San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, who represents the Fifth District, described the Board of Supervisors’ decision to use part of the county’s budget reserves for new expenses as an “assault on taxpayers’ savings.”
“Today’s vote (August 26) is a reckless step backward for San Diego County,” Desmond stated in a release issued Tuesday.
In his view, the measure threatens the county’s financial stability by turning emergency funds into “a political slush fund” and diverting resources already committed to critical needs such as building maintenance, Sheriff’s Department vehicles, and mental health contracts.
The supervisor warned that the decision could have long-term consequences. “If this continues, San Diegans will be forced to choose between delaying maintenance, underfunding pensions, or cutting vital services,” he said.
According to Desmond, the approved plan calls for the immediate use of $40.8 million from reserves to pay staff bonuses, instead of treating it as a stable budget priority.
“Our reserves should be protected for real emergencies and long-term needs, not for shortsighted spending that endangers future generations,” he added.
In his statement, Desmond noted that the City of San Diego is currently facing a $258 million deficit and that the state has accumulated $68 billion in debt. He also pointed out that just last year, the county had to step in to assist the city after flooding, which he attributed to a lack of investment in infrastructure and financial planning.
“The people of San Diego deserve leaders who safeguard their tax dollars and prioritize public safety, infrastructure, and essential services—not risk our future for quick fixes,” Desmond asserted.