Councilwoman's View: Budget talks, neighbors working together
May 21, 2009
Sherri Lightner
BY SHERRI LIGHTNER In this challenging economy, I'm glad neighbors are working together on so many projects. I've had the privilege of participating in several events recently, including the La Jolla Half Marathon on April 26 and the 14th Annual Rancho Penasquitos Fiesta on May 3.
We've also worked with Carmel Valley to implement several traffic calming measures, including a longer passenger loading zone, warning signs, and separate parking and travel lanes to improve safety for children on Torrington Street near Del Mar Pines School.
I was pleased to join many of you on May 9 for the two year anniversary of the Police Department's Northwestern Division (at 12592 El Camino Real) serving the communities of Sorrento Valley, Torrey Preserve, Del Mar Heights, Carmel Valley, North City, Torrey Highlands and Black Mountain Ranch. Northwestern Division will soon have a new captain because Kathy Healey is retiring after 32 years. If you have an opportunity, please thank Capt. Healey for her years of dedicated service.
As we progress through budget deliberations, I have worked hard to improve efficiencies and to keep police and fire rescue, libraries, park and recreation centers, and pothole repair among our top priorities. I reduced my staff budget by 12 percent in December when I assumed office, and have cut an additional 6 percent for next year's budget, even though my staff works well in excess of 50 hours each week.
The city has declared a mandatory Level 2 Drought Alert. I'm interested in your ideas for equitably reducing water consumption. June 1, mandatory water restrictions will start. For more information on the restrictions, please visit www.sandiego.gov/water, or join us for a Water Department briefing. (Details are on the Web site.)
Please contact our office if you have questions, ideas or if we can help, (619) 236-6611 or sherrilightner@sandiego.gov
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