Articles written by jim desmon
Sorted by date Results 26 - 50 of 82
"The State is Raising Our Electricity Bill"
A few months back, I wrote about the State of California's ill-conceived plan to charge electricity based on income. Thanks to our collective outcry, that proposal was rightfully defeated. However, our voices were not heard loud... — Updated 5/28/2024
Community Input Sought for 2024 – 25 County Budget
Over the coming weeks, the County of San Diego will actively seek community input, deliberate, make adjustments, and ultimately adopt the 2024 – 25 budget. This is one of the most important times of the year because it is crucial that we spend taxpayer dollars effectively while m... — Updated 5/28/2024
"San Diego is the New Epicenter"
San Diego is the new epicenter for migrants and illegal immigration. Last week alone, Border Patrol apprehended 9,000 illegal border crossers within the San Diego sector, including 206 Chinese nationals. This surge in illegal crossings has propelled San Diego to the unfortunate... — Updated 5/12/2024
Urgent Action Needed: Stop the Gas Tax Increase
As you know, we're facing a critical situation with soaring gas prices, escalating energy and utility costs, out-of-control housing expenses, and relentless inflation driving up the prices of goods and services. Many of our fellow... — Updated 5/10/2024
"We Stopped the Fixed-Rate Electricity Proposal"
I wanted to share some good news regarding our ongoing battle for fair electricity rates. You may recall the recent uproar surrounding the proposed changes to the fixed rate portion of our SDG&E electric bills. Many of you joined me in expressing concern about the unfairness of... — Updated 4/22/2024
"Implementing a Pilot Program"
The issue of homelessness is not just about lacking shelter; it’s about individuals grappling with mental illness. In our pursuit of solutions, it is crucial to recognize that a significant portion of the homeless population is affected by Serious Mental Illness (SMI), with e... — Updated 4/14/2024
"More Trees in San Diego"
A few weeks ago, we made a significant stride by expanding our proactive tree planting program in the unincorporated area. The Board of Supervisors allocated $2 million towards procuring around 4,000 trees from various vendors. Alongside tree acquisition, these funds will be... — Updated 4/11/2024
"Community Choice Aggregation: Facts and Choices"
I recently held a meeting to discuss the transition from SDG&E to Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) in our region. This initiative, led by the Clean Energy Alliance, aims to provide cleaner and potentially more affordable energy options for our communities. San Marcos and... — Updated 3/30/2024
"Legal Immigration"
As a supervisor for San Diego County, I’ve had the opportunity to witness firsthand the alarming situation at the Iris Avenue transit station, where Border Patrol agents are dropping off thousands of migrants. In just the past 16 days, over 11,000 migrants have been released at t... — Updated 3/29/2024
"Migrant Shelter in San Diego?"
Earlier this week, I stood as the lone dissenting voice against looking into a Long-Term Migrant Transfer Site and Respite Shelter in San Diego. My decision stems from a deep concern about the implications of supporting such a facility in our community. I refuse to be complicit... — Updated 3/19/2024
"Prop 1"
During our January 23 Board of Supervisors meeting, we delved into the details of Proposition 1, which is on the March ballot. I wanted to provide a recap of our discussion. I expressed reservations about Proposition 1’s approach despite recognizing some potential benefits. The p... — Updated 3/17/2024
"$6 Million Spent. Now What?"
The County of San Diego is on the brink of depleting the $6 million in local tax dollars utilized to fund transportation and other items for migrants entering the country. I have consistently opposed using local funds for federal responsibilities, as I firmly believe that local... — Updated 3/4/2024
"Border Update"
The chaos at our border has reached alarming levels, with over 90,000 border encounters in San Diego alone in the past five months. This surge is not just a matter of numbers; it’s a symptom of a system failing to enforce the laws designed to protect our nation’s borders. The Fed... — Updated 2/29/2024
"Stopping the Fixed Rate Electricity Proposal"
A few months ago, I brought to your attention the concerning proposal in California regarding a socialistic approach to electricity pricing based on income. This plan aimed to charge households fixed rates for electricity, irrespective of their actual consumption, with charges... — Updated 2/22/2024
"Preparing for Wet Weather"
It has already been a wet winter, with more rain expected. Witnessing the impact of the recent storm on our region, we are determined to minimize potential damage. I wanted to give you information to help prepare you for the next time a storm arrives. The County Office of Emergenc... — Updated 2/20/2024
"Another SVP"
It is with profound disappointment and deep concern that I express my opposition to the decision allowing the placement of Sexually Violent Predator Alvin Quarles, also known as the “Bolder than Most” rapist, back into San Diego County. The judge’s decision is devastating for our... — Updated 2/15/2024
"Free Healthcare"
With the chaos continuing, I’m highly displeased to see the State roll out a program incentivizing more people to enter the country illegally. Beginning January 1, the State of California is giving free healthcare to undocumented immigrants. Against numerous challenges in C... — Updated 2/15/2024
"Border Visit"
I wanted to update you on the immigration crisis, which continues to overwhelm our Border Patrol agents and cause a major strain on our local resources. Last week, I visited the border and migrant encampments in Jacumba. The chaos continues with dozens of people camped out,... — Updated 2/15/2024
"Checking Your Home While You're Away"
With many people out of town during the holidays (although how could you leave San Diego) it’s important to make sure your home is secure. While we’ve increased the budget for the County’s Sheriff’s Department, including adding more deputies out on patrol, the threat of crimina... — Updated 2/15/2024
"Two Items"
At our last board meeting, I proposed legislation for the County to take a stand against the income-based fixed-rate electricity proposal. Unfortunately, my colleagues voted against this and are in favor of charging people based on their income. The proposed fixed-rate bill fundam... — Updated 2/15/2024
"Final Board Meeting"
Our final Tuesday board meeting of the year was also our longest of the year. It took about 13 hours, but I want to thank everyone for coming down and calling in. Here is a recap of some of the good and bad from the meeting. The Board of Supervisors approved allocating another $3... — Updated 2/15/2024
"The Broken Immigration Process"
On a cool Sunday morning, border patrol vans pull into the Oceanside Transit Center releasing approximately 30 migrants from countries including Columbia, Pakistan, and China. The first question asked by most migrants is, “Where am I?” That’s just the tip of the iceberg for how t... — Updated 2/15/2024
"Fixed-Rate Electricity Proposal"
I had the opportunity to participate in the California Public Utilities Commission public meeting regarding the proposed new fixed-rate electricity plan. This proposal has sparked significant concerns, particularly for the residents of San Diego. If you’re unfamiliar with this p... — Updated 11/21/2023
"Safeguarding Our Communities in the Face of Wildfires"
In recent weeks, we’ve reveled in the tranquil weather and witnessed the advent of the Santa Ana winds, signaling a heightened risk of wildfires. While a few blazes have ignited, our gratitude extends to the tireless firefighters who swiftly contained these potentially c... — Updated 11/9/2023
"Immigration Failures"
For the past four days, we have witnessed an unprecedented influx of migrants from all corners of the world being dropped off at transit stations throughout San Diego County. At the time of writing this, over 5,000 individuals have entered our region, and the numbers show no sign... — Updated 11/9/2023