Government that works for you

By Councilman Todd Gloria

On June 8, voters approved Proposition D and affirmed the city of San Diego’s current form of governance. Called Strong Mayor, this structure mirrors that of the federal government, with separate legislative and executive branches.
As a former congressional aide, I am very familiar with the functions of a legislative branch. And I believe the San Diego City Council is growing to be a much stronger legislative force than it was in the first five years of this form of governance.
The people of District 3 have set very clear priorities to strengthen public safety and improve infrastructure. The Residents’ Opinions on City Services Survey completed in April and the budget forums held throughout the last year showed that these concerns are shared by residents throughout the city.
It is incumbent on the City Council to make definitive progress on these fronts. We have the authority and the responsibility to address our city’s deficiencies by developing smart policies and ensuring the necessary resources are available for the provision of the core services San Diegans demand.
At the same time, I need to make sure those services that you depend upon, especially public safety and infrastructure, are being delivered effectively.  Thankfully, there is progress on both fronts.
Though many people would prefer not to talk about it, prostitution has been a continuing problem throughout Mid-City. The San Diego Police Department shares my concern about this, and our vice detectives recently had great success with a prostitution-focused enforcement effort. In June, the stretch of El Cajon Boulevard between Florida and 35th streets was the site of 32 arrests for either prostitution or solicitation of prostitution. The majority of the people involved were first-time offenders. The Vice Unit continues to monitor this stretch and other problematic areas so all potential perpetrators know that we won’t tolerate crime of any kind in District 3. If you witness or suspect prostitution activities, you may call the police at (619) 531-2000 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
After making our streets safe, the conditions of the roads themselves must be addressed.  I am giddy about the street repairs and repaving projects that are going on in North Park and throughout District 3. Public works projects keep people working, stimulate the economy, and dramatically improve our quality of life.
As I remain focused on community improvements, effective policy and righting our financial ship, I will also stay honest with you about the city’s budget and about the levels of service we are providing. I encourage you to provide your feedback so my colleagues and I carry your will forward for the strong San Diego we all deserve.

Councilman Todd Gloria can be reached at the District 3 office at (619) 236-6633; Fax (619) 595-1481; e-mail: toddgloria@sandiego.gov.