Earlier in August, the City Council discussed two parking-related items that will come back for further consideration when Council reconvenes.
Item 600 provided an update on the proposed Paid Parking Program. This plan would set tiered rates in surface lots, offer discounted passes for San Diego residents, and allow free parking for park employees and volunteers. Revenue generated would go directly toward park maintenance and improvements. Concerns were voiced about making sure seniors, people with disabilities, and lower-income families are not disproportionately impacted.
Item 601 created a Parking Meter Zone for surrounding streets, including Park Boulevard and 6th Avenue. While this is a notable change, the funding collected will be reinvested into Balboa Park’s long-term upkeep. I supported this measure while stressing the importance of equitable implementation that responds to community feedback.
Special-Event Parking Rate Increases Near Petco Park
Although this update doesn’t directly affect District 4, many of us head Downtown for Padres games, concerts, and other major events at Petco Park. Beginning September 1, parking meters within roughly a half-mile of the ballpark will rise to $10 per hour during events drawing more than 10,000 attendees. The special-event rates will take effect two hours before the event and continue until four hours after it begins.
This change was approved by City Council earlier this year as part of broader efforts to update parking regulations and address the City’s budget needs. The increased rates are meant to ease congestion during high-demand times while ensuring that the revenue supports local infrastructure. While the decision required careful consideration, the intention is to strike a balance between residents, businesses, and visitors while maintaining the City’s financial stability.
Attorney General Bonta Issues Guidance to Protect Immigrants from Scams
On September 11, California Attorney General Rob Bonta released updated guidance to help immigrant communities avoid scams and access legitimate immigration services. The alert comes in response to predatory actors exploiting fear amid the Trump administration’s detention and deportation campaign. Bonta emphasized that immigrants are the “backbone of our communities” and urged Californians to seek help only from verified legal providers. Free and low-cost immigration assistance is available through LawHelpCA.org in California or ImmigrationLawHelp.org nationwide.
Access Free and Low-Cost Legal Assistance
- Visit LawHelpCA.org or ImmigrationLawHelp.org to find providers nearby.
- The U.S. Department of Justice maintains a list of accredited representatives and free legal services.
- Confirm any attorney’s license through the American Bar Association’s lawyer directory.
Protect Yourself from Immigration Scams
- Only attorneys, accredited representatives, and recognized organizations can provide legal advice or represent you in immigration court.
- Be wary of “immigration consultants,” notarios, or individuals claiming quick solutions.
- Do not give original documents to anyone without proof that the government requires them. Keep copies in a safe place.
- Never send money or personal information to people calling, texting, or emailing about immigration matters—USCIS and other agencies will not ask this way.
- Report suspicious ads or solicitations promising fast immigration help.
If You Are a Victim of Fraud
- Report scams to the California Department of Justice at oag.ca.gov/report.
- Contact your local District Attorney or consumer affairs office.
- Seek assistance from legitimate nonprofits at LawHelpCA.org.
Understanding Notario Fraud
In many Latin American countries, notarios are highly trained attorneys. In the U.S., however, notary publics only witness document signatures and are not authorized to provide immigration services. A “notario público” in the U.S. cannot represent immigrants in legal matters.
Finding Detained Loved Ones
- Locate their Alien Registration Number (A-Number) or search by name at locator.ice.gov.
- For detention facility information, visit ice.gov/detention-facilities.
- Use the A-Number to check court hearings at acis.eoir.justice.gov.
Tenant Utility Fee Ordinance
The City Council has adopted the Residential Tenant Utility Fee Ordinance, which took effect on August 17, 2025. This new law strengthens protections for renters by making sure landlords cannot charge tenants more than the actual cost of City-provided utilities, including water, sewer, stormwater, and trash services.
Under the ordinance, landlords must give tenants advance notice before adding any utility fees, share copies of utility bills or documentation within 10 days upon request, and clearly itemize any third-party billing charges. These requirements are designed to increase accountability and ensure tenants know exactly what they are being charged for.
This policy is part of the City’s broader effort to safeguard renters, promote housing stability, and guarantee fairness and transparency in monthly expenses for families in District 4 and throughout San Diego.
For more details on the ordinance, scroll down to Item 56 https://sandiego.hylandcloud.com/211agendaonlinecouncil/Meetings/ViewMeeting?id=6612&doctype=1.
