community. Big thanks to the Bayside Community Center and volunteers for their hard work maintaining it for everyone to enjoy.

Ruffin Canyon Trail completed in Serra Mesa

In April, after many years of hard work and diligence by community members, local organizations, and City staff, Ruffin Canyon Trail opened. The trail connects Serra Mesa down to Mission Valley. It’s an incredible respite from the noise and hustle bustle, offering families a quiet place to walk, hike, bike, and enjoy time in nature.

Our gratitude for those who got this project across the finish line is endless. I look forward to seeing all the benefits this trail brings to the community for generations to come.

We opened Navajo’s FIRST off-leash dog park

My team and I heard the community’s need for an off-leash dog park, and we delivered one.

In February 2024, Navajo families brought their fur-babies to the ribbon cutting of the Allied Gardens Off-leash Dog Park. It was one of the most fun days of my job, as D7 dogs frolicked in the grass and everyone celebrated this long-awaited project.

I love to see community members still enjoying the park. Pets are family and providing this space for dogs’ social and physical health (and that of their owners) was a huge win. We also made a pretty adorable video of the ceremony, which you can find below.

Major upgrades for major roads

Among concerns I hear the most at my Coffee with Campillo meetings and Town Hall events, roads are consistently top of mind. I’m always thrilled to learn of big pavement projects, especially those that tackle the arterial roads you use most.

Several major roads throughout District 7 have been repaved in my time as your Councilmember. Navajo Rd., Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Aero Dr., Tierrasanta Blvd., and College Ave. come to mind, all of which we rallied around and celebrated as huge wins for the district.

Here’s to more repaving projects!

I led policies to make San Diego safer and more prosperous

My team and I have worked hard to formulate and pass policies that make San Diego a safer, more prosperous place for everyone.

From developing a local policy to deter hate littering that moved up the ladder and became State law, to doubling paid parental leave for City of San Diego employees, to improving live-event worker conditions and mandating safety measures, I’ve explored common-sense solutions to everyday problems.

My policy work is not done. On the docket, I have policies to codify free parking at San Diego beaches and bays, make e-bike usage safer for children, improve transparency with residents, and much more.

My family has grown, and so has our gratitude

When I first took office in 2020, the world was in limbo at the height of the pandemic. I was encouraged, though, by your support for me. It was a new chapter of my life.

Since then, I married my incredible wife, Nadia (whom many of you know, too). We had two beautiful children, who bring joy and fun to our lives every single day. Rafael, once a baby in my arms at Coffee with Campillo, now walks alongside me in parades.

Our gratitude for the incredible neighborhood that we are so fortunate to be a part of is never lost on us. It is an enormous privilege to serve you and to experience your support. Thank you for six incredible years – I look forward to sharing the rest with you.

Sincerely,