Overview

• The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted 2-1-1 to reject a proposal to reform its reserve policy, with two Democrats in support, one Republican opposed, and one Republican abstaining.
• The proposal, introduced by Supervisors Lawson-Remer and Montgomery Steppe, sought to redefine reserves and unlock $380 million to protect core services from potential state and federal budget cuts.
• Opponents, including Supervisor Desmond, argued the reform was fiscally irresponsible and risked depleting emergency funds meant for crises like wildfires or economic downturns.
• The county's $8.62 billion recommended budget for 2025-26, which includes 190 position cuts, moves forward under the existing reserve policy.
• The board's current four-member composition, following a December resignation, heightens the importance of the upcoming July special election to fill the vacant seat.