Voice of San Diego Podcast: Recent Episodes
Voice of San Diego
This is Voice of San Diego’s weekly spitfire roundup of news. We cover local and regional politics, the environment, education, the border and more. This show features our investigative reporting and interviews with lawmakers and other special guests.
Del Mar's city council cut its summer recess short this week for an emergency meeting — and came out of it asking for criminal investigations into California Attorney General Rob Bonta and a Del Mar Fairgrounds board member.
At the center of it all is Seaside Ridge, a 249-unit housing project proposed for Del Mar's North Bluff. A resident's letter raised questions about ties between the fairgrounds board member and a string of warning letters Bonta sent pressuring Del Mar to approve it — and despite formally referring the matter for investigation, city officials insist they're not accusing anyone of wrongdoing.
Also on the show: A downtown gas station sidestepped pedestrian-safety rules with the help of a $15,000 lobbyist, the city closed public restrooms in Mission Bay while funding new playgrounds nearby, and we debuted our first-ever Summer playlist.
0:00 The Great Encinitas Parking Panic
5:10 Mission Bay's New Playgrounds, Closed Bathrooms
6:17 How San Diego Funds Mission Bay
10:46 No More Driveways on Market Street
11:59 A Gas Station With Seven Driveways
17:34 The $15K Lobbyist Who Changed the Vote
21:08 How City Lobbying Actually Works
28:51 Del Mar Demands an Investigation
38:02 Debuting Our Summer Playlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Forget the birds and other environmental impacts, are taller buildings messing with lunar cycles?
On this week’s show, our hosts explain how a proposed bill would stop building height from being treated as a significant environmental impact under state law.
State Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson spoke about SB 958 at a committee hearing in June and explained how environmental laws have sometimes been used to slow housing projects. She cited Midway Rising and litigation that has stood in the project’s way.
“Despite years of analysis and multiple EIRs, the most recent ruling from the California's fourth district court of appeal determined that environmental review when related to building height needed to include aspects that were not typically analyzed, including impacts on airflow, atmospheric conditions, lunar cycles, and wildlife attraction,” she said.
Lunar cycles? Co-host Scott Lewis explains what’s at stake and why we’re going to keep talking about SB 958.
Also on the show: The state is moving forward with a mesh barrier to deter suicides on the Coronado Bridge. They also plan to install AI cameras.
00:00:00 - The Padres Poncho Debate
00:04:15 - Politicians Performing: Bill Wells' Band & Scott Peters' Pull-Ups
00:08:47 - Mission Bay Restroom Closures & El Niño Budgeting 00:18:47 - SB 958, Midway Rising, and Lunar Cycles
00:26:28 - Politifest 2026 Announcement
00:28:03 - Coronado Bridge Suicide Prevention & AI Cameras
00:37:16 - Sea Lions in La Jolla & The Viral Kicking Video
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest episode, our hosts tackle everything from Comic-Con building wraps to California’s housing crisis.
First up! A proposal to give Chula Vista City Council members raises crashed and burned following public outcry and quid pro quo allegations from the mayor.
Then: While special education enrollment numbers explode everywhere, a school district in Del Mar is seeing a 43 percent drop. Jakob McWhinney explains the trend.
Finally, Will Huntsberry joins the show to explain why it takes years and a lot of money to build affordable housing. Plus, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to streamline affordable housing funding.
00:00:00 - Salad Scares, Cold Shrimp, & Comic-Con Building Wraps
00:09:13 - Chula Vista's Failed Charter Reform & Cardenas Rumors
00:25:12 - PoliticsFest, Mailbag, & Set Updates
00:28:18 - Del Mar’s Unprecedented Special Education Drop
00:41:04 - Fixing the High Cost of California Affordable Housing
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There's nothing worse than needing a restroom and not being able to find one. San Diego just made it a lot harder to find one.
On this edition of the podcast, Scott Lewis was back and wanted to share his thoughts on how bad the cities decision is to close down public restrooms. The crew also discussed why public restrooms are so important with the recent outbreak of Cyclospora across the country.
Finally, we talk about a rushed charter reform effort in Chula Vista backed by a major labor union. The proposed measure would extend council term limits and increase council members' salaries to $110,000, all with minimal public input.
- 00:00 - Intro: Cyclospora & Explosive Diarrhea
- 03:20 - Meet the Team & The Parking Ticket
- 04:26 - The Truth About the Lettuce Parasite
- 07:55 - The Public Restroom Crisis & Mission Bay
- 15:10 - The Voice of San Diego Summer Playlist
- 22:25 - Politifest Announcement & Donor Shoutouts
- 24:40 - County Contracting Embezzlement Scandal
- 30:45 - Chula Vista's Rushed Charter Reform
- 39:10 - Outro & Credits
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the world gives you solar panels, you must use them. But not if the power companies have anything to say about it.
Environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer drops in to discuss SB 868, a bill that would legalize easy, plug-in balcony solar panels for renters and condo owners. Local utility companies like SDG&E are pushing back, citing worker safety concerns regarding power "back-feeding" into lines, despite zero documented injuries on record.
- 00:00 - Intro & Mexico's Soccer Loss
- 07:35 - Measure C & Homelessness Funding
- 17:42 - San Diego Unified's $3.5B School Bond
- 33:00 - Plug-In Solar Panels & Utility Pushback
- 44:42 - Politifest Announcement
- 48:20 - Listener Shoutouts & Kelly Davis Tribute
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The federal government has made some big promises but can it deliver?
On the latest episode of the VOSD Podcast, co-host Jakob McWhinney reveals that San Diego schools are experiencing a boom in special education enrollment.
At the same time, there are fewer kids enrolled at local schools today than 10 years ago. That means many schools are seeing a drop in funding. Those two trends are putting a lot of pressure on schools, McWhinney explains.
The feds at some point promised to help schools with the cost of special education, but some wonder if that will ever happen.
Also on the show: Seventy-five years ago, the feds admitted that the jetties they built for a military base were contributing to Oceanside’s disappearing beaches.
Now, for the first time in a long time, they seem to be moving forward with a plan to restore sand to the city's beaches. North County reporter Tigist Layne joins us on the show to explain.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Robots are now coming for our schools.
OK, maybe not yet. But education reporter Jakob McWhinney did find one school that's giving them a shot.
The hybrid charter network Altus Schools recently spent half a million dollars on two ChatGPT-powered humanoid robots called Ameca. School officials say they're not trying to replace teachers, but some experts have flagged a whole slew of concerns about the mechanical intrusion into education.
Here is what Jakob learned:
"People who develop technology have long said the goal is never to replace teachers until it is. But these sorts of systems do supplant teachers," McWhinney said.
Also on the show: Co-host Scott Lewis explains a complex deal struck over state ballot measures. The crew also gabs about a company working to eradicate the algae that has infested Washington D.C.'s Reflecting Pool and why it may ring a bell with locals.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The VOSD Podcast crew was back in their usual episode structure but this time breaking in their brand-new Alice and Doug Diamond Studio in downtown San Diego!
On this week's episode, investigative reporter Jim Hinch joins the podcast to unpack his extensive reporting on the abrupt, messy exit of Chula Vista's highly esteemed police chief, Roxana Kennedy. What started as a seemingly harmless incident at a workplace Christmas party spiraled into a multi-layered legal war and involved another twist no one saw coming.
Also on the show: La Jolla secession moves towards the ballot, the county knew of an executive's embezzlement history, and much more!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The VOSD Podcast crew took the show on the road and had a LIVE podcast at Soda Bar and had special guest District 9 City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera along for the episode.
They discussed Measure A and the results, the Padres opposing local minimum wage increases, and whether or not he is considering running for mayor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the latest episode of the Voice of San Diego podcast, the crew takes a deep dive into the aftermath of the recent primary elections. From Ammar Campa-Najjar declaring an end to his political career to shifts in local political power, we break down what the results actually mean for the future of San Diego and California.
Want to discuss the results in person? The crew is hosting a live podcast recording on June 11th at the Soda Bar in City Heights, featuring special guest Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera and a Padres ticket giveaway. Go to voiceofsandiego.org/events to get your tickets!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! For us at least.
It’s California Primary season and we bring back our Voice of San Diego Primary Election draft. Each of our hosts went through and picked the races they were most curious and interested in.
Andrea highlights the wide-open City Council District 8 race featuring four Democratic candidates.
Jakob tracks how the California Teachers Association is spending millions to back Richard Barrera.
Bella is watching the proposed tax on non-primary and corporate-owned homes and thinks it will pass due to anti-billionaire sentiment, despite a lot of realtor pushback.
Scott details how Carl DeMaio is using strategic expenditures and deceptive voter guides in the State Senate District 50 and Board of Supervisors District 5 races to settle political grudges.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this weeks episode of the VOSD Podcast we tackle some tough subjects and reveal a surprsiing deal the city made in regards to the trash fee.
Islamic Center Tragedy: We discuss a horrific terrorist attack at an Islamic Center in Clairemont, where two teenagers killed three men before taking their own lives. The victims—a security guard, a neighbor, and a store manager—were praised as heroes for stopping the shooters and saving the approximately 140 children attending school inside the mosque.
Major City Hall Compromise: We break down a massive political deal regarding the city's contentious trash fee and paid parking at Balboa Park. The city agreed to return free parking to Balboa Park by the end of the year and reduce the planned trash fee increase, capping it at $38.75 a month by 2027 instead of $55. In exchange, the Lincoln Club and local attorneys agreed to drop their ballot measure repeal campaign and end their ongoing litigation against the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When you have questions about county reform, you go straight to the source.
This week on the Voice of San Diego Podcast, Scott Lewis, Jakob McWhinney, and Bella Ross are joined by San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair Terra Lawson-Remer to discuss massive county charter reforms, infrastructure lockboxes, and what it’s really like navigating dating apps as a public official.
Plus: The crew dives into the massive gamble City Council is taking by rejecting the trash fee settlement, the devastating proposed closures of public restrooms across San Diego beaches and parks, and are we at peak "dorkitude" of California’s governor candidates?
0:00 Intro
2:42 Surviving Campaign Mailer Season & Personal Boundaries
3:28 District 2 Mailer Breakdown: Josh Coyne & Richard Bailey
7:03 The City's Big Bet: Rejecting the Trash Fee Settlement
12:10 Peak Dorkitude: Grading CA Governor Candidate Interviews
23:46 Public Restrooms in San Diego
29:26 County Charter Reform: The IBA & Power Rebalancing
38:02 The 3-Term Limit Debate for Sitting Supervisors
56:14 Tijuana River Sewage Crisis: The Half-Cent Sales Tax Measure
1:00:24 NAD Bank Partnership & Funding the Sewage Solutions
1:04:41 The 10-Year Tijuana River Surfing Pledge
Support Local, Independent Journalism!
Stay up to date with the Morning Report and our in-depth investigative reporting:
👉 Visit our website: https://voiceofsandiego.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There will be one very mad podcast host if the Tijuana River Sewage problem is not resolved by 2036. That podcast host is Scott Lewis.
We bet you’ll be shocked to learn signature gatherers could not answer a reporter’s question about the change they were seeking. We talk about why they can’t explain what’s happening with the Tijuana River crisis at the border.
Also on the show: California agreed with Midway Rising developers that they never needed to get rid of the height limit in Midway, even though the city put it on the ballot twice just to support them. We’ll explain.
Plus: It's mailer season and District 2 has a pretty good competition shaping up. Bella Ross walks us through District 2 city council candidates and what she took away from the things she learned.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego's budget could be in a lot of trouble if voters repeal the city's trash fee.
City leaders say if that happens, their only option would be to cut up to $150 million from city services like stormwater, fire and police departments. Our hosts explain what's at stake.
Also on the show: The county governance reforms are marching forward. But one state Senator says her fellow Democrats need to change the plan before it goes on the ballot.
Finally: Former Voice of San Diego reporter Ashly McGlone stopped by to talk about her new project Reconnaissance Man.
Before the Vietnam War America knows, James Lyle Steele, an original Marine reconnaissance man, was in it. Operating at the leading edge of a brutal, evolving conflict — poisoned bamboo, booby traps, tunnels, ambushes, and helicopter assaults— he faced a war that demanded constant vigilance. This episode offers Steele's firsthand account of the war before most Americans realized it had begun, detailing the constant, deadly reality of his experience.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest episode, our hosts talk about some local issues that impact us all.
First: County supervisors have officially put a measure on the ballot that will extend term limits of county supervisors. But it’s way more interesting than that. We explain.
Next: The mayor of San Diego has put out a new proposed budget. It’s got some folks mad. But it was always going to do that. We'll give you our thoughts.
Also on the show: The podcast crew gave you some alternative options, sort of, for the upcoming California governor election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest show, our podcasts hosts discuss the topic of broken promises.
First up: A temporary fire station in San Diego is still temporary 11 years after elected officials promised to deliver a permanent fire station in Skyline.
Next: School district officials promised to fix the plumbing at a local school, but three different campaigns for tax increases later and it’s still not fixed.
Also on the show: Last week when we recorded, U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell was the frontrunner in the governor’s race. But after bombshell sexual assault allegations surfaced, he’s dropped out of the race and left Congress. The canceling happened at warp speed. We give our uninformed thoughts on the governor’s race.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego County Supervisor Terra Lawson Remer wants to stay in office longer and wants other reforms that would “improve transparency.” On this week's show, our podcast hosts explain the whole package she plans to propose to San Diego voters.
It’s all coming at a time when county officials continue to fight us on the release of public records. We are suing the county and our hosts offer more details about our fight to get records released.
Also on the show: Could the city of San Diego lose Liberty Station? There is a real possibility this could happen. We talk about the potential outcomes.
Plus, believe it or not we have more news on the Midway district saga.
Finally, South County reporter Jim Hinch joins us to update us on Chula Vista politics!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When your neighbors don't like nudity, head to a nudist colony!
On today's episode, Andrea, Bella, and Jakob talked about a lot of different topics today and even got to mention yellow thong bikini bottoms.
In the first season of HBO's TV show Neighbors, episode six features a local man who believes he is being wronged by his neighbors and others around San Diego. Why? He likes to work out in the front yard of his property which has neighbors concerned.
San Diego Unified teachers approved a tentative agreement that grants them five percent raises over the next two years and other perks, but our Jakob McWhinney has been following some of the drama behind the deal.
Also on the show: MacKenzie Elmer joined us to discuss her story on why humans may be to blame for the orphaning of two bear cubs in Monrovia, California.
After three years of reporting...and waiting...we have one more quick Petco Park concession scandal update after the attorney general of California sued the ringleaders of the scheme to try to recover the money.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With Andrea and Bella out, Scott Lewis, Jakob McWhinney, and Will Huntsberry held it down.
Former County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher is re-emerging post-controversy, holding a press conference, giving speeches, and launching a Substack, "Grounded," about his life on a family ranch.
The Padres' strong season and high franchise value ($3.5B+) fuel sale rumors. Potential bidders include Dan Friedkin, Jose Feliciano, Joe Lacob, and Tom Gores.
SB 958 has been filed to exempt the 4,200-home Midway Rising project (including an arena) from CEQA, bypassing potential traffic-related legal challenges.
City staff discovered that Chicano Park and a nearby property intended for the Boston Avenue Linear Park were incorrectly zoned for commercial use in the 2021 community plan. The errors came to light when community members questioned the potential sale of one of the sites by Caltrans to Soapy Joe’s car wash. City Council recently voted to correct the zoning to reflect the intended park use.
San Diego has a water surplus and is selling it, including a deal to provide 10,000 acre-feet annually to Temecula, expected to net $100 million over five years.
San Diego's One America News Network filed a restraining order against influencer Chelsea Goss (Gods) after she protested Matt Gaetz's hiring; Goss responded with an anti-SLAPP motion.
2:21 Nathan Fletcher re-ermerges
6:10 #Padres Opening Day and new potential buyer announced
22:09 Midway Rising files to be exempt from CEQA
32:25 We can't do this without you!
33:22 Chicano Park zoning issue
44:28 San Diego's selling water!
59:52 OANN vs Chelsea Gods
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It has been nearly two years since Scott Wahl became San Diego top cop.
For the latest VOSD Podcast episode, our hosts Scott Lewis and Andrea Sanchez-Villafaña sat down with Chief Wahl to discuss policing and more.
With the federal governments immigration enforcement efforts, what is the San Diego Police Department's the role? Are officers prepared for possible attacks from Iran?
License plate readers are just one of the many tools police have to investigate crimes. What do license plate readers know about us? How often are we being watched by technology? And can AI help the police department be more efficient?
Plus: How does the department handle misconduct investigations? And, what changes has Chief Wahl implemented to reduce police overtime?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Who knew selling hot dogs at Petco Park was such a money making venture?
After two years and lots of investigating, VOSD's Will Huntsberry saw the finish line for his story which uncovered a fake nonprofit running concessions at Petco Park - and pocketing around $2 million. He explains what the news is and what it feels like to make a difference.
Also on the show: We get into a really big news week for local politics with longtime Republican Rep. Darrell Issa announcing he will not seek reelection. The podcast crew talks about what that means. Plus, Scott Lewis wants to know why people can't put their phone down at concerts.
Finally, the local nonprofit that prosecutors say stole county money has provoked questions about county oversight. A "special review" is now underway. We'll explain.
We're on YouTube now! Watch the podcast at youtube.com/voiceofsandiego.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's episode Scott Lewis and Jakob McWhinney sit down with San Diego Unified School Board members Cody Petterson and Shana Hazan. They talk about the current challenges facing San Diego schools, declining enrollment, budget issues, and how they want to make San Diego schools succeed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's episode we span all over the news world from sports, to politics, to parking meters.
The second home tax is back. This time it spares vacation rentals. However, it’s on a fast track to the ballot. We tell you how it will work.
Lisa Halverstadt had a big update after prosecutors said they believe a nonprofit executive may have misallocated even more funds meant to save people from overdoses of fentanyl and heroin.
The crew talked about former Coronado Mayor Richard Bailey running for city council last week and this week Scott reached out and shared some further clarifications for Bailey's future.
A Padres pitcher had an unfortunate injury in Spring Training but Scott Lewis decided to take this opportunity for a little PSA.
Finally, our intern Rami Alarian joined us to talk about his story about police using helicopters to break up college house parties.
We are on YouTube now! Watch the podcast and see Bella's videos at youtube.com/voiceofsandiego,
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is it time we take a serious look at "slopulism?"
Let us explain. The New York Times featured San Diego's Amy Reichert in a story after she teamed up with Youtuber Nick Shirley to try to uncover fraud in San Diego child care facilities. Shirley's previous coverage of the topic went viral in Minneapolis. The newspaper defined their political posts as slopulism. Related: After Shirley's visit to San Diego, our reporters explained what he did and did not find here.
Top story: Our Lisa Halverstadt broke the news that Amy Knox, who had managed the Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego’s finances, was charged with three felony counts of misappropriation of public money and three felony counts of fraudulent appropriation for allegedly using nonprofit funds for plastic surgeries, high-end clothes, a vacation to Hawaii and more.
Also on the show: Former Coronado Mayor Richard Bailey announced he is going to be running for San Diego City Council.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When someone tells you they don't have information, dig a little deeper.
On this week's episode the VOSD Podcast crew broke down Jakob McWhinney's reporting on some startling stats on how empty San Diego Unified School district schools are. Yet another chapter in the enrollment crisis they refuse to discuss.
The Republican Party in San Diego used to have big meetings and lots of influence in town. Now, not so much. We give our thoughts on the state of the Republican party in San Diego.
Also on the podcast: Bad Bunny's Super Bowl hafltime show was controversial, but we think President Donald Trump could have used to this to score some points. Also, we talk about the guy who touched off chaos in Minnesota with his video alleging widespread fraud. He came to San Diego. We tell you what we know about what he actually found and did not find.
We are on YouTube now! Watch our podcasts every Friday by visting youtube.com/voiceofsandiego.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Changing term limits may not just be a national news story. San Diego now has an attempt to change term limits.
Our own Lisa Halverstadt dug in and reported on a county supervisor considering pushing reforms that may include electing a county mayor. In other words there’d be a mayor and a mayor. Our hosts tells you what everything means and what has to happen.
The Epstein Files are proving to include many, many, many high profile "leaders". Jakob McWhinney went down the rabbit hole and explained why one of San Diego's own was found in the files, and what was being alleged.
Also on the show: Sheel Seidler drops majority of claims in her lawsuit which should pave the way for a sale of the team. We discussed the H barracks parking situation and found a little more information as to why people can't park there during the day.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The temperature seems to be rising, and it has nothing to do with weather. Whether it's immigration or short-term rentals, things are heating up.
In this week's episode our hosts were joined by chair of the San Diego Democratic Party, Will Rodriguez-Kennedy to discuss issues we will likely talk about in 2026.
First, last Friday activists barricaded themselves in Mayor Todd Gloria's office to protest ICE presence in San Diego. Bella Ross broke down what the role of SDPD is if and when a similar situation to Minneapolis descends on San Diego.
There is a growing problem in San Diego in regards to a housing shortage in San Diego while short term rentals are being bought up by public investment firms. Our hosts discuss what the city needs to do to protect housing while allowing these businesses to operate.
Finally, Will Rodriguez-Kennedy gave his thoughts on some of the upcoming political races in 2026. He also gave a little behind the scenes look into how political candidates are handled when it may be time to drop out of their respective race.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego’s mayor had one message for the city: We are at a pivotal point in San Diego's history.
On the latest episode, our hosts talk about Todd Gloria's State of the City address and the topics he covered. Can the city move the needle on redeveloping the Sports Arena and Golden Hall? Are the convention center's modernization plans going to be actual modern improvements? Our hosts break it down.
Also on the show: San Diego Unified’s longtime school board trustee is ready to get a promotion. He’s eying the state superintendent seat.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Just three weeks into 2026 and the VOSD Podcast is firing on all cylinders. Today's episode features many different topics, including a look into something host Scott Lewis could not believe was happening, and may even think it provides some vindication for one San Diego figure.
It's the most wonderful time of the year! Ok, maybe not, but with 2026 underway we were all looking ahead to Mayor Todd Gloria's State of the City address. Our own Will Hunstberry published a deep look into how leaders of San Diego feel Mayor Gloria has done since last year's State of the City address.
Bella Ross took a look at the San Diego River and the developments built on the flood plain, which can cause major problems for homes and businesses when San Diego gets heavy rain. Plus, why is there always one person who gets stuck in a flooded street near Fashion Valley?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We had 3 of the 4 member of the show in for the first traditional episode of 2026. Scott, Jakob, and Bella discussed the hottest issue to hit San Diego in 2026...BALBOA PARK PARKING FEES. Plus, they get into the crowds that swarmed the tide pools, RV parking at the beach, and a decision on the Midway District height limit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
To start the new year the VOSD Podcast decided to have Scott Lewis sit down with Amy Reichert. Amy is a member of the Republican party and has run for several diffferent offices in San Diego. As a licensed private investigator, she is now reporting on local issues in San Diego.
Scott talked with her about the current state of the Republican party, her feuds with Carl DeMaio over the years, her efforts with Restore San Diego, and a lot more on local issues that face all San Diegans.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the year draws to a close, we've revisited some major stories for updates. Bella provided a follow-up on an earlier video she created, and Jakob gave us the latest on what may have been the year's most clicked story: bots scamming colleges. Enjoy the rest of your holiday season!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We were down one member of the show with Andrea Sanchez-Villafaña out for this show but don't worry Scott, Bella, and Jakob held it down. They talked about an unfortunate misprint in the San Diego Union Tribune, but it may be indicative of a bigger problem. San Diego County is collecting signatures to qualify a half-cent countywide sales tax increase for the November 2026 ballot. The crew talked about the year ahead in local politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's episode of the VOSD Podcast covers a wide variety of very unique topics. First, the San Dieguito Union High School District is taking heat for a 24 hour live broadcast they allowed in a high school gym. The County of San Diego moved some money around to cover county bonuses. Finally, the San Diego Unified School Distract is at a loss for one of their projects.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's episode of the VOSD Podcast we have a lot of juicy topics to discuss. Is Congressman Darrell Issa going to run....in Texas? Will corporate backing of a trash tax repeal push the repeal forward? And Beef Week was in full swing, and our very own Bella Ross, Jakob McWhinney, and Jim Hinch brought their stories to the podcast.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The VOSD Podcast crew was without their fearless leader Scott Lewis this week, but Andrea Sanchez-Villafaña held it down and led us all through the news of the week. The pod crew talked about chickens as pets, county taxes, and some news stories that are safe to talk about at the dinner table.
Have you ever walked past a neighbor's house and heard chickens clucking from their backyard? Well, Andrea now has chickens and she gave the rest of the crew the rules and regulations set forth by the city of San Diego.
Some quick updates: The group pushing for a county sales tax are moving forward with their effort and we talked about what to expect. The San Diego Zoo is now going to charge for parking. Plus, a preview of Voice of San Diego's Beef Week!
With the holidays coming up Andrea, Jakob and Bella took turns talking about some different stories you can share with your family. But that wasn't all! They ranked each story by how safe the subject was for those holiday family functions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's episode of the VOSD Podcast, we had a grand old time at Soda Bar for our latest live podcast Brews and News. The crew were able to get San Diego State Athletic Director John David Wicker to sit down for an hour to discuss a lot about San Diego State Athletics!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest VOSD Podcast episode, our hosts get into the Padres exploring a sale, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria makes some changes on his staff, Scott takes a math test, and a deeper look into Prop 36.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the latest VOSD Podcast episode, our hosts get into the rise and fall of a Poway councilmember and how San Diego Unified has been unable to keep kids enrolled in their neighborhood school. Also, will the city of San Diego’s most ambitions development project in Midway rise?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This weeks edition of the Voice of San Diego Podcast has some big decisions being made in the city of San Diego.
The San Diego City Council approves a water rate hike for two years instead of four. How does that affect you? The county supervisors are trying to balance the budget behind closed doors. Jakob details the approval of safe parking by San Diego Unified and what it means for the future. Plus, La Jolla scores a big win against the city of San Diego.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The newest fight at City Hall is a doozy. It’s about that new tax announced at Politifest. It could be up to $5,000 per bedroom for a second home or vacation rental and it’s going to be a fascinating political battle. We’ll explain
The big development at Sports Arena is once again falling apart because of the city’s inability to not trip over itself. We’ll explain why the project leaders and city officials think they can still build it.
Plus, the city of San Diego is trying to protect people from ICE raids and stop the police from helping. We’ll examine what exactly they’re trying to do.
SHOW NOTES
BANTER
UT - Property Tax Bills - What’s That???
Thousands of city of San Diego residents have flooded county offices over concern about increased property taxes but, in some cases, there is a simple explanation: trash.
After decades of offering trash collection for free, city of San Diego will now charge many residents for trash collection. Residents got their first-ever annual trash charge of $523.20 in property tax bills that went out in early October.
San Diego County Assessor Jordan Marks said his office, and the tax collector’s, have been inundated with in-person visits and phone calls about higher bills. He said there have been more than 2,000 inquiries over the charge, but it was hard to pinpoint an exact number because it’s been a steady stream for weeks. Residents who call the office, at 619-236-3771, get sent to an automated phone tree with the first option to ask about the trash fee.
“The city of San Diego levied and controls this trash fee on your property tax bills,” says a voice recording. “They are the only party that can answer your important questions and address your issues.”
SEGMENT 1 - Court Ruling
Morning Report: Mayor: ‘Failure I s Not an Option’ for Midway Project
Three days after the 4th District Court of Appeal once again threw out a voter-approved measure that lifted the building height limit for the Midway neighborhood, it was still not clear what it meant for the nearly $4 billion development project at the city’s Sports Arena land. The mayor said…
Twice, in five years, the city of San Diego has put on the ballot a measure to lift the height limit in the Midway neighborhood. Twice, voters approved it. And, now twice, a Court has thrown it all out because the city didn’t fully study the measures’ impact to the environment.
SEGMENT 2 - Vacation Property Tax
Vacation Home Tax Moves Forward
San Diego Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera’s proposal to tax vacation homes and empty second homes is moving forward.
Battle Lines Drawn on Vacation Rental Tax
Wednesday, the Rules Committee for the San Diego City Council will consider Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera’s push for a tax on empty second homes and vacation rentals.
Basics:
- 10K homes
- Half second homes. Half vacation rentals
- They can tell based on tax rolls
Won’t affect anyone renting out bedroom or normal landlords - Won’t affect ADUs on “accessories” to main property
SEGMENT 3
ICE (baby) Local Ordinance - Bella’s vid
KPBS - San Diego City Council passes ordinance restricting SDPD from ICE collaboration
Citing a spike in Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids and arrests, the San Diego City Council unanimously gave tentative approval to an ordinance Monday intended to prevent local law enforcement from joining certain federal task forces.
The Due Process and Safety Ordinance will set "clear legal boundaries that protect residents, workers, and visitors regardless of immigration status, gender identity, disability, or healthcare decisions," according to a staff document from Councilman Sean Elo-Rivera's office.
City staff will meet with recognized employee organizations such as the San Diego Police Officers Association to ensure the SDPD will be able to effectively do its job without joining certain task forces led by the federal government.
Elo-Rivera, who sponsored the ordinance, thanked the dozens of people who spoke at the meeting and acknowledged that many in the community may not have felt safe to speak out.
"We can't promise that the federal government won't make your nightmares a reality," he said to young residents in the council chamber waiting for the vote. "I so badly wish I could make that promise to you. Every day the Trump regime makes good on its promise of cruelty, hatred and vindictiveness."
CREDITS
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Registrar of Voters has made a dramatic change to how it evaluates signatures on petitions. A bunch of high-profile signature gathering campaigns have fallen apart in San Diego and it may not have been just because they were incompetent. This is a big change.
One of those campaigns was to raise a tax to fund an expansion of the Convention Center. It failed spectacularly. But then another initiative made the ballot in 2020 and courts have finally decided that voters actually approved it. But the Convention Center expansion is not happening.
And finally it continues to deal with enrollment declines, the San Diego Unified School District does not know or won’t say exactly how many students each school can fit.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - POLITIFEST ROUNDUP
Scott and Co. banter about the October 4, 2025 edition of Politifest, aka the festival of politics at the University of San Diego.
SEGMENT 2 - SDUSD’S UNKNOWN SCHOOL CAPACITY
VOSD -San Diego Unified Doesn’t Know How Many Students Each School Can Fit
As districts across the county grapple with enrollment decline that will likely get worse in coming decades, San Diego Unified officials say they don’t actually know what the capacity is for each of the district’s schools.
SEGMENT 3 - REGISTRAR OF VOTERS MAY HAVE BEEN TOO STRICT
Registrar of Voters Suddenly Made It Easier to Qualify Ballot Measures with Signatures
After decades of imposing a strict, unforgiving interpretation of compliance with petitions, the Registrar of Voters has quietly updated its guidance.
SEGMENT 4 - CONVENTION CENTER
San Diego Finally Secures Hundreds of Millions for a Convention Center Expansion; But It Isn’t Expanding the Convention Center
After 20 years of failed signature gathering efforts, court battles and legally questionable efforts to raise hotel-room taxes, the city of San Diego has finally secured hundreds of millions of dollars for a long-planned expansion of the San Diego Convention Center.
But city officials are not going to do it.
CREDITS
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we revisit the Politifest 2025 Showdown awards at the Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice Theater on the beautifual campus of the University of San Diego. We have games, and plenty of solutions for our beleagured and beloved city on this week's podcast.
SHOW NOTES
Here are all the videos from last weekend's Politifest 2025
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - POLITIFEST
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
Politics Report: Politifest Brain
My politics mind has been focused on Politifest this week.
When we started Politifest in 2011, I envisioned an idyllic outdoor party – beer garden, tug of wars (tugs of war?), dunk tank, exhibits — where politics could be the central feature. Over time, it evolved into a day-long collection of debates and panel discussions.
The tugs of war didn’t draw the crowd but the debates did.
This year, we have taken another step in its evolution. You’ll have to help us decide if this mutation survives.
Solutions Showdown: We made each session a problem and asked participants to present their solution. They will present their solutions and then the moderator will manage a good discussion between them and then the audience will vote on a winner.
SEGMENT 2 - EDDIE VEDDERGATE
Vedder Cup
Eddie Vedder leads "Wrigley Field in Take Me Out To The Ballgame"
SEGMENT 3 - COUNTY PHARMACY CHIEF’S MOONLIGHTING POSES QUESTIONS
VOSD - County’s Pharmacy Chief Also Works at a Law Firm
The county of San Diego’s chief pharmacy officer, who collects a $232,419 yearly salary, moonlights as a partner at a New York-based law firm that advises pharmaceutical companies.
SEGMENT 4 - KENT LEE
San Diego’s Water Department Is Not Alright
If the San Diego City Council doesn’t pass water rate increases, the city will probably have to lay off Public Utilities Staff, analysts say.
SEGMENT 5 - UNCHARTED WATERS
Mayor’s Water Rate Increase ‘Dead on Arrival’
San Diego city councilmembers join forces to stall a proposed rate increase even though city staff warn too much delay could risk staff layoffs or falling behind on debt repayments.
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Next week the San Diego City council will vote on a series of new water rate increases. But city hall is abuzz that they may not have the votes to pass them. If they don’t, we’re entering uncharted waters.
We have an update on San Diego Unified School District’s decision to close the middle school portions of some K through 8 schools. They’ve already backtracked on one.
And finally South Bay reporter Jim Hinch has a fascinating story out of National City. How a falling out between friends came to dominate small town politics.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - POLITIFEST
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - LEONARDO DI CAPRIO WAS IN TOWN AND DIDN’T SAY HI
County News Center - New Blockbuster Already a Big Hit in San Diego County
It doesn’t arrive in theaters until Friday, but a new blockbuster movie generating Oscar buzz has already been a big financial hit for San Diego County.
“One Battle After Another,” a new Warner Bros. movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro, Sean Penn and others, spent about six weeks filming on location in San Diego County in 2024. And it pumped nearly $7 million into the local economy, according to Warner Bros. accounting.
The movie was written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, best known for his 2007 film, “There Will Be Blood,” 2012’s “The Master,” and 2014’s “Inherent Vice.” His new movie stars DiCaprio as an aging, in-hiding, former revolutionary who is pushed into trying to save his teenage daughter by the return of an old enemy, Sean Penn’s “Col. Lockjaw.”
SEGMENT 3 - MATT VESPI
Port of San Diego - Matt Vespi Will Join the Port of San Diego as Chief Administrative Officer
Port of San Diego President and CEO Scott Chadwick has appointed Matthew Vespi as the Port’s new chief administrative officer. Vespi has over 20 years of public sector experience including oversight of human resources, information technology, employee safety, labor standards and enforcement, performance and analytics, strategic planning, and more.
SEGMENT 4 - MIDDLE SCHOOL
San Diego Unified Superintendent Walks Back One of Four K-8 Middle School Closures
After we reported San Diego Unified’s plan to cut middle school grades at four of its K-8 schools, district leaders have decided to keep one open. Still, three others are slated for closure.
SEGMENT 5 - UNCHARTED WATERS
City Staff Deflect Blame Away from Pure Water Before San Diego’s Big Water Rate Vote
City staff dropped updated costs of a huge wastewater-to-drinking water recycling project showing that its water would be cheaper than buying from the Water Authority.
Segment 6 - NATIONAL CITY TELENOVELAA Broken Friendship Is Breaking National City Hall
A development dispute has spiraled into a months-long saga of corruption accusations, lawsuits, allegations of mishandled human remains, shouting matches at City Council meetings, a sexual harassment investigation and a claim against the city filed by the mayor’s executive assistant.
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the most popular public affairs podcast in San Diego:
Nathan Fletcher reappeared. We’ll review his first public comments since he went from the most prominent politician in San Diego to just gone.
San Diego Unified School District is changing some kindergarten through 8th grade schools to just kindergarten through fifth grade.They’ve already backtracked on one. Is this the beginning of many years of these tough conversations?
And joining us today to talk about the city of San Diego is its city council president Joe LaCava. It was a big week of new fees, new minimum wage and a plan to protect people from ICE.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - POLITIFEST
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - LA CAVA - FLETCHER
Politics Report: Good Luck, Council President
The San Diego City Council chose Joe LaCava as its new president Tuesday.
It was a recognition of LaCava’s decency and his efforts to position himself between the poles of this all-Democratic City Council. And it was a win for Mayor Todd Gloria. Gloria told us on the podcast that he didn’t have a preference for who got the Council president role. Maybe, but Gloria’s team sure did and they were pleased with LaCava.
by Jakob McWhinney - December 4, 2024
Morning Report: Fletcher’s Accuser Files Complaint Against His Wife
Nathan Fletcher’s accuser is asking a court to protect her from his wife, Lorena Gonzalez. Grecia Figueroa filed a civil harassment restraining order request against Gonzalez on Monday, just days after Fletcher made his first public appearance since the abrupt end of his political career in 2023, when Figueroa accused him of sexual harassment
SEGMENT 3 - SDUSD CLOSING SCHOOLS - THE CITY’S MINIMUM WAGE DEAL
The Learning Curve: San Diego Unified May Reverse One K-8 Closure
News that the district would axe middle school grades from four of its K-8 schools elicited significant pushback from some families. Now, district leaders may walk back one closure.
Politics Report: Minimum Wage Dealmaking Wraps Up
Recently a poll circulated gauging the public’s interest in an initiative to repeal the new trash fee the city of San Diego implemented. I don’t know yet who did the poll but just that it was out there may have been the point. The message: We can hit back. Big hotels, SeaWorld, the Padres all…
SEGMENT 4 - PARKING AT BALBOA - CITY ORDINANCE TO PROTECT SAN DIEGANS FROM “LAWLESS FEDERAL AGENTS”
Morning Report: No More Free Parking at Balboa
Balboa Park visitors can forget about free parking. The San Diego City Council on Monday OK’d parking fees for Balboa Park. They agreed to delay charging for parking until city staff develop frequent visitor passes, but that move could cost the city millions. Councilmembers dropped some parking rates for residents and increased rates for tourists…
From NBC San Diego: City, county leaders unveil proposed ordinance aimed at federal enforcement actions
The Due Process and Safety Ordinance seeks to put safeguards and protections in place in the event of "discriminatory and warrantless federal activity" in local neighborhoods.
SEGMENT 5 - CITY SEAL AND FLAG
Official City of San Diego Flag
Official City of San Diego FlagThe official flag of the City of San Diego was adopted by the City Council on Oct. 16, 1934, when a sample banner was submitted by Albert V. Mayrhofer, on behalf of the California Historical Association, Native Sons of the Golden West, Native Daughters of the Golden West, and The San Diegans.
The flag is composed of three vertical bars, from left to right, red, white and gold. In the center white field is the official seal of the City and beneath it the date "1542," the year explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo first entered San Diego Bay and claimed the area for Spain. The use of the three vertical bars is reminiscent of the colors of the flag of Spain, which flew over Cabrillo's ship.
Official City of San Diego Seal
The official seal of the City of San Diego consists of a coat of arms within a circle. Above the arms are the names of the City and the state, and below the arms is the City’s official motto. official seal of the City of San Diego
In 1913, the City Council authorized the City Clerk to invite design submissions for an official seal. The previous seal depicted an outdated cityscape. The winning design was the work of architect Carleton Monroe Winslow (1876-1946). Winslow would go onto design multiple buildings for the Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park, and the Bishop's School in La Jolla. The new seal was adopted by Resolution 17024 on April 15, 1914.
Segment 6 - LA JOLLA SUCCESSION & HOT TAKE
La Jollans Are Trying to Divorce San Diego (Again)
Since the 1950s San Diegans living in the La Jolla neighborhood have been uncomfortable with their semi-separate status. What they’ve really wanted is to be independent. Every effort thus far has failed – will the latest one be any different?
School District Closes PB Park Because of Dog Poop and Holes
During the Thursday recording of the Voice of San Diego Podcast, San Diego City Council President Joe LaCava dropped some news: “The joint use field at Crown Point Junior Music Academy is going to be closed to the public because of the dogs and the dog owners that have beaten up the field so badly that it is now unplayable and dangerous for the students.”
LaCava predicted more of San Diego Unified’s joint-use fields would close in the future.
“I think the school district is finally going to say ‘Enough is enough. We cant risk the health of our students,’” LaCava said.
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Violence against outstretched palms – as in hands not the trees. The curious case against Encinitas City Councilmember Luke Shaffer.
San Diego County Water Authority leaders may have thought the chatter about dissolving their agency may be in the past then came LAFCO. The funny agency nobody knew about is making headlines again.
And guests to the Zoo spend a bunch of money in San Diego. The Zoo and the city want them to spend a bit more.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - Promos
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - Palm Trees Are Not Trees
There’s a particular palm tree making its mark on Southern California... and not in a good way.
The Mexican fan palm — those tall, classic pseudo-trees along with other invasive species — isn’t native to Southern California, but nonetheless maintains a death grip on its ecological landscape.
Within the past year, San Diego has seen multiple canyon fires propelled by these pesky out-of-towners. And within weeks of the smoke clearing, they’re already resprouting, providing fuel for another fire before native plants are able to regenerate.
While fire is a natural to California’s ecosystem, necessary for many native plants to survive, it can be detrimental if it occurs too frequently.
This is one of many reasons San Diego won’t be planting them on public land anymore. Our intern, Tessa Balc, sat down with the executive director of @sdcanyonlands to see how we can nurture San Diego’s native landscape.
🎥: Tessa Balc
SEGMENT 3 - Nathan Fletcher is Returning to the News Cycle
ICYMI: Judge Dismisses Suit Against Nathan Fletcher
by Scott Lewis and Andrea Sanchez-Villafaña - August 8, 2025
SEGMENT 4 - YES We’re Talking About Minimum Wage in San Diego Again
ICYMI: Politics Report: Zoo Freed from Minimum Wage Push
by Scott Lewi - August 30, 2025
SEGMENT 5 - Shaffer and the Outstretched Palms Incident
North County Report: Inside Luke Shaffer’s First Day in Court
County prosecutors are going after the Encinitas councilmember for an alleged hit-and-run. Here’s what went on during his first court appearance.
by Tigist Layne - September 10, 2025
Segment 6 - LAFCO and the Water Authority
Blowing Up the Water Authority Isn’t Off the Table at LAFCO
The group that rubber stamped a divorce from the agency plans to look at getting rid of the agency altogether.
by MacKenzie Elmer - September 9, 2025
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Voice of San Diego team is embarking on an ambitious pursuit: Developing a public policy for how AI should and shouldn't be used in our newsroom. And we're bringing our listeners along for the ride.
Tap in for an unfiltered conversation where co-hosts Scott Lewis, Andrea Sanchez-Villafaña, Jakob McWhinney, Will Huntsberry and Bella Ross grapple with our concerns surrounding this new technology, and how we may consider using it to deliver more, better journalism.
Should this include public disclaimers when AI is deployed? What is the bar for such a disclaimer? Are certain kinds of writing more sacred than others? We hope to answer these questions over the course of a few episodes -- with your help!
We encourage listeners to share your thoughts about all of this as we continue to work on a policy that is both ethical and forward-thinking. Please email Scott@VOSD.org to weigh in before our next episode!
Support the show at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s dealmaking season at City Hall. The push for a new $25 minimum wage for some workers in the tourism and entertainment industry in San Diego is heading to a City Council vote Sept. 16. Here’s what we know about all the entities trying to get out of having to pay workers that.
Prop 50 mailers are hitting mailboxes and the ads are on TV. We’ve talked about it the last two podcasts but now it’s already set a congressional race in motion.
SHOW NOTES
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - Subscriptions Gone Wild
The Atlantic wrote about Alden Global Capital, the U-T’s owners, four years ago.
“What threatens local newspapers now is not just digital disruption or abstract market forces. They’re being targeted by investors who have figured out how to get rich by strip-mining local-news outfits. The model is simple: Gut the staff, sell the real estate, jack up subscription prices, and wring as much cash as possible out of the enterprise until eventually enough readers cancel their subscriptions that the paper folds, or is reduced to a desiccated husk of its former self,” the magazine wrote.
Bottom line: I think the U-T’s journalism is worth $2,000 a year, if it were a philanthropic cause and I could afford that. We have lots of donors who make bigger contributions than that. But this is not the way and it’s hurting trust.
Nieman Lab
Alden Global Capital is miffed that The Dallas Morning News won’t offer itself up for disembowelment
The hedge fund threatens to shift their takeover bid to shareholders — while trying to sweet-talk the only shareholder that matters.
SEGMENT 3 - Minimum Wage, the Cost of Living, and the Padres
SD Chamber teams up with Padres
SEGMENT 4 - Congressional Race - The (potentially) Redrawn 48th District
Mason Herron ran numbers:
Congressional District 48 - Issa
Trump +15.3%
Trump: 56.4% | Harris: 41.1%
Harris +2.6%
Trump: 47.4% | Harris: 50.0%
Congressional District 49 - Levin
Harris +7.8%
Trump: 44.7% | Harris: 52.5%
Harris +12.1%
Trump: 42.5% | Harris: 54.6%
Congressional District 50 - Peters
Harris +29.6%
Trump: 33.6% | Harris: 63.1%
Harris +17.5%
Trump: 39.7% | Harris: 57.2%
Congressional District 51 - Jacobs
Harris +23.5%
Trump: 36.7% | Harris: 60.2%
Harris +18.0%
Trump: 39.6% | Harris: 57.5%
Congressional District 52 - Vargas
Harris +21.2%
Trump: 38.1% | Harris: 59.3%
Harris +16.8%
Trump: 40.3% | Harris: 57.1%
- San Diego City Councilwoman Marni von Wilpert announces congressional campaign
"I've spent my career fighting for workers, women's rights and safety for everyone — the very priorities Darrell Issa and Donald Trump attack at every turn," she said. "This will be a must-win seat to take Congress back from Trump, and I'm the only Democratic candidate running who has won an election, flipped a seat from red-to-blue and actually delivered for working people."
Early endorsements include State Senators Catherine Blakespear and Steve Padilla, Assemblymembers Tasha Boerner and Chris Ward, San Diego County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer and her council colleagues Stephen Whitburn and Jen Campbell, among others.
- Ammar Campa-Najjar has also found a hat to throw into the ring
"This campaign is about making sure that all families, from San Diego to Riverside, have a representative who works for them," Campa-Najjar said in a statement released Friday. "That's why I've officially filed to run in CA- 48. If the proposed maps are approved, I'll be on the ballot, ready to represent this community and fight for a fair economy, affordable health care, and take on corruption."
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego’s Sunset Cliffs are crumbling. The city’s plan to save them is … a one way street?
The County Board of Supes has officially voted to tap into previously off-limits county reserves, but thanks to a labor agreement nearly half of those funds are already spoken for.
Also, why an aging north county dam has one company saying “Damn!”
And finally, Assemblyman Chris Ward is calling into to talk about a controversial housing bill and the redistricting ballot measure he supported.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - Promos
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - Richard Bailey and Scott Peters give slightly committed running for office vibesAXIOS
Meet the former mayor turned micro influencer who's making city policy go viral
Richard Bailey was Coronado's mayor until last yera. Now he's weighing in on big San Diego issues.
POLITICO
The House Dems bracing for redistricting sacrifices
SEGMENT 3 - County ReservesVoice of San Diego
Lisa HalverstadtIf County Dips Into Reserves, Millions Would go to Employee Bonuses
If county supervisors vote to approve updates to the county’s reserve policy Tuesday, county employees are set to receive bonuses.
SEGMENT 4 - Damn DamsVoice of San Diego
Tigist LayneSan Diego Is Getting Sued Because of One of Its Troubled Dam
A $300 million lawsuit claims the city’s release of water from El Capitan Dam damaged a property meant for sand mining.
SEGMENT 5 - Sunset CliffshangerVoice of San Diego
MacKenzie Elmer
How the City Will Save Sunset Cliffs from Sea Level Rise
The city is proposing to move cliff parking onto the street and eliminate a lane of traffic at the southern point at Sunset Cliffs.
SEGMENT 6 - Redistricting with Chris WardBallotpedia
California Proposition 50, Use of Legislative Congressional Redistricting Map Amendment (2025)
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Were you hallucinating too or do you also remember the city of San Diego saying pizza boxes could now go in the green bin. Also, a lot of people do not understand how to use the green bins, apparently.
We haven’t had a chance yet to talk about it but we should: A judge dismissed the sexual harassment case against Nathan Fletcher that ended his career. But he’s still got one going against the accuser.
And we have a special guest here co-hosting – Congressman Scott Peters is in the studio. We’ve got a lot to discuss with him.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - Promos
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - Banter
The City
The Chips Fall as Rivals Fry the Mayor
The jokes and jabs are flying as Eric Adams’ closest aides was slapped with new criminal charges the day after another of his longtime allies offered a reporter cash inside a potato chip bag.
SEGMENT 3 - Organic Waste
Voice of San Diego
MacKenzie
To Compost or Not to Compost: The Pizza Box
Whether you can put pizza boxes in your green bin is largely dependent on who picks up your trash.
SEGMENT 4 - Nathan Fletcher
NBC7 San Diego
Judge dismisses Nathan Fletcher sexual harassment lawsuit
The lawsuit by former MTS public relations specialist Grecia Figueroa was set to go to trial next month, but Superior Court Judge Matthew Braner ruled that too much evidence had been deleted or not turned over to the defense for the case to go before a jury.
SEGMENT 5 - Redistricting and the California Democratic Party
Cal Matters
Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan is on its way to voters. What you need to know
Cal Matters
5 things to know about Gavin Newsom’s plan to redraw California’s election maps
The Assembly just passed the first vote that would pave the way for mid-decade redistricting. Some background on our independent commission.
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, the Padres are getting into politics. The team just took first place in the National League west for the first time this late in the season in 15 years. Success on the field could help them in the field of politics.
We’ve got a special guest host today, former Coronado Mayor Richard Bailey is in the studio. He’s now become something of a conservative tiktok pundit weighing in mostly on city of San Diego politics. He’ll explain why you should care.
And finally, El Cajon stopped having police respond to some mental health calls and a big debate has erupted there since our story about it. We’ll break down the latest.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - Promos
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - Banter
VOSD
Politics Report: Padres Do Some Polling
Fox5 San Diego
Tickets available soon for San Diego Rodeo at Petco Park
SEGMENT 3
The Coronado News
The Coronado News’ second anniversary
New Revenue Hub
We support journalism that improves lives — and fights misinformation.
Tijuana/ US SewageEPA
United States and Mexico Reach Agreement to Permanently and Urgently End Decades-Long Tijuana River Sewage Crisis
Enivronment California
RELEASE: Pathogen risks found at 79% of California beaches tested in 2024
SEGMENT 5 -
Trump Policies
Pew ResearchTrump’s Tariffs and ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ Face More Opposition Than Support as His Job Rating Slips
Gallup
Surge in U.S. Concern About Immigration Has Abated
Migration Policy Institute
Profile of the Unauthorized Population:United States
Carl DeMaioVOSD
VOSD Assemblymember Carl DeMaio Is Back To Promoting Ballot Initiatives
SEGMENT 6 -
El Cajon Police
El Cajon Official: Want Cops to Back Up County Crisis Teams? Pay Up.
El Cajon councilmembers reviewing their police department’s shift on crisis call responses had a lot of questions about San Diego County’s crisis call policies.
Development
VOSD
In Whose Backyard
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
RVs are all over Mission Bay. Why the city now feels OK about cracking down on them.
Mack is Back! Mackenzie Elmer our environment reporter is dropping in to discuss bobcats that have been terrorizing the Wild Animal Park. And why the big news about a big Mexico/USA deal on the border sewage crisis is deja vu.
Finally hospitals used to panic that SB 43 would flood them with patients with drug and menthal health challenge who were being committed against their will. But so far that has’n’t happened. We’ll explain why.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 - Promos
Meet our South County reporter, Jim Hinch, on August 13 at the Civic Center Branch Library in Chula Vista for a discussion about his latest investigations and how they impact residents in South County.
This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
RSVP at vosd.org/event to reserve your spot.
The City of Chula Vista Public Library does not advocate nor endorse the views or positions expressed by the users of its facilities.
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 - Pricey Petco Parking on City Streets
Union-Tribune
$10-an-hour parking comes to Petco Park next month
This week, city crews are installing around 400 signs on curbs downtown to let drivers know about the new parking-meter rates taking effect Sept. 1
Richard Bailey on the parking fee increase around the ballpark
SEGMENT 3 - Border Sewage and Bobcats with Mackenzie
VOSD
South County Report: EPA Visits Tijuana River
VOSD
Environment Report: That Time Bobcats Dined on San Diego Zoo Animals
A USDA report shows bobcats broke into zoo facilities three times and made birds and antelope their dinner.
SEGMENT 4 - Mission Bay Parking
VOSDNew Safe Parking Site Frees City to Push Campers Out of Mission Bay
Legal hurdles had forced police to stop ticketing RVs in Mission Bay. But now police are beginning to crack down again.
SEGMENT 5 - SB43
Forced Treatment Hasn’t Flooded Hospital Emergency Rooms – Yet
County supervisors postponed implementation of a conservatorship state law in response to fears that hospitals could be inundated with new patients.
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You may be shocked to learn that of San Diego County cities Encinitas is closest to meeting its housing goals.
That’s right. The bad boy of North County with a history of failing to follow housing laws is actually building homes. Housing, or lack of, is among the top issues in our region and senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry has spent months analyzing housing data. He’s here to dish on his findings.
Also, we’ve gone over how there are far fewer kids in San Diego schools than there were a decade ago. We’ll explain what school leaders are doing to address enrollment decline.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1 VOSD Events
Meet our South County reporter, Jim Hinch, on August 13 at the Civic Center Branch Library in Chula Vista for a discussion about his latest investigations and how they impact residents in South County.
This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
RSVP at vosd.org/event to reserve your spot.
The City of Chula Vista Public Library does not advocate nor endorse the views or positions expressed by the users of its facilities.
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 The Tsunami Warnings
KPBS
8.8 magnitude quake strikes off Russia's Far East. Tsunami waves reach Japan, Hawaii and California
BBC
Waves reach US west coast after Russian earthquake as Japan lifts tsunami warnings
SEGMENT 3 In Whose Backyard?
In Whose Backyard? Is our new series that tackles housing in San Diego County.
And it is a stat lover’s cornucopia of information.
The Places in San Diego Meeting Their Housing Goals Will Blow Your Mind
by Will Huntsberry 17 hours ago
Encinitas, shockingly, is closer to meeting its state-mandated housing number than any other city in San Diego County.
San Diego Is Building a Lot of New Homes, But Not Always in Places That Need Them Most
by Jake Gotta / KPBS July 30, 2025
San Diego Housing Data Reveal Fastest Growth in Urban Core
by Andrew Bowen / KPBS July 29, 2025
In Whose Backyard? Where Homes Are Being Built in San Diego
by Will Huntsberry July 28, 2025
Coronado and Imperial Beach Haven’t Produced a Single Affordable Home in Years
by Will Huntsberry July 16, 2025
El Cajon Lags Behind Rest of Cities in Home Building Per Capita
by Will Huntsberry July 7, 2025
SEGMENT 4 Education
The Progress Report: How Some Schools Are Trying to Counter Enrollment Decline
Despite having little control over the unwieldy factors driving enrollment decline, school leaders are taking steps to push back on the frightening trend.
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There’s officially a new county supervisor and so there’s a new chair of the board of supervisors and they’re wasting no time making big changes.
El Cajon police have stopped responding to calls when a person says they’re going to hurt themselves. They blame lawyers but it’s complicating the response of civilian teams as well, we’ll explain.
And we talked about school enrollment plunging across the county but there are a couple schools in particular seeing major surges in enrollment. How two charter schools are racking up their numbers.
Plus an update on the water drama. Always fun.
SHOW NOTES
Segment 1County Supervisors swear in a new Sup and waste no time getting started.
Aguirre Cements Democrats’ Control of County Government
Newly elected South County Supervisor Paloma Aguirre took office Tuesday promising to clean up the Tijuana River and prioritize the needs of working San Diegans. She and fellow Democrats on the Board of Supervisors moved swiftly to implement their agenda.
by Jim Hinch
July 22, 2025
Segment 2Why would El Cajon police ignore calls for help?
A Crisis Team Responding to a Suicide Attempt Asked for Help, El Cajon Police Refused
A June incident where El Cajon police repeatedly declined to help a civilian crisis response team emphasizes the challenges tied to the department’s decision to stop responding to some crisis calls.
by Lisa Halverstadt
10 hours ago
Fearing Lawsuits, El Cajon Police Stopped Responding to Some Mental Health Calls
The decision means county mental health teams sometimes also can’t respond to crisis calls involving a threat to a single person or lack police support when they do.
by Lisa Halverstadt and Tessa Balc
July 23, 2025
Segment 2There's another reason why enrollments are declining county wide
San Diego County’s Schools Have 27,000 Fewer Students Than a Decade Ago. It Will Get Worse.
Over the past decade, enrollment at San Diego County public schools has declined by about five percent. That means there are 27,000 fewer students in local schools. State officials are projecting rates of decline will only get worse, which will force educators to make some hard decisions.
by Jakob McWhinney
July 15, 2025
Segment 3More Water Chisme (Kinda like the budget, the story has legs)
Politics Report: Water Authority Moves On
by Scott Lewis
July 19, 2025
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The mayor is just flat ignoring the budget the city council passed and will not fire the top managers the Council cut. And you thought budget drama was over.
Local water managers are demanding an apology from one of their colleagues. Apologies after demands for apologies are always the best apologies. We’ll explain why this matters.
And Jakob published an extraordinary analysis and maps this week of how many fewer kids there are in San Diego schools. Why that is.
SHOW NOTES
SEGMENT 1
Meet the Beat: Voice in North County
Join our North County reporter, Tigist Layne on July 24 at the Escondido History Museum at 6 p.m. to talk about the stories she’s watching that impact residents in North County.
Seats are limited. RSVP at vosd.org/events.
Politifest
Buy Your Tickets for Politifest 2025
Politifest is back on Oct. 4, and this won’t be our usual public affairs summit. This year, we’re bringing together community leaders to go head-to-head in our first ever Solutions Showdown. Hear their ideas and cast your vote on which proposals you think could solve the biggest issues facing San Diego.
Save on tickets with early bird pricing at vosd.org/politifest
SEGMENT 2 San Diego City Budget
Mayor: Nah, I Won’t Be Laying Staff Off
by Mariana Martínez Barba
July 15, 2025
SEGMENT 3 Where’d the Kids Go
San Diego County’s Schools Have 27,000 Fewer Students Than a Decade Ago. It Will Get Worse.
Over the past decade, enrollment at San Diego County public schools has decline by about five percent. That means there are 27,000 fewer students in local schools. State officials are projecting rates of decline will only get worse, which will force educators to make some hard decisions.
by Jakob McWhinney
July 15, 2025
SEGMENT 4 Water Wars
Water Managers Want Apology
by Scott Lewis
July 9, 2025
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’re drowning in education news this week.
The Trump administration’s grant freeze has put millions of school funds in jeopardy. The decision has some school leaders scrambling.
Our Jakob McWhinney got nerdy and figured out just how much money San Diego County stands to lose. Also, a San Diego Unified Board Trustee is calling it quits after one term. We’ll explain why.
And, meet our new City Hall reporter, Mariana Martinez Barba!
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:44
SEGMENT 1 00:01:33 - Support VOSD
SEGMENT 2 00:02:15 - Banter
SEGMENT 3 00:08:27 - Spring Valley Swap Meet
Addressing false ICE sighting
https://www.instagram.com/p/DL7-rW-vAjn
SEGMENT 4 00:13:45 - Meet our new City Hall beat reporter Mariana Martinez Barba
https://www.reportforamerica.org/
BREAK 00:19:14
SEGMENT 4 00:19:24 - Drowning in Education News
Trump Froze $50 Million in Education Funds. Here’s How Hard Each Local District Was Hit
The Trump administration’s freezing of a slew of federal grants has left $50 million for San Diego County schools up in the air.
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/07/10/trump-froze-50-million-in-education-funds-heres-how-hard-each-local-district-was-hit/
The Learning Curve: San Diego Unified’s Board President Won’t Run for Reelection
Cody Petterson, who won a seat on the board in 2022, won’t seek reelection. But he may run for a different office.
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/07/09/the-learning-curve-san-diego-unifieds-board-president-wont-run-for-reelection/
Trump Grant Freeze Puts Tens of Millions of Local K-12 Funding in Jeopardy
In the latest disruption of education norms, the Trump administration froze more than $6 billion in federal grants. Even if the freeze doesn’t become permanent, it could have serious ramifications for local schools.
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/07/08/trump-grant-freeze-puts-tens-of-millions-of-local-k-12-funding-in-jeopardy/
TRT 00:45:49
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The county is back in the hands of Democrats.
Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre is set to fill the vacant seat on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. The county has so much going on – there are big questions around the sewage crisis, homelessness, housing, budget, immigration.
The list goes on and on – and South County reporter Jim Hinch joins us today to dish on what Aguirre’s victory means for the direction of the county.
San Diego Unified is doubling down on its restorative justice efforts. But the district is also losing funding for some key positions. We’ll explain.
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:00:51 - Support VOSD
SEGMENT 2 00:01:55 - Banter
SEGMENT 3 00:07:17 - Aguirre Wins D1 Race (whew!)
Aguirre’s Win Puts Democrats in Charge at Pivotal Time
Tuesday’s election of Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre to fill a vacant seat on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors puts Democrats back in control of San Diego’s most powerful governmental agency – just as the county confronts a range of pressing challenges.
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/07/02/aguirres-win-puts-democrats-in-charge-at-pivotal-time/
SEGMENT 4 00:27:47 - Restorative Justice in SDUSD.
What is it and what does this mean?
The Progress Report: San Diego Unified Leaders Expand Restorative Discipline Policy As Funding Dips
San Diego Unified’s board recently passed a new restorative justice policy they hope will help improve implementation. But they also lost funding for some of the key positions that support that work.
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/06/26/the-progress-report-san-diego-unified-leaders-expand-restorative-discipline-policy-even-as-they-cut-funding/
TRT 00:58:31
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city has a new budget. There was a veto. A veto override and then an Instagram slam. We have a special guest, Councilmember Vivian Moreno is here. She’ll give us the insider take.
And the push to raise the minimum wage for hospitality workers is going forward.
And, the mayor has a new job!
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:00:39 - Support VOSD
SEGMENT 2 00:06:39 - Vivian Moreno
SEGMENT 3 00:11:06 - Mayor’s IG Story
“Today, some on the City Council attempted to fully override my veto—and failed. While the Council chose to override some items, the restored hours at libraries, rec centers, and lakes that San Diegans rely on will remain in place.” Mayor Todd Gloria
SEGMENT 4 00:28:51
Audio Clips:
00:23:28 - Marni Van Wipple on the Council override of the Mayor’s veto.
Start at 1:44:42 "I want to thank the Mayor for all the work ... whole city at once"
SEGMENT 5 00:28:51 Minimum Wage Hike
00:30:53 -Diana Puetz, Padres
ITEM-1: Hospitality Minimum Wage Ordinance for Certain Workers at Hotels, Event Centers, Amusement Parks, and Zoos Within the Geographic Boundaries of the City of San Diego
Start at 57:05 - 57:29
"The ordinance doesn't apply broadly or equitably ...... Why doesn't that apply to your own workforce."
00:34:45 Brigette Browning, Labor Council
ITEM-1: Hospitality Minimum Wage Ordinance for Certain Workers at Hotels, Event Centers, Amusement Parks, and Zoos Within the Geographic Boundaries of the City of San Diego
Start at 1:50:37 - 1:51:05
“I want to applaud you all ...... for the workers who work in their hotels.”
SEGMENT 6 00:46:01 Supes Race
SEGMENT 7 00:55:59 Hot Take
TRT 00:58:31
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The mayor does not want a chief operating officer gosh darn it! The most dysfunctional budget cycle in the city of San Diego continues with a big list of vetos from Mayor Todd Gloria.
And the biggest political battle in San Diego is finally nearing its end. Our reporter Jim Hinch went to a debate between Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre and Chula Vista Mayor John McCann and he’ll tell us how the race is looking.
SHOW NOTES
INTRO
00:00:00
SEGMENT 1
00:01:14 - Support VOSD :)
When we hired Tigist Layne to cover North County three years ago, we set out to provide northern cities with the coverage they deserve. But to keep doing that work, we need YOUR support.
Escondido resident, Jack Raymond, has put forth a $50,000 match to fund our North County coverage for the rest of the year. We have just $18,000 left to raise to meet our match and to keep our journalism going.
Support Tigist's reporting and Voice in North County by giving at vosd.org/givenorthcounty and have your gift matched today.
SEGMENT 2
00:03:44 - SDUSD Superintendent Vote
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/06/18/san-diego-unified-has-a-new-permanent-superintendent/
San Diego Unified Has a New (Permanent) Superintendent
by Jakob McWhinney
SEGMENT 3
00:10:07 - Billboard Story Update and Corrections
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/06/14/politics-report-prepare-for-digital-billboards/
Politics Report: Prepare for Digital Billboards
by Scott Lewis
SEGMENT 4
00:23:28 - D1 Supe Race Update
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/06/18/supe-candidates-spar-over-taxes-homelessness-and-trump/
Supe Candidates Spar Over Taxes, Homelessness – And Trump Democrat Paloma Aguirre and Republican John McCann made their pitch to voters in a televised debate Tuesday. But the real star of the show, given how often his name came up, might have been President Donald Trump.
By JIm Hinch
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Federal immigration agents are trying to hit their quotas of people to arrest and deport and it’s causing some distressing scenes across California. On the eve of big protests, where are we headed? We’ll grapple with it.
For the first time in more than 100 years, owners of single family homes in the city of San Diego will have to pay for trash pickup. It almost didn’t happen. We’ll go through the tense meeting.
And with that, the city balanced its budget, sort of. The Council wants to take some big risks.
Show Notes:
The Learning Curve: ICE Arrest in Oceanside Highlights Impact of Immigration Crackdown
Job Corps
Trump’s Cuts Thrust San Diego Students into Chaos and Homelessness
When President Donald Trump’s administration abruptly announced the shuttering of the more than 60-year-old Job Corps program at the end of May, many students who live at the San Diego site didn’t have a place to go. It’s only gotten more chaotic.
San Diego City Council Avoids a Whole Lotta Budget Cuts, for Now
The city’s budget for the year that begins in July is balanced – at least for now – with the help of assumptions the city will more swiftly pursue paid parking at Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, move forward with digital billboard ads, charge fees on credit card transactions at parking meters and cut about a dozen additional positions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An immigration raid in the early dinner hours at a popular restaurant in South Park has led to a week of backlash among local leaders. We’ll talk about what we know.
We’re in the final days of this epic budget process at the city of San Diego. Will the beloved fire pits survive???
And finally, the giant water agencies based in San Diego and Los Angeles have resolved their 15-year legal dispute. We’ll explain how interesting it is and a fascinating little fight they started right after it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s memorandum time in the city of San Diego’s budget saga. Councilmembers may be headed for a historic standoff with the mayor. We’ll do a little history lesson to show how interesting it could get.
Only 58 percent of San Diego Unified high schoolers are on track to graduate. Rather than get them on track, they’ve decided to create a new track
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There had been some controversy about whether the Mayor and San Diego City Council would have to dip into reserves to handle their budget deficit – now it appears they have no choice. We’ll explain how bad the city’s finances are getting.
South County is now home to a massive hotel and convention center many years in the making. The mayor of Chula Vista like all south bay officials was proud. But he quickly distanced himself from his real estate company that appears ready to cash in on an adjacent project.
And Jakob’s got an update from the telenovela that is Grossmont Union High School District.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
San Diego County Grand Jury Findings
VOSD:
Grand Jury Finds Faults in San Diego Unified’s Bond Program
Among the report’s findings, the grand jury concluded the district had ‘consistently failed to inform,’ voters of bond-induced tax rate increases or provided detailed lists of projects.
San Diego Budget Crisis
KPBS:
San Diego’s highest paid city employees? Cops racking up overtime and earning over $400,000
City of San Diego
City of San Diego Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2026 Draft Budget and May Revision.
Chula Vista Mayor and Amara Bay
VOSD:
Chula Vista Mayor Distances Himself from His Own Real Estate Company
Chula Vista Mayor John McCann’s real estate company filed paperwork enabling it to do business under the same name as a high-profile bayfront redevelopment project McCann has promoted as mayor. After Voice of San Diego asked about the arrangement, McCann said he was divesting himself from the company.
GUHSD Drama Continues to Unfold
VOSD:
Grossmont Board Gives Final ‘Yes,’ to Layoffs, Inks Six Figure Resignation Settlement with Chief of Staff
After months of uproar, Grossmont Union’s board did what everyone was scared they would – they finalized layoff notices. Later that night they also approved a settlement agreement with a district administrator whose journey back to Grossmont sparked concerns of serious conflicts of interest.
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city of San Diego is officially at legal war with La Jolla separatists. Why a ballot measure push a couple years ago is related.
The mayor’s revised budget is still pretty ugly and still gets rid of beach bonfire rings.
And finally the budget also has set up an nasty little standoff between the city and county over a homeless shelter in the Midway area. They have stopped letting people into the tent and the operator is furious.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week the crew brought their notes and their game to Soda Bar where they recorded the podcast before packed house, as Scott, Andrea, Jakob and Bella welcomed Keene Simonds, the Executive Officer of the Local Agency Formation Commission, to the lively LIVE podcast recording session.
Recorded live at Soda Bar, Wednesday May 7, 2025.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we sat down for an in depth interview with San Diego County Water Authority General Manager Dan Denham. He filled us in with some deep water knowledge during this week’s show.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
VOSD:
San Diego Council Bashes County Water Authority Over Costs
Councilmembers say they want to see steep cuts in spending by the region’s major water buyer. One suggested refusing to pay the city’s water bills.
by MacKenzie Elmer
January 17, 2025
The Truth About the Cost of Water: Dismantling the Water Authority Would Harm All San Diegans
by Jim Madaffer
April 28, 2025
Axios:
Elo-Rivera to San Diego Water Authority: Lower rates, or else
Andrew Keatts
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We have another guest this week. Hot off her state of the county speech, County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer is joining us.
Our South Bay reporter did a deep dive into what happened after Chula Vista Mayor John McCann helped secure the release of a woman convicted of fraud several years ago. She’s being sentenced today on another charge.
And we had a story this week out of Encinitas where a homeless service provider is being attacked online and blamed for the increasing visibility of homelessness in the beach town.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:00:53
Spring Fundraising Campaign
One week left
Goal - 100 new members and $150k by April 29
All gifts will be matched up to $10k thanks to a generous anonymous donor.
Donate at vosd.org/podpeople and leave a message about why you support Voice.
Here’s what our members said about why they donate:
Leticia S. wrote, “Your paper has been the only one we as latinos have been able to count on to tell our story on various issues important to our small community of Fallbrook. You don't ignore us and you tell the truth.”
Martha D. said, “No one else is focusing on the areas that you do. Also your reporting is succinct, explanatory, and free from rambling opinion. Thank you for continuing to do what you do!”
Marjorie W. wrote, “you are increasingly a sane voice in this chaotic world”
Thank you to those who have supported our work! You can become a supporter too by going to vosd.org/podpeople. Leave us a message about why you support and we’ll read a few in the next episode. Again, that’s vosd.org/podpeople
Brews and News Live Podcast
Brews and News Live Podcast is back! It's time to embrace your inner news nerd and talk about the latest scoops with our pod crew on Wednesday, May 7 at Soda Bar. Brews and News Live Podcasts are opportunities to meet our journalists, play audience games, enjoy a beer and listen to San Diego’s most popular public affairs podcast live.
If you missed our beer launch party, you can still try our anniversary beer at Brews and News. Plus, every Brews and News attendee will be entered to win one of two baseballs signed by our Padres favorite - Manny Machado and Jackson Merrill. You won’t want to miss out.
Buy your tickets now and learn more at vosd.org/livepod. Again that’s v-o-s-d.org back slash l-i-v-e-p-o-d.
SEGMENT 2 00:04:54
Banter
SEGMENT 3 00:09:14
John McCann
Chula Vista Mayor Helped Free a Felon Who’s Going Back to Prison with Her Brother – A Lot Happened in Between
SEGMENT 4 00:11:12
County Supervisors: Unvited
GOP County Supes: Dem Didn’t Invite Us to State of County Speech
SEGMENT 5 00:13:01
DOGE Effects on the County
The State of the County Resistance
SEGMENT 6 00:25:58
Terra Lawson-Remer on Gloria’s Homeless Critique
Politics Report: The ‘Era of Austerity’ Is Here
SEGMENT 7 00:28:39
Encinitas Gets Ugly with Homeless Blame
Anonymous Account, Neighbors Target Provider as Homelessness Surges in Encinitas
SEGMENT 8 00:38:11
Terra’s Activism Past
SEGMENT 9 00:44:00
Hot Take: Leave Fire Pits Alone
(From the archives) San Diego Council Seeks to Snub Out Some Beach Bonfires
San Diego’s City Council wants to clarify that open fires are only allowed in concrete fire pits. Beachgoers could still cook on propane-powered grills.
by MacKenzie Elmer
May 23, 2022
TRT 00:51:26
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We have a guest co-host today, Congressman Mike Levin is here with some reports from D.C. where things are normal and not very interesting at all. He was supposed to bring a hot take.
Jakob did a story about how some classrooms in local colleges are filled with fake people. We’ll break down how that works and how much it’s costing.
And we have more trash talk. The new fee for San Diego homeowners is probably coming but it’s got to go through a big hurdle.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:00:42
VOSD Beer Launch Party
Beer Launch Party
To celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’ve collaborated with 3 Punk Ales to create a limited edition Voice of San Diego beer can.
Come enjoy a beer with all our reporters at the official launch party.
When: Thursday, April 24 at 5 p.m.
Where: 3 Punk Ales – 259 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
SEGMENT 2 00:01:41
Banter
SEGMENT 3 00:02:08
Mike Levin
SEGMENT 4 00:13:22
Smart Trash
San Diegans are set to pay a new fee for trash pickup — but officials dialed down the proposed price for trash pickup by 10 percent. (Union-Tribune)
SEGMENT 5 00:21:18
County vs City Sprung Structure Tent
Homeless temporary housing
SEGMENT 6 00:29:57
Student Aid Fraud
How Fraudsters Swindle Community College Financial Aid
Community colleges have in recent years been plagued by fraudsters posing as students to swindle financial aid money. Here’s how it works.
SEGMENT 7 00:29:57
Mike Levin on DOGE Cuts
SEGMENT 7 00:57:37
Hot Takes
TRT 01:07:39
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The South Bay County Supervisor runoff is set. Two mayors will race for the future of the county.
An effort to set aside an area for homeless residents near the airport has hit another snag as the developer of Liberty Station takes the city to court.
And the U.S Secretary of Education was in town. Jakob went to see her.
All that and another Dear VOSD.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:55:20
VOSD Beer Launch Party
- Grossmont Union accounts:
- https://www.instagram.com/guhsd_parent/
-
https://www.instagram.com/studentsforstaff.guhsd/
-
Sdbikelanes: https://www.instagram.com/sdbikelanes/
- Mts lovegang: https://www.instagram.com/sdmts.lovegang/
- Sdfloodsurvivors: https://www.instagram.com/sdfloodsurvivors/
SEGMENT 2 00:07:17
Dear VOSD: Luis from City Council District 4
What’s the correct number of city council districts?
SEGMENT 3 00:17:57
Southbay Election Update
Two Mayors Will Battle for Supe Seat
SEGMENT 4 00:26:23
Trash Fees
San Diegans are set to pay a new fee for trash pickup — but officials dialed down the proposed price for trash pickup by 10 percent. (Union-Tribune)
SEGMENT 5 00:33:02
Liberty Station
Liberty Station Developer Asks Judge to Halt H Barracks Safe Parking
A prominent real estate developer is asking a Superior Court judge to stop the city from opening a safe parking lot for people living in vehicles until a legal battle over the project ends.
SEGMENT 6 00:39:39
ASU + GSV Education Summit
In San Diego, Education Secretary Insists Cuts Target Bureaucracy, Not Fundingocuments show Renteria donated to Reyes’ school board campaign in 2018.
TRT 00:48:15
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Sunday, March 31st, 1985, a group of young Black men drove back to southeastern San Diego after visiting Balboa Park. It was just after 6:00 PM and the sun was retreating into the horizon. As a truck driven by 23-year-old Sagon Penn pulled into a driveway on a quiet street in Encanto, they were followed by two police cars.
What happened next would leave one officer dead, another officer and a civilian ride along severely injured, a young man in a years long legal limbo and a city reeling.
On the 40th anniversary of the incident, I have author Peter Houlahan in the studio with me. His book, “Reap the Whirlwind: Violence, Race, Justice and the story of Sagon Penn,” is a fascinating deep dive into the case, the compelling figures who drove the story and the impact it all had on San Diego and beyond.
SHOW NOTES
10News Story: New book revisits the impact the story of Sagon Penn has had on communities of color in San Diego
You can find book from Counterpoint Press here: Reap the Whirlwind
Reap the Whirlwind - Violence, Race, Justice, and the Story of Sagon Penn
by Peter Houlahan
Book Description
The bestselling author of Norco ’80 returns with a riveting story of mid-1980s San Diego that placed one young Black man at the center of a whirlwind of crime and punishment that profoundly altered Southern California
CREDITS
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coming up on the show, we are in the final stretch of the District 1 County Supervisor race.
The mailers are getting SPICY, and one especially pissed off a lot of people.
Last month, Mayor Todd Gloria announced he was eliminating the position of chief operating officer and taking over the gig himself. Now, former COO Eric Dargan is suing Gloria and the city for discrimination and for breaking promises in his contract. We’ll break it down.
Finally, why are officials at Chula Vista Elementary school trading corruption allegations? Investigative reporter Will Huntsberry joins us this week to explain.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:04:13
Hyperlocal IG Accounts
- Grossmont Union accounts:
https://www.instagram.com/guhsd_parent/
https://www.instagram.com/studentsforstaff.guhsd/ - Sdbikelanes: https://www.instagram.com/sdbikelanes/
- Mts lovegang: https://www.instagram.com/sdmts.lovegang/
- Sdfloodsurvivors: https://www.instagram.com/sdfloodsurvivors/
SEGMENT 2 00:19:28
SD COO Sues SD
VOSD Mayor’s Office: Ex-COO Alleging Discrimination Was Fired
Mayor Todd Gloria’s chief of staff claims former city COO Eric Dargan, whose position was eliminated in February, was ‘terminated for cause’ in response to his lawsuit alleging discrimination and a breached contract.
SEGMENT 3 00:25:11
UCSD to Lose Funding
VOSD The Learning Curve: UCSD Could Lose Hundreds of Millions from Trump Cuts
While many in higher education are sounding the alarm on President Donald Trump’s research slashing, it has been tough to suss out exactly what the impacts will be. An email from UCSD’s Chancellor gives us a ballpark figure.
SEGMENT 4 00:32:32
Chula Vista COO Conflict of Interest
VOSDChula Vista Superintendent Allegedly Pushed for Work for Builder Who Donated to His Campaign
Superintendent Eduardo Reyes previously said he has no personal relationship with Al Renteria. Campaign documents show Renteria donated to Reyes’ school board campaign in 2018.
TRT 00:48:58
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Padres are playing their opening game as we record. We’ll explain a new minimum wage increase they are fighting.
We’ve got a few updates on what the city is doing to get you to pay for parking. Why San Diego is on the hook for monthly rent payment on an empty homeless shelter. And the historic San Diego Taxpayers Association has no leadership.
Also, the hospitals are fighting. Palomar Health is borrowing money from friends and that never goes well.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:01:10
- AxiosOpening Day at Petco: Padres face Braves, Profar returns
- Bella's Tarot Cards
SEGMENT 2 00:10:34
Tax Association
VOSD Politics Report: Taxpayers ‘Cash Flow Problem’
SEGMENT 3 00:15:13
Homeless Senior Center
VOSD San Diego Is on the Hook for Monthly $77,000 Payments of Shuttered Senior Shelter
SEGMENT 4 00:19:15
SD CPR
Parking Update from Bella
KPBS Charging on Sundays? Surge pricing? San Diego eyes reforms to manage parking demand
SEGMENT 5 00:27:17
Palomar Health
VOSD Palomar Health’s Borrowing Has Ruffled Feathers at Sharp HealthCare
Michael Scott I DECLARE BANKRUPTCY!!! - The Office US
TRT 00:41:52
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’ve got a Dear VOSD response finally on the city’s history of charging for parking.
Grossmont Union School District has had some very tense meetings. We’ll talk about a hot mic moment that went viral.
And as part of our 20th anniversary talk, we have reflections from several of the journalists and former writers at Voice of San Diego who made a difference here.
SHOW NOTES:
(Links to VOSD articles mentioned during the show and links for further reading)
INTRO 00:00:00
SEGMENT 1 00:02:16
- SD County - Registrar’s Office First Supervisorial District Special Primary Election
- Luke Bergmann Resigns - VOSD County’s Top Behavioral Health Official Resigns
- Dept of Education - NPR Trump signs order aiming to close the Education Department
- Trash Fees - NBC San Diego City of San Diego announces how much trash pickup will actually cost
SEGMENT 2 00:19:23
Dear VOSD: Parking
Instagram New fiscal year, same structural budget deficit
SEGMENT 3 00:34:55
GUHSD Budget Cuts
VOSD Amid Layoff Talks, School Board Member Says Librarians Are Overpaid
SEGMENT 4 00:51:34
20th Anniversary Talk with Voices
VOSD 20 Years of Impact - At 20 Years Old, We Check In with 20 Former Voicers
TRT 01:10:49
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There was a surprisingly tense conversation about water rates at the city. The reality that they’re going to soar is starting to set in and we’ll discuss.
Finally, we’ve got a guest, I have been on his show many times but he’s never been on ours. Darren Smith, the best unemployed radio guy in town is here to explain us some sports and more.
We’ll go through some headlines with him and get into it.
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:00
Intro
SEGMENT 1 00:01:48
San Diego Football Club opening day drama
- KPBS San Diego FC announces security, messaging measures after homophobic chants
-
AXIOSSDFC confronts fans' homophobic chant that's plagued soccer for years
-
NBC San DiegoHomophobic chant at San Diego FC's inaugural home match condemned by coach, sporting director
SEGMENT 2 00:13:41
COVID-19 Five Years Later
- Guardian Article: ‘We have ignored lessons’: how Covid continues to affect lives five years later
- Reuters:COVID-19 shut us down five years ago. Here's how its economic impact continues
- Axios: Remembering the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in San Diego, five years later
SEGMENT 3 00:23:46
Troubled Waters
- VOSD Why It Matters: Why Are San Diego Water Rates About to Soar?
-
City Council Meeting Item 331: Public Hearing Regarding Proposed Water Rate Increase not to Exceed 5.5% to pass through increases from San Diego County Water Authority.
-
9:04:52 - 9:05:05 “Because we are going to be using ...it's ghost water, it's water noone is going to drink.”
- 9:09:38 - 9:10:04 “I'm not comfortable ...I'll put that on the table.”
SEGMENT 4 00:39:01
SD FC & San Diego Padres
- VOSD Tom Penn, New SD MLS Chief, Sees a Soccer Campus on the Horizon
In a Q&A, the former LAFC president talks about the youth academy the new team will build and all the other major projects he has two years to complete.
SEGMENT 5 00:53:19
NIL in College Sports
- Cal Matters:California’s college athletes can now make millions off sponsorship deals. Here's a first look at the numbers
TRT 01:10:49
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What exactly happened at City Council this week? We have one of them here, Councilmember Henry Foster joins us to talk about housing, ADUs, land use, the city’s deficit and more.
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:00
Intro
SEGMENT 1 00:02:09
San Diego Football Club opening day drama
-
AXIOSSDFC confronts fans' homophobic chant that's plagued soccer for years
-
NBC San DiegoHomophobic chant at San Diego FC's inaugural home match condemned by coach, sporting director
SEGMENT 2 00:11:13
- Mailers D1 County Superintendent Race
SD County San Diego County’s First Supervisorial District
VOSD County Workers Back Imperial Beach Mayor in Supervisor Bid
VOSD Morning Report: Housing and the Supe Race - San Diego’s Budget Deficit
VOSD Morning Report: Deep Cuts Coming to City
SEGMENT 3 00:24:05
- Henry Foster on Housing
VOSD Morning Report: Council Spares ADU Bonus Program
VOSD Morning Report: Mayor Cans COO -
City of San Diego March 4, 2025 City Council Meeting
-
Audio Clip: 00:36:10
Daniel Horton, chief of staff, D 4 “Under the current rules … slave quarters or camps … is needed.” - Audio Clip: 00:49:45
CM Marni Von Wilpert “Under existing regulations … when it lacks sidewalks .. does that mean the city is required to deny … very interesting.”
TRT 01:06:13
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:00
Intro
Parent’s Guide on Instagram!
SEGMENT 1 00:00:57
Parent’s Guide on Instagram!
The wait is OVER
This year’s A Parent’s Guide to San Diego Schools is here and ready to help answer all your local education questions!
The Guide explains school choice opportunities and enrollment deadlines, what’s available for after-school care, school performance data in an easy-to-use format and much more — all for FREE!!!
Donor Thank You’s
Ways to Give
Women Leading The Conversation
San Diego’s most influential women leaders.
Thursday, March 20, 2025
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Farmer & Seahorse, Illumina Theatre
10996 Torreyana Rd., San Diego, CA
SD 101 Video and Washington Post Tik-Tok
Dave Jorgenson on Blue Sky
Bella Ross on Blue Sky
SEGMENT 2 00:13:42
South County Endorsements
From La Prensa StoryFriends Clash in County Special Election (2/3/2025) By Arturo Castañares Editor-at-Large
SEGMENT 3 00:21:36
Cannabis: How a Barber Became the Unwitting Owner of a Cannabis Company
SEGMENT 4 00:36:25
CARE Court:
San Diego’s CARE Court Isn’t Forcing Treatment
Governor Newsom Unveils Plan to Care for Californians Struggling with Behavioral Health Challenges
TRT 00:49:34
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you listened last week, you were set up for the big news this week. The mayor is flexing his muscles.
We’ll explain the difference between eliminating a position and firing someone and what happened to the now former top bureaucrat at the city.
And the parents guide is coming out. Jakob and Andrea here have been working hard on it. We’ll talk.
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:00
Intro
What our supporters have to say.
SEGMENT 1 00:03:00
The Reader and Alt Weeklies
KPBS: San Diego Reader ends print edition after 52 years
The Union-Tribune: A cultural shift you can’t deny’: San Diego Reader ceases printing and goes fully digital
The Times of San Diego: San Diego Reader Ends 52-Year Print Run, But Will Keep the Alt-Press Faith Online
The Reader Instagram account: Not ended, but changed. The San Diego Reader is now SanDiegoReader.com!
SEGMENT 2 00:13:15
The Chula Vista School Board Drama
VOSD: Why a Chula Vista School Board Member Ran for a Seat He Already Held
Chula Vista Elementary School District trustees Francisco Tamayo and Lucy Ugarte allegedly ‘conspired’ to take control of the district’s school board by ousting a Democratic board member they disliked and replacing her with an ally. The maneuver resulted in a Republican being appointed to the board. Now, Tamayo and Ugarte face a possible censure from their political party.
by Jim Hinch
SEGMENT 3 00:19:12
Strong Mayor Gloria
YouTube: Mayor Gloria to Announce Operational Efficiencies, Reductions for City Budget 2/18/2025
VOSD:Mayor Gloria Tries to Save the Strong Mayor
by Scott Lewis
VOSD: Mayor Dismisses Embattled COO and Takes Reins of City Management
Chief Operating Officer Eric Dargan is out and department executives will now report directly to the mayor. by Will Huntsberry
YouTube: “Bueller?”
SEGMENT 4 00:40:09
The 2025 edition of A Parent’s Guide to San Diego Schools (7th Edition)
VOSD: The Learning Curve: The Schools Guide Has Arrived
The 2025 edition of A Parent’s Guide to San Diego Schools comes packed with all of the data you’ve come to rely on, plus two new exclusive metrics to help parents make sense of local schools.
VOSD: A Parent’s Guide to San Diego Schools
(download or order a hardcopy)
Voice of San Diego’s 2025 Parent’s Guide to San Diego Schools helps families make informed decisions for their child’s education.
The Guide explains school choice opportunities and enrollment deadlines, what’s available for after-school care, school performance data in an easy-to-use format and much more.
The Guide is generously supported by The Girard Foundation, David and Annie Malcolm, Girl Scouts San Diego, Nordson Corporation, Brian Connelly & Associates, Carmel Valley Test Prep, and all of our members.
TRT 00:50:57
Scott Lewis, CEO and editor in chief at Voice of San Diego.
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, managing editor
Bella Ross, social media producer
Jakob McWhinney, education reporter and theme music composer.
Xavier Vasquez, podcast producer
Journalism is integral to a healthy democracy: Support independent, investigative journalism in San Diego County.
Become a Member: Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s the 20th anniversary of the launch of Voice of San Diego, the greatest nonprofit news organization go live in 2005. We launched before YouTube. We’ll reminisce a bit with a sort of special guest.
The city of San Diego’s budget deficit has provoked some tense conversations. A City Council budget committee hearing last week had some great clips.
And where are the kids? San Diego Unified School District is going to have to deal with another drop in enrollment.
SHOW NOTES
INTRO 00:00:00
Intro
SEGMENT 1 00:00:00
“Dear VOSD” Jim from University Heights - When it comes to parking, why is La Jolla an exception?
Parking and RIP Donald Shoup
Donald Shoup, distinguished professor emeritus whose decades of teaching and scholarship at UCLA greatly influenced the field of land-use planning as well as generations of scholars, students and urban planners, died Feb. 6, 2025, at age 86. Shoup was a titan in the fields of urban planning and specifically parking reform, and his landmark book, “The High Cost of Free Parking,” resulted in the adoption of many of his parking reform ideas in cities around the nation and world.
SEGMENT 2 00:11:47
San Diego’s Budget Deficit
City of San Diego Budget and Government Efficiency Committee
Michael Zucchet, San Diego Municipal Employees Association General Manager critiques San Diego’s budget handling.
1:03:31 - 1:03:55
1:04:00 - 1:04:13
1:08:06 - 1:08:10
1:09:25 - 1:10:02
Council Member Mike Lee
1:39:35 - 1:39:45
“Bueller?” YouTube clip
SEGMENT 3 00:33:32
San Diego City Unnecessary Travel
Mayor has much still to reveal about his secret trip to the Philippines
San Diego Union Tribune
San Diego Unified Has Lost Nearly 12,000 Students in Past Decade
VOSD
SEGMENT 4 00:43:04
20 Years! of VOSD
20 Years of Impactful Journalism
20 Years of Voice Impact: The Investigation into SEDC
Our investigation into the Southeastern Economic Development Corp. put us on the map and taught us invaluable lessons.
Lessons After 20 Years of Voice of San Diego
TRT 01:13:16
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coming up on the show today, a special interview with San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez. She is ready to talk about deaths in county jails, local law enforcement’s relationship with federal immigration agents and more.
SHOW NOTES
2017 California Senate Bill 54, commonly referred to as "SB 54" and also known as the "California Values Act" is a 2017 California state law that prevents state and local law enforcement agencies from using their resources on behalf of federal immigration enforcement agencies
AG Says Sheriff Must Find Solution to Jail Deaths – Or Face Consequences
If death rates in San Diego jails don’t come down, Attorney General Rob Bonta said he could pursue multiple legal remedies.
by Will Huntsberry
October 10, 2023
Border Report: Understanding San Diego’s Stricter ‘Sanctuary’ Policy
by Kate Morrissey
January 6, 2025
Proposition 36 Has Already Led to Hundreds of Arrests in San Diego
by Jakob McWhinney
February 5, 2025
Become a Member
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is it the end of San Diego’s decidedly pro-housing majority? There was an earthquake at City Hall this week about ADUs
At the same time, Poway City Council has reached a telenovela level of drama, we’ll break it down.
SHOW NOTES
00:00:00 Opening
00:04:15 Controversial Encanto ADU Policy
From KPBS
San Diego City Council repeals controversial footnote targeting Southeastern neighborhoods
Encanto neighbors say their infrastructure can’t support the ‘granny towers’ coming to backyards
Gloria 'exploring options' after surprise City Council vote seeking repeal of landmark housing program
San Diego City Council Meeting
Cue to: 3:51:00 - 3:55:00
00:29:22 Poway Telenovela
Poway City Attorney Accuses Councilmember of Harassment, Intimidation
Poway City Attorney Alan Fenstermacher accused Councilmember Tony Blain during a contentious City Council meeting of harassment, intimidation, bullying and retaliation.
https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/01/22/poway-city-attorney-accuses-councilmember-of-harassment-intimidation/
Poway council member threatened recall effort against colleague based on how he voted
Councilmember Tony Blain was accused of trying to bribe and extort his colleague Peter De Hoff in emails.
Poway City Council Meeting where drama unfolded
Become a Member
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our annual Parents Guide to San Diego Schools is almost done. We have added a new metric this year and it reveals how well schools recovered, or didn’t, from COVID.
Jakob here took it and turned it into a story. It’s a bit of a downer.
Another local government is promising to protect people from Trump’s immigration action. We’ll review the supposed protections.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria gave his state of the city speech. If last year was the everything is awesome speech, this year was the everything is definitely not awesome speech.
This was the tough conversations speech. The we can do hard things speech.
The dynamic PowerPoint that went with included such rousing lists like refocus, reimagine, revisit and re-evaluate…
SHOW NOTES
00:00:00 Opening
January 28th Event:
Meet the Beat: South County
January 28 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Free
Have you met our newest journalist Jim Hinch yet? Have refreshments and get to know the face behind Voice’s South County Report. This event is open to the public.
00:06:14 State of the City Part I
2025 State of the City Livestream
Mayor: Steep Budget Cuts Are Coming San Diego
by Will Huntsberry and Lisa Halverstadt
00:16:43 State of the City Part II
2024 State of the City Livestream
00:32:45 State of the City Part III
Morning Report: Deep Cuts Coming to City
00:37:48 County Update
San Diego Is Less Blue
Public Matters
Public Matters is led by KPBS, inewsource and Voice of San Diego. These three independent, nonprofit news organizations are partnering to share content, conversation, and events that ensure all San Diegans understand their opportunity to participate in the democratic process and that it means more than voting in an election. The initiative provides news stories on politics and governance including the areas of housing affordability, public safety, neighborhood improvements and social justice; facilitated, in-person discussions around important issues that often divide us; and resources to help you make a difference in your community. At its core, it is about reminding us that we have a shared humanity, and together we are empowered to make positive change.
Become a Member
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We are going to go through some updates to stories but we’ve got a special co-host today, San Diego City Councilmember Raul Campillo.
We’ve got some questions for him and he said he’s come up with a contribution to our hot takes segment at the end.
SHOW NOTES
Segment 1
00:02:15 Updates
00:06:28 Fletcher Nathan Fletcher’s Accuser Drops Sexual Assault Claim — for Now
00:08:13 Vargas South County Report: Supervisor Race Takes Shape
Segment 2
00:11:17 She Said What?
County Supervisor Candidates Have No Love for New Immigration Policy
New San Diego Council President Wants to End SeaWorld Fireworks
00:23:55 Padres
Matthew Seidler denies allegations of wrongdoing from wife of late Padres owner Peter Seidler (Associated Press)
Matt Seidler responds to Sheel Seidler’s lawsuit, says Padres not going anywhere (Union Tribune)
Segment 3
00:30:27 Raul Campillo Interview
00:55:21 Do you want to run for mayor?
Segment 4
01:00:57 Hot Takes
Andrea: The County’s Sanctuary City Statement
Raul: The Future of Balboa Park
Scott: SDGE’s Fire Safety Policy
Jakob: No hot take (!?)
January 28th Event:
Meet the Beat: South County
January 28 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Free
Have you met our newest journalist Jim Hinch yet? Have refreshments and get to know the face behind Voice’s South County Report. This event is open to the public.
Become a Member
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is our first show of 2025 and it is already starting with some huge news: We finally will discuss the incredible news that County Supervisor Nora Vargas will not be taking the oath of office for her re-election.
The balance of power in the county is once again up for grabs, right as the county braces for thousands more people being forced into treatment.
What’s going to happen? Who’s going to run?
We’ll get into everything plus an update about stunning news from the San Diego Housing Commission: It has decided it no longer has the resources to dole out vouchers to specific low-income housing projects. IT’s a move that could have major implications for the Sports Arena project and other efforts to provide housing.
SHOW NOTES
Segment 1
0:05:21 - 0:11:28
The Libby App (app that Scott uses to read books)
The Power Broker (book)
Segment 2
0:11:33 - 0:19:26
Politics Report: Another County Supe Down
by Scott Lewis, December 21, 2024
Locate Your District (San Diego County site)
Segment 3
0:19:39 - 0:40:56
Morning Report: Another Scandal Ends in a Resignation
by Voice of San Diego, April 5, 2023
Segment 4
0:41:01 - 1:05:12
In 2025, San Diego Can’t Look Away from the Screaming
by Scott Lewis, January 1, 2025
City’s Housing Agency Won’t Issue Vouchers for New Housing Projects
The San Diego Housing Commission has decided it no longer has the resources to dole out vouchers to specific low-income housing projects, a move expected to slow the pace of new homeless housing.
by Lisa Halverstadt, January 2, 2025
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is the last episode of 2024 and we have a super mega roundtable for you.
I am in studio with the core four – Lopez, Jakob, Bella – and we have one open seat so we’re going to bring in one reporter at a time. We’ll ask them each what’s going to happen. What’s one thing they want to know "What’s going to happen?"
I think that’s the core compelling ingredient of media of all kinds. If a piece of content makes you wonder “What’s going to happen?” you’re hooked. So prepare to be hooked.
Show Outline and Notes
You can show your support for our podcast today by going to vosd.org/podpeople.
00:00:00 Intro
00:06:56 Segment 1
What’s Going to Happen to TikTok?
Bella Ross - Social Media Producer
Pew Research on TikTok
Book: Infinite Just
What’s Going to Happen to Forces of Gentrification on the South Bay?
Jim Hinch - South County Reporter
Gentrification Is Coming for South San Diego County
South County leaders have made it a goal to catch up to wealthier North County cities. But the race to the top risks leaving some residents behind.
Port of San Diego: Chula Vista Bayfront
Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center
00:29:12 Segment 2
What’s Going to Happen to Nathan Fletcher and His Accuser?
Andrea Lopez-Villafaña, Managing Editor, Daily News
Who Is Nathan Fletcher? San Diego Explained
Fletcher Resigns as MTS Chair as Former Agency Employee Accuses Him of Sexual Harassment and Assault in Lawsuit
Morning Report: MTS to Release Fletcher Investigation
What’s Going to Happen to Del Mar Housing?
Tigist Layne - North County Reporter
Morning Report: The Builder’s Remedy Prevailed in an LA Court. Will the Same Happen in Del Mar?
00:36:46 Segment 3
What’s Going to Happen to AI in San Diego Schools?
Jakob McWhinney - Education Reporter
The Learning Curve: San Diego Unified’s AI Future Is Now
San Diego Unified paid $83,000 to integrate its high school English curriculum into an online platform and got access to an AI tool as well. Now, some teachers are using it to grade student work.
The Progress Report: AI Is in Use at San Diego Unified – But the District Doesn’t Have its Own Plan
The rise of AI-supported education technology caught San Diego Unified without a policy. Now, as teachers and students within the district have begun to use AI products in the classroom, district leaders are creating one.
What’s Going to Happen to Federal Funding and the Impact on Environmental Projects?
MacKenzie Elmer - Environment Reporter
Officials Fear Nightmare Flooding from New Tijuana River Border Wall
A lifting gate structure could impede the Tijuana River’s flow if it fails to rise during heavy rains like San Diego just experienced.
Time to Evacuate the Tijuana River Valley?
County officials said the pollution problem is far from triggering a mandatory mass exodus from South Bay, but it’s not totally outside the realm of possibilities.
00:50:43 Segment 4
What’s Going to Happen to the City of San Diego in an “Era of Austerity”?
Scott Lewis - Editor in Chief
County Supe Slams San Diego Mayor’s Budget
City Council budget hearings will begin next week. The City Council has until June 30 to approve the budget.
Cup of Chisme: Cuts Hit Different
What’s Going to Happen to the Mega Shelter?
Lisa Halverstadt - Homelessness
What We Know About the Mayor’s Mega Shelter Pitch
Mayor Todd Gloria unveiled a plan to convert a large warehouse near downtown into a 1,000-bed homeless shelter.
Four Big Disputes Dogging the City’s Quest to Open Its Biggest Shelter Yet
The City Council is set to vote Monday on a proposed 1,000-bed shelter and there are lots of questions and disagreements over the city’s plans.
Morning Report: Mega-Shelter Monday July 22, 2024
The 30-year lease agreement for the Middletown warehouse the city wants to turn into the city’s largest long-term homeless campus – and the concept itself – have spawned major questions: What’s the value of the building? Can the city count on the site and its potential landlord? Should the city open a big shelter and pull from housing funds to pay for it? Is it sustainable?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we have a special episode for you. This coming year is going to be a difficult one for leaders of San Diego Unified School District. They are facing a massive budget deficit, ongoing stagnation in enrollment. They’re grappling with the aftermath of scandals involving sexual misconduct allegations that got the attention of the federal government and brought down the district’s superintendent.
Cody Petterson was just named the new school board president. He’ll guide the five member Board of Education for the District.
He’s taking over that role from his colleague, trustee Shana Hazan.
Both of them came into the studio to talk about all these issues and more. It was a frank and interesting exchange on some very touchy topics in education.
Show Notes
You can show your support for our podcast today by going to vosd.org/podpeople
Links
San Diego Unified School District Board of Education
About
Shana Hazan Board President - District B Term Expires: December 2026
Cody Petterson Board Vice President - District C Term Expires: December 2026
Selected Recent VOSD Stories: San Diego Unified School District
Oct 14, 2024
San Diego Student Test Scores Haven’t Made Up Pandemic Losses
The slow recovery from pandemic performance drop offs coupled with growing budget woes may spell trouble for districts like San Diego Unified.
Sep 12, 2024
Billions of Dollars Later, Some San Diego Unified Students Still Dealing with Hot Classrooms
Taxpayers have voted to give San Diego Unified School District $11.5 billion over the last 16 years with the express purpose of bringing working air...
Sep 5, 2024
New San Diego Schools Superintendent Didn’t Mention Misconduct or Victims in Speech to Principals
Over multiple district communications since Lamont Jackson's firing, there's been a group of people conspicuously missing.
Sep 3, 2024
Lamont Jackson Is Out as San Diego Unified Supe. What’s Next?
Fabiola Bagula, who was elevated to acting superintendent from her deputy superintendent role after Jackson's firing, seems poised to keep that role.
Aug 29, 2024
Investigation Into San Diego Unified Superintendent Substantiates Allegations of Misconduct Involving Staff
The allegations against Superintendent Lamont Jackson were levied by former San Diego Unified School District staff.
Aug 19, 2024
Feds Slam San Diego Unified’s Handling of Sexual Misconduct
A new report from the U.S. Department of Education skewers how San Diego Unified for years handled sexual misconduct complaints.
Aug 12, 2024
School Is Back in Session: 4 Education Stories to Follow
Believe it or not, most schools in San Diego County are back in session. If the new school year snuck up on you, that's likely because start dates have been…
Jun 12, 2024
The Learning Curve: San Diego Unified’s AI Future Is Now
San Diego Unified paid $83,000 to integrate its high school English curriculum into an online platform and got access to an AI tool as well.
Jun 11, 2024
San Diego Unified High Schoolers: Getting Great Grades But Troubling Test Scores
An analysis of thousands of letter grades from San Diego Unified high schoolers shows that far more students pass classes in subjects like English, math and...
May 20, 2024
San Diego Unified Investigating Superintendent Lamont Jackson
Though a district official has confirmed an investigation is occurring, no one will say what prompted it.
May 17, 2024
San Diego Unified Is Slowly Embracing Science of Reading
The district has long relied on an approach to teaching kids to read that's not back by science. Now, officials are working to change that – but it hasn't...
May 16, 2024
San Diego Unified Walks Back Majority of Teacher Layoffs
District officials announced Thursday that they had rescinded 96 percent of the layoff notices issued in March.
Feb 26, 2024
‘I Can’t Wait Until You’re 18’: Despite Years of Sexual Harassment Allegations, San Diego Unified Allowed Teacher to Quietly Retire
For years, students and faculty at Roosevelt Middle filed complaints against a middle school math teacher. Students alleged he'd grabbed their butts,...
Feb 21, 2024
San Diego Unified Board Member: Teacher Layoffs Are Coming
In June, San Diego Unified officials announced the district was projecting big deficits in the coming years. The expiration of hundreds of millions of...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
December 13, 2024
The election just ended. The election just started. We often accuse politicians of being short sighted but one thing they definitely plan far in advance is their next political move. We may have heard the first shots in the 2028 mayoral race.
The city has a new president of the City Council and the region has a new Republican leader, same as the old one.
And the county passed a rule about what the sheriff can and cannot do with immigration enforcement officers and the sheriff said thank you but I run my own show.
We get into the meat and potatoes of it all.
Show Notes
San Diego's Pension Scandal:
Wikipedia San Diego pension scandal
VOSD Mayor Announces New Pension Board Nominees; Whistleblower’s Name Absent
by Andrew Donohue
February 28, 2005
La Jolla Secession:
VOSD Morning Report: In Point Loma, Talk of Secession
by Randy Dotinga
January 6, 2011
VOSD Mayor Gloria Chimes in on La Jolla Secession
‘As a Mayor, I wouldn’t recommend it,’ he said on the VOSD Podcast last week.
by Jakob McWhinney
December 10, 2024
101 Ash Street (the former Sempra building)
Wikipedia 101 Ash Street
VOSD How the City Came to Lease a Lemon
It’s likely the city never would have purchased 101 Ash St. if a developer hadn’t come along to act as middleman. But that structure also laid the groundwork for a situation that is stunningly messy even in the canon of San Diego real estate history.
by Lisa Halverstadt and Jesse Marx
August 10, 2020
San Diego City Council Meeting Item 330: Proposed Settlement Agreement Involving Acquisition of the 101 Ash Street and Civic Center Plaza Properties
Carl DeMaio
Carl DeMaio Won an Assembly Seat but the Road to Victory Was Vicious
The Republican Party of San Diego County has been absorbed in a family feud centered around their newest elected official, incoming Assembly member Carl DeMaio.
by Deborah Sullivan Brennan
December 6, 2024
Sanctuary City San Diego
Border Report: Schools, Churches Mull Sanctuary Policies
by Brooke Binkowski
December 5, 2016
Neither San Diego – Nor California – Is a Sanctuary for the Undocumented
by Scott Lewis
February 21, 2017
Border Report: What a Sanctuary City Is, and Isn’t
by Kate Morrissey
December 9, 2024
Jim Desmond's Instagram Account
What does it mean to become a “Super” Sanctuary County? To fully grasp the implications, you need to understand California’s current sanctuary state law and its impact.
San Diego County Board of Supervisors Meeting Agenda Item 29
SUBJECT: ADOPTING A BOARD POLICY ON IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT
TO ENHANCE COMMUNITY SAFETY (DISTRICTS: ALL)
December 10, 2024
Agenda Item 29 PDF
Meeting Video on YouTube
Statement on Board of Supervisors Vote on Immigration Enforcement
Sheriff's Office to continue following state law.
Post Date:12/10/2024 5:15 PM
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’ve got the full crew in today to host a conversation with Mayor Todd Gloria, fresh off re-election, the mayor has no honeymoon. A huge budget deficit is coming up and his plan to deal with it – a tax increase – failed.
For more on the issues:
Can San Diego Finally Pass a Sales Tax Increase?
Politics Report: The Civic Center Dream
101 Ash St.
Newly Homeless Residents Still Outpacing Newly Housed
Homelessness Crisis Response System 2023 Data and Performance Report
Morning Report: The Battle Against Homeless Shelters
Wendy's - 'Where's the Beef ' Ad (Original - 1984)
La Jollans Are Trying to Divorce San Diego (Again)
November 1, 2024 Podcast: 2024 Election Draft Pick (start at 16:40 for Andrea’s description of the Mayor’s pup)
Support VOSD: Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week is thanksgiving so what better time for us to bring back beef week? It’s more like Beef 10 Days. It may seem incongruent but we should all be thankful we can beef in local politics without violence or whatever.
And we have a special guest this week, Council President Sean Elo-Rivera is here. We’ll talk about the election and some tough decisions coming up for him and his colleagues.
LINKS
For more on the issues:
Beef Week
No Longer ‘Norita.’ Some of Nora Vargas’ Constituents Sour on her Leadership
It’s Impossible to Pee Legally in San Diego
Sean Elo-Rivera Official City Webpage
Sean Elo-Rivera Instagram
Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Registrar of Voters made us wait six days for an update on the vote count from November 5 – 16 days ago. The main local race we’re still watching is the Oceanside mayoral race. Just 31 votes separated the incumbent and her challenger.
Senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry will join us later on the show to explain why the city of San Diego has purchased at least $1 million worth of gear from a man involved in one of the largest law enforcement scandals in San Diego’s history.
And new data about local schools just dropped. There’s some encouraging news but it’s still kind of bleak.
For more on the issues:
Bill Walton FBI files
Pop culture in the FBI filing cabinet:
Sanctuary City rhetoric
KTLA’s Story on LA’s Sanctuary City declaration
A Man Convicted in a Major Law Enforcement Scandal Is Doing Big Business with the City
Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We are still processing the election, as I am sure all of you are. But at least some questions have been answered. We’ll go through those updates.
And, where does the city of San Diego go from here? The mayor and Council President got re-elected but a sales tax failed and a deficit looms. A lot of people are worried about big cities and we get it.
For more on the issues:
Deadly Failure: A Sailor’s Struggle in a Fractured Mental Health System,
NBC San Diego VOD
VOSD Story
Election 2024
San Diego County Unofficial Election Results
The Learning Curve: Bazzo Has Likely Won – Just Barely
Politics Report: Baked Months Ago
Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Well, that was an election. We will go back through the races we drafted last week. As always, there are a couple nail-biters as we begin the tradition of waiting for updates every afternoon.
But we can say that San Diego incumbents did well. Mayor Todd Gloria and the City Councilmembers hoping for another term did fine. So did Terra Lawson Remer, the county supervisor who faced down millions in spending against her.
Turns out all she had to do was all we suspected she had to do: Connect her opponent Kevin Faulconer to Trump. But like everywhere else in the country, Trump did better here than before.
For more on the issues:
Union Tribune College/Talmadge/Montezuma Rd Fire Photo
Scott’s Twitter/X palm tree post
Jakob’s Twitter/X young voters post
Voices of the Voters
Election Results: We’re Waiting on These Races
North County Report: Election Results Are Rolling In
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coming up on the show this week… It’s time. This is our last show before the apocalypse.
We’ve got a special roundtable to go through our ranking of the best elections to watch Tuesday. Local elections that is. The Voice of San Diego elections draft and the elections contest are back. We’ll do it.
For more on the issues:
San Diego 2024 Election: What’s at Stake
Politifest 2024: News and Media
Voice of San Diego relies on reader and listener support:
Voice Member Benefits
Join today and receive insider access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s the last lap of this election season and we have updates on several major races in San Diego.
Is Mayor Todd Gloria overstating his creation of homeless shelter beds? Yes. Did Terra Lawson Remer use campaign funds for her kid’s preschool? Yes. She has a good defense but it’s interesting.
And in South Bay, the chair of the County board of Supervisors has created several enemies.
Finally, remember that fake charity that had fake volunteers selling concessions at Petco Park? Well two of its workers are now running a new charity. The thing is, we cannot figure out what the charity does.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coming up on the show this week…
We’ve got more mailers here to dissect. We’ll cut through what campaigns want voters to know and what we don’t even understand like: Why are California realtors bullying a candidate for her poker playing skills?
There’s a newspaper endorsement that’s not really a newspaper endorsement … It is silly season in San Diego.
To wrap it up, We’ll talk about a key school board race and the latest in the biggest race of them all – the District 3 County Supervisor contest.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coming up on the show this week…
The race between Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer and former mayor Kevin Faulconer is easily the hottest race this year. Millions are being spent on behalf of the candidate. The mailers are getting wild. We’ll get into it.
Speaking of mailers, we’ve got some good ones.
Plus, the latest in the city attorneys race and can a new million dollar infusion help a cop beat the incumbent mayor in the mayor’s race?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We got through Politifest. We’re going to discuss some of the many things people said and didn’t say. It was a big day for us.
Also, why does Brian Maienschein, who is running for city attorney, have a campaign finance account for an attorney general race in 2030. We posted an explainer we can give you the cliff’s notes on.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A million dollars has already gone into the big county supervisors race from outside groups – most of it in support of mayor Kevin Faulconer, and if you’re in the district, you can tell from your mailbox. Usually mail waits until ballots are out.
That’ll be our introduction into Politifest Week. We’ve been trying to run the show like normal while preparing for our big annual gathering. We’re going to go through some of the sessions we’re most excited to see.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why the San Diego Republican party has had it with Carl DeMaio. Nobody has been more influential than him in the party but resources are now going to flow to DeMaio’s opponent in a closely watched Assembly race. We’ll get into the beef.
Also, we’ve got more details on the allegations of sexual harassment against former San Diego Unified Superintendent Lamont Jackson. New documents reveal the allegations against him from two former high-ranking district officials.
And if you haven’t heard, we welcomed a new reporter this month. Jim Hinch is covering South County San Diego. He’ll join us later on the show to discuss his latest stories.
All of that and more in this week's episode.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city of San Diego stands to lose hundreds of shelter beds. Mayor Todd Gloria is proposing one solution: move some people from the Golden Hall shelter to the city’s safe camping sites.
Feels like the city and county are going backwards on shelter. We’ll dig into it.
University researchers raised an alarm about a toxic gas in the Tijuana River Valley, but the county says there’s no reason to panic right now.
And moments after we published a story about battery storage fire fears, a site in Escondido went up in flames.
All of that and more in this week's episode.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Unified School District, the second largest district in the state, fired its superintendent. It appears trustees have already settled on his successor. We’ll talk about what she apparently doesn’t want to talk about.
It’s been 10 years since California banned plastic bags at grocery and liquor stores. Now a San Diego lawmaker is trying to get the state to ban plastic bags at grocery stores. Why one of the statistics is shocking.
And we’re back with one of our favorite recurring segments: Climate change promises that are fun to make but really hard to pull off. This week? Battery facilities. Recent fires have caused a panic and may lead to bans. But where else are they going to store power for when the sun doesn’t shine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A few months ago Jakob here broke news that San Diego Unified School District had commissioned an investigation into its superintendent for alleged misconduct. Now, they’ve apparently finished that investigation. We’ll tell you what we know.
For months, Nathan Fletcher’s advocates have said he was wrongly accused of assault and that soon enough, they’ll have the receipts to prove it. A new court filing last week revealed text messages his accuser sent that do not help her case at all. We’ll review.
Finally, the county quietly lifted a major barrier to building housing in unincorporated areas of San Diego because of a case involving a recycling plant. We’ll explain how that happened.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Todd Gloria didn't speak at this year's Democratic National Convention, but it's no secret that he's tight with Vice President Kamala Harris. The crew talks about their friendship and whether Gloria could be headed to Washington if Harris wins in November. Jakob also takes a look back at Harris' record as attorney general of California, and senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry discusses his latest reporting on foster care charity New Alternatives.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Padres made franchise history with their latest winning streak and Scott can't wait to tell the crew about it. Also on the show this week: San Diego Unified gets slapped with significant Title IX violations, Cajon Valley School District tests a new state law and local foster care charity New Alternatives is the subject of a Voice investigation into its finances.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of the mayor's employees, a city police officer, is running to try to oust him. Larry Turner, a retired Marine, wants to make big changes to the police department. He wants to reduce pensions for future city employees, including police, and perhaps use bankruptcy to get there. He opposes a new sales tax for the city, which is on the November ballot. He thinks we could reapportion the hundreds of city special project funds to close the deficit. Voice Editor-in-Chief Scott Lewis talked with Turner about how he would change city government if he were to win.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scott and the team catch up on what he missed, including a big development in the local stormwater tax which won't make it onto the November ballot. They also discuss the latest development in the city's organic waste recycling program and share some honest admissions about their own green bin behavior.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city of San Diego is building a massive wastewater-to-drinking water recycling plant. It's going to cost billions and will require tearing up roads in the process. But after years of dumping sewage into the ocean, it may be time for a change. Plus, Lisa Halverstadt is back on the show this week with updates on county detox beds, the Hope @ Vine mega shelter and her take on Gov. Gavin Newsom's recent executive order.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Voice of San Diego's environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer joins the show to talk about a spate of recent bird deaths in the city. Advocates say fireworks are to blame. She also has the latest on the flood prevention measure that just got pulled from the November ballot. Senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry is back again this week, this time with north county reporter Tigist Layne. They've got a two-part series out now about a youth gymnastics scandal in Santee. You can read their stories here and here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Voice of San Diego's Will Huntsberry joins the show this week to discuss his new profile on Rep. Sara Jacobs. She's defied expectations with her voting record and is poised to become very powerful in Washington. Reporter Lisa Halverstadt also comes on to give an update about the Hope @ Vine mega shelter, which is facing a crucial City Council vote on Monday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The calls for President Biden to leave the presidential race have reached a fever pitch, and this week Rep. Scott Peters weighed in. If Biden does drop out, Bella has a prescient prediction for when he might do it. Plus, Scott points out all that we still don't know about the proposed mega shelter and Jakob makes a pitch for revamping the city of San Diego flag.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A brief history of drinking on the beach, an update on impending water rate hikes and what the Grants Pass ruling means for San Diego.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Water is about to get more expensive, but not for the reasons you might think. The region is water-rich following a record-setting rainy winter, but San Diegans still have to pay off decades-old investments provoked by drought times. That could mean big changes on your water bill starting next year.
Also on the show this week: Jakob's got an update on the sexual misconduct case against a former associate principal at Hoover High School, Scott talks state tax initiatives with local implications and Bella shares field notes from a visit to the Spring Valley shelter site that just got nixed after pushback from its neighbors.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scott sits down with San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria to talk about the big issue on everyone's mind: homelessness. They also discuss a proposed 1-cent sales tax increase and why the City is cracking down on beach yoga.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
AI has arrived at San Diego high schools in the form of a grading tool called Writable. Some confused school board members aren't exactly sure how. One thing's for sure: AI is rapidly changing the way teachers teach and students learn. Also on the show today, will there ever be a perfect place for homeless shelters? The short answer is no, but the city keeps on trying. Plus, North County reporter Tigist Lane on her latest Carl DeMaio story, and reporter Jakob McWhinney has a new investigation into grades versus test scores.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A local media outlet announced it was acquired by Arizona State University and will shift to a nonprofit business model. It's the latest in a series of moves by ASU to strengthen its presence in the San Diego area. But what does it mean for local news? Plus, big changes at the fast casual restaurant chain Rubio's, a new "power cocktail" being served up by San Diego Community Power and the impending closure of the downtown men's shelter, Golden Hall.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Reporter MacKenzie Elmer dug into the city of San Diego’s first audit of its contract with SDG&E. The big takeaway? The cost of burying powerlines has gotten way out of hand. She tells us how the city is using new leverage to try and get answers. Plus, a tribute to San Diego legend Bill Walton, the latest in the search for the next county administrative officer and why there's now a bidding war for Green Oak Ranch in Vista.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, the Voice of San Diego hosts share big news on the county CAO search and the region's latest homelessness numbers.
The Regional Task Force on Homelessness just dropped the data from it's annual point-in-time count, which shows the crisis is slowing down compared to last year, but remains worse than ever.
Plus: Education Reporter Jakob McWhinney shares what he knows about an investigation into San Diego Unified superintendent Lamont Jackson, and the owners of Fashion Valley Mall announce plans to close a major retailer in exchange for more housing.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, the Voice of San Diego hosts have the latest on a couple big stories we've been following.
But first we'll circle back to a topic we covered a while back — the regulation of street vendors — which is now creating problems for some yoga instructors and luxury picnic businesses that have been operating on public land.
Plus: Education reporter Jakob McWhinney on why all schools aren't using research-backed methods for teaching kids how to read. The hunt for a new county CAO sparks threats of a lawsuit. San Diego City Council appears unimpressed by revised lease terms for a proposed homeless shelter.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, the Voice of San Diego hosts dive into three burgeoning beefs between local politicos.
The hunt for a new county CAO has become highly political, and more recently devolved into a debate over what white people are allowed to say in Spanish.
Editor Scott Lewis pulls back the curtain on the backlash from some local leaders over statements candidate Bridgette Browning directed at Chair Nora Vargas during a labor rally.
Plus: South Bay leaders battle over proposed landfill. A bidding war between the supes and a local nonprofit over a Vista ranch. An update on Mayor Todd Gloria's proposed mega-shelter.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Senior investigative reporter Lisa Halverstadt has been watching the city of San Diego's real estate deals for years.
101 Ash St. was a notorious real estate endeavor in which the the city entered a lease-to-own deal for a downtown high rise. The deal was quickly engulfed in scandal and asbestos. After years of lawsuits and a criminal investigation, taxpayers paid more than $200 million dollars and the building remains vacant.
So, when Mayor Todd Gloria unveiled a big new deal for a big new building to be a new homeless mega shelter, Halverstadt dug in.
This week, Halverstadt discussed how this building came to the attention of city staff and the motivations of the man trying to sell it.
Plus: A new softball scandal. What "fire SDG&E" really means. Goodbye to Nate.
Subscribe to the North County report: vosd.org/northcounty
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It wouldn’t be a presidential election year without a massive list of ballot measures. But a big one that would have stuck it to San Diego Gas & Electric's power supremacy was stalled — in large part because of a labor union.
This week, we discuss a feud between SDG&E and public power proponents that played out in front of a San Diego City Council committee.
Plus: The forgotten history of Midway. Students walk out of Logan Memorial. Our fight for public records.
Join the fight for public records: vosd.org/court
Get the environment report: vosd.org/environment
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There was always a theory that if we were going to legalize cannabis, the people who used to get in trouble for selling it should get a chance to sell it again.
The city of San Diego secured a grant to give people like that a leg up. But now it looks like they'll have to send the grant money back.
This week, host Andrea Lopez-Villafaña shares an update to the city's Cannabis Social Equity program.
Plus: The uncanny valley of education. Big questions and budget woes decelerate Mayor Todd Gloria's homeless shelter deal.
Get the environment report to avoid swimming in poop water: vosd.org/environment
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It was a big week for things that used to be things.
The Republican Party of San Diego County, once a local political juggernaut, lost its chairwoman after an internal battle over Carl DeMaio, who is running for state Assembly against Andrew Hayes.
Despite DeMaio’s efforts to drag a Democrat to the runoff, he will face Hayes, a fellow Republican.
This week, we discuss the endorsement battle that threatened to splinter an already weak political faction — and ultimately led to the emergence of a new party leader.
Plus: Students learning online are performing way worse than their in-person peers. SDSU isn't interested in a Mission Valley arena.
Join the nature nerds with our biweekly Environment Report: vosd.org/environment
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tiara Gray was bright. She was artsy, well-written — an old soul in a young body, people said.
She was from the Appalachian region of Maryland, a small place with few prospects for what many consider "good careers."
Gray scored high on an aptitude test that caught the attention of the U.S. Navy. For Gray, like many people across the country, the military offered rare opportunities. So, she joined.
Through her recruitment process, Gray reportedly withheld information about her mental health. Lying is apparently common, and encouraged, during military recruitments.
This week, senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry tells Gray's story — and explains what happened after Gray was recruited, as she managed her fragile mental health while stuck in the machine of the U.S. Navy.
Listener warning: This discussion happens in the final segment of the show (after the ad break) and contains discussion of self harm and suicide.
If you or someone you know might be considering suicide, there is help. Call or text 988, the Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline.
Plus: Mayor Todd Gloria announces plans for a 1,000-bed shelter. And the most affordable housing projects in San Diego.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For a long time, Voice has followed the tale of school in Logan Heights.
The school has changed names and faces in recent years. It’s got an impressive new building. It used to be called Logan Memorial Prep, now it’s Logan Memorial Educational Campus.
Logan Memorial has served generations of residents. And through that time it has modified its educational offerings and appearance. But as host Jakob McWhinney explains this week, throughout all these changes one thing remained the same: its bad reputation. It’s still one of the most avoided schools in the district.
This week, we talk about what the school can do to turn things around.
Plus: New theme music. Baseball and Petco Park. An update to the Fletcher saga.
Join us for our spring fundraising campaign: vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Three propositions on the November ballot could change everything across the state of California.
This week, we discuss three props that are having direct conversations with each other. They're all about taxes — and how hard it should be for voters to pass them. The outcome of these props also impacts local measures that are moving forward to boost city revenue, fund stormwater systems and roads.
Plus: Baseball gloves. A new police chief. The broken border sewage plant.
Support the show and get your gift matched! Support us at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, the San Diego City Council voted to explore the creation of a special tax district. Some called it "a major subsidy" to a large-scale project that would redevelop Sports Arena and the surrounding area.
This special tax district could generate extra funds to make the big project possible, especially for all the extra infrastructure needed to serve the housing units that developers promised. The specific name for this kind of setup is called an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District. Or EIFD for short.
But, c'mon. What even is that? Scott Lewis will explain it.
Plus: When January flood victims suffered, local governments got caught in red tape. And even more election results.
Check out our newsletters: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The March Primary seemed like a boring lemon but we’re going to squeeze some juice out of it.
The VOSD Podcast is not the place for your Biden-Trump angst or opinions of how "feisty" the State of the Union was. This is the place for commentary on the city attorney "vibes vote," and to drill down Council districts and mayoral candidates.
This week, we discuss the Primary results.
Note: This podcast was recorded on Thursday afternoon. See vosd.org for the latest election info.
Plus: A city auditor's report shows how much the city overpaid for a hotel during the pandemic — and why.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gird your loins! It's Primary time.
This week, on the last podcast before the March 5 election, we run through the ballot — from U.S. Senate to City Council.
The electorate seems unenthused. Politico reports this election is on track for record-low turnout. And it kind of makes sense. California voters aren't tipping the scales on the Presidential election. Even the California Senate race (despite shattering spending records) is a surefire Dem win that won't affect party control in Congress.
But our crew suggests you think of your vote like this: Who do you want in second place?
This week: San Diego Mayor. City Council. The Cardenas siblings. And a new entry in our years-long investigation into school sexual misconduct.
Support the show: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week, senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry reported that some residents in southeastern San Diego have lost trust in local government.
Staff at the San Diego mayor’s office called that reporting “dangerous.”
This week, we discuss the original story, how residents felt about the city's neglect during the January floods, and responses by the mayor's communication staff.
Plus: City Council District 4 candidate Chida Warren Darby talks trust and allegiance. School layoffs are coming. And our school performance metric captures success and accounts for income.
Get your copy of the Schools Guide (and sign up for a workshop): vosd.org/schools
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s Mailer Season! And we are reaching novel levels of creativity.
This week, we perform high-level media criticism — LOL — on recent political mailers and materials that employed new, subversive strategies.
From County Supervisor to the San Diego Mayor's race, we have a new evolution of local politics playing out by mail. And billboard. And lawn sign.
Plus: A preview of local races ahead of the March election. And southeast residents have lost trust in local government.
Send your political mailers to Scott: scott@vosd.org
The 2024 Schools Guide is here! Get your copy: vosd.org/schools
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A throng of VOSD Podcast nerds nestled into the Modern Times Beer + Coffee outpost in Midway this week. Our pod crew was ready to dive headfirst into big city projects, taxes and fees.
But first, we brought up Voice environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer and a resident she recently profiled.
During the Jan. 22 storm, Jesse Preciado dove into rising floodwaters on his Southcrest street. He stripped down and got to work unclogging a vital storm drain to prevent further damage to his neighborhood homes. Elmer and Preciado discuss the storms and the state of southeast San Diego.
Hosts Scott Lewis, Andrea Lopez-Villafaña and Jakob McWhinney welcomed back Voice alum (and Axios San Diego writer) Andrew Keatts to talk about stormwater infrastructure, taxes, big city projects and big city energy.
Help us celebrate 19 years of journalism: https://vosd.org/happy19
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Southeastern San Diego residents have long sought help with stormwater management. Infrastructure inequities have plagued southern neighborhoods that hug the I-5. They've pleaded to local leaders for solutions. Now, after the Jan. 22 deluge hit underserved streets — and after more rain this week — they may finally see momentum.
This week, we discuss San Diego's stormwater system deficit. And San Diego City Council President Sean Elo-Rivera proposed a solution: a ballot measure to fund stormwater projects.
Plus: MTS dropped its big report into former County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher and former MTS employee Grecia Figueroa.
See you next Thursday! We'll be at Modern Times for a live show. Get tickets: vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Late last week, we got new filings in a lawsuit against former County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher — including Instagram messages between Fletcher and the woman who accused him of sexual harassment and sexual assault.
The two exchanged hundreds of messages and planned ways they could be alone. The messages show the woman, Grecia Figueroa, expressed interest on several occasions, including after the encounters she said were abusive.
This week, we review the messages to try to answer a question we've had since the scandal broke: What happened between Figueroa and Fletcher? Further, we try to determine why the Metropolitan Transit System fired Figueroa.
(MTS released its report the day after we recorded this show. We wrote about it here.)
Plus: The rain that rocked San Diego, destroyed homes and will be a new crisis for leaders to manage.
Join us on Feb. 8 for a live show: vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Next week, volunteers with the Regional Task Force on Homelessness will sweep county streets to try to count all unhoused residents.
It's a critical event that offers a broad view of our foremost crisis for 2024. But where do we stand now?
This week we discuss the city of San Diego's new homelessness fundraising campaign — and what it could do to alleviate the crisis. Plus, we review current County numbers and what the U.S. Supreme Court could decide about camping bans.
Lisa's story: "What Happened After the Ban"
Tickets to our Feb. 8 live podcast: vosd.org/events
The Sacramento Report returns: vosd.org/sac
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we pull apart San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria's State of the City address— reviewing his biggest talking points and assessments of the city's crises, including:
- Reforming Prop 47
- Retail theft
- Homeless shelter solutions
- Expediting permit applications
- Potholes and roads
In his speech, Gloria declared the city is getting stronger every day. Let's discuss.
Plus: San Diego Unified student school board members want a vote. Lincoln High's data dichotomy.
Our next live show is Feb. 8 at Modern Times Point Loma. Tickets: vosd.org/events
Get the podcast newsletter: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're gearing up for the State of the City address. Next week, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria will explain his vision for the city. So this week, we review the last address and make predictions for this year.
We're thinking: Homelessness. SB 43. Sales tax. Road repair love. A big development project reveal.
We'll be watching the address closely and will have takeaways in the next day's Morning Report. Don't miss it: vosd.org/morning
Other talking points: The fin whale murder mystery. U-T en Español is done. Pandemic-era school funding will expire soon.
Send us your questions or comments: nate@vosd.org
Support the show: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Content warning: This episode contains explicit language.
In preparation for the dawn of 2024, we've made a playlist by some of San Diego's finest music nerds. In addition to the songs, this episode is full of CBD kombucha, old friendships and reflection of the region's music scene.
Host Jakob McWhinney brought in some of his favorite local luminaries to discuss the past, present and future of San Diego music — and the meaning of "It's Gonna Blow!"
Guests and their songs:
Bill Perrine
"Everywhere with Sally" by Mark Tucker
Tim Pyles
"Lost in Loneliness" by Power Paws
Makeda "Dread" Cheatom
"Es Lo Que Es" by Boostive
Art Mitchell ("DJ Artistic")
"Back At Cha" by LPSD
Support the show: vosd.org/community
Get more show notes: vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, host Andrea Lopez-Villafaña drops her interview with new County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe.
This conversation happened fresh off a big week for Montgomery Steppe. She served on the San Diego City Council until the election for Council President, casting the deciding vote to secure Sean Elo-Rivera's position.
Then she was sworn in as Supervisor, replacing Nathan Fletcher to represent District 4 in the heart of the county. Her first big vote in that role was on SB 43 — a state law that expands definitions and use of conservatorship.
In this episode, Montgomery Steppe talks about her time on the City Council, how she pushed the Council to own its authority and how she wants to govern on the Board of Supervisors.
Support the VOSD Podcast at vosd.org/community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Arguably the biggest local politics story of the year was the collapse of former County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher.
He was one of the most powerful elected officials in the region, on the fast track for state Senate. But he resigned from the Board of Supervisors and as Metropolitan Transit System board chair after he was accused of sexual harassment and assault by an MTS employee.
This scandal spawned two big stories that shaped San Diego politics this year:
- The special election to replace Fletcher on the Board of Supervisors
- The MTS investigation and lawsuit by the accuser
This week, we have an update in the saga and discuss questions still unanswered.
Other talking points: When palm trees fight back. Who's going to replace Monica Mongtomery Steppe on the San Diego City Council? Sunbreak drama.
Support our year-end campaign! We need 100 new members by Dec. 31. Join the Voice community at vosd.org/community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We want to make sure your podcast feed is full for all the time off and travel you've got coming up. So this week, we have an extra episode for you — another Happy Hour with a few of our friends.
We're joined by USA Today reporter (and Voice alum) Will Carless and local entrepreneur, brewer and podcaster, Steve Garcia.
Talking points:
- Humane Society pets sold as snake food
- The rising cost of everything
- Failure, softball and you
- Jan. 6 from the front row
- A San Diego murder mystery
Follow everything VOSD Podcast with the newsletter: vosd.org/pod
Support the show: vosd.org/community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer is making more news these days as he seeks a seat on the County Board of Supervisors.
And this week he opined on some big homelessness ideas.
Sunbreak Ranch is a farfetched plan that the city of San Diego could create a camp — far from residential areas — to provide shelter and services to unhoused folks. The idea gained steam as local philanthropists got behind it. And now, Faulconer's in.
Through his spokesman, Faulconer also indicated he does not support one of the city's current big ideas to build services and shelter at "H Barracks," which could accomodate 300 to 700 people.
On the podcast this week, we unpack the dueling plans — and the new conservatorship law with senior investigative reporter Lisa Halverstadt.
Plus: FBI and DA's office are investigating stadium scandals. Sean Elo Rivera narrowly kept Council Presidency. County Supes postpone conservatorship.
See the stadium concessions investigation at vosd.org/concessions
Support our work at vosd.org/community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scott Lewis, Andrea Lopez-Villafaña and Jakob McWhinney are cooking up the hottest beef that dropped this week.
We revived a reporting series dedicated to the feuds that light up public affairs and demonstrate how the region works. We call it Beef Week. (Credit to Voice Podcast alum Sara Libby.) Let's fire 'em up:
- Everyone vs. Todd Gloria
- Pickleball vs. Tennis
- Palomar Health vs. Board Members
- San Diego Water Authority vs. Rainbow, Fallbrook
Plus: The latest on San Diego City Council's new housing plan. San Diego's innovative ADU approach.
Join the Voice community with a donation: vosd.org/community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two women face eviction from their Golden Hill duplex. The building owner seeks to redevelop their building into a dense residential structure. It’s a crappy situation for the current residents. But the project could turn four units into 108.
That’s in the works due to the city of San Diego’s Complete Communities plan from 2020. This week, we discuss the new version of the plan that came to the City Council this week — and why it failed.
Plus: Our recent Politics Report about cannabis and Jesus Cardenas and Councilman Stephen Whitburn made waves. Chula Vista's Amphitheater knew about a shady concession situation years ago. Our funny dispensary stories.
No show next week. We'll see you after Thanksgiving for Beef Week: vosd.org/beef
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry is back with a new revelation about the nonprofits that staff concession stands for the region's biggest events at places like Petco Park and Snapdragon Stadium.
At least one nonprofit, he recently found, didn't really exist. And the once ad-hoc system to staff awkward schedules for sport seasons has morphed into something shady. Nonprofits, which get a cut of the revenue, need a lot of volunteers to feed a stadium of people hotdogs and beer. So, who are these volunteers? This week, we find out.
Plus: Monica Montgomery Steppe won the special election for County Supervisor. Cardenas siblings continue to face fallout after the District Attorney announced charges of fraud against them. Downtown is average.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former Voice of San Diego editor Andrew Donahue called us up this week. He dove into the sale of the Union-Tribune and has resurfaced to explain his findings. In short: It's the beginning of the end for the U-T.
In this episode, Donahue reveals new details from the day of the sale — how a rep for the new owners, Alden Global Capital, quickly appeared and started to pull apart the paper.
We also review the U-T's recent owners, its attempt to adapt to newer subscriber models and its likely future of pushing out papers till it bleeds dry.
Plus: Cardenas siblings charged with felonies. San Diego leaders float new affordable housing ideas. Santa Anas, am I right?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Throughout San Diego, neighborhoods are struggling to balance police enforcement, homeless camps and homeless solutions. One proposed homeless shelter near Point Loma is alarming some residents — due, in part, to its size.
This week, we discuss that proposed site known as H Barracks, which could house 300 to 700 people.
Plus: The Stockton neighborhood wants more police. The schools parents avoid. A 2024 election preview.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're in your podcast feed early this week with another Politifest 2023 drop: "What We Know About Homelessness" with Dr. Margot Kushel.
Kushel, one of the nation's foremost experts on health and homelessness, sat down with Voice of San Diego senior investigative reporter Lisa Halverstadt to break down an unprecedented study on homelessness
Led by Kushel, the study included interviews of nearly 3,200 people across the state. Kushel summarized the study's findings for us in this interview, including demographic breakdowns, behavioral health, substance use and treatment, and supports the state needs.
See all our videos, transcripts and reports from Politifest 2023 at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At least three people in law enforcement are running for local elected office. Two police officers seek to unseat the San Diego mayor and City Council President. Another is aiming for Poway City Council.
This week, we discuss the candidates — and why cops are seeking political power.
Plus: Coronado passes a new housing plan to comply with state law. Barrio Logan Planning group is breaking. The City Attorney job debate continues.
Watch all our panels from Politifest 2023 at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Politifest 2023 was dedicated to housing and water, California's foremost crises. The public affairs extravaganza featured lively debates and discussions dedicated to these complex issues — aiming to make break news and inform the public. Now, we'll be dropping some of our favorite panels in the feed for you.
First up is our capstone convo with California Attorney General Rob Bonta. Our regular podcast hosts — Scott Lewis, Andrea Lopez-Villafaña and Jakob McWhinney — roped in LA Times reporter Liam Dillon and Voice environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer, who are experts on this year's themes.
Ahead of Bonta's arrival, they reviewed highlights of the day from our water panels. Then they got into housing laws. This podcast ends with Dillon interviewing Bonta one-on-one, drilling down on housing policy, homelessness and shelter.
See more at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Another Politifest has come and gone. News was broken. Acronyms explained. Sweat shed. Now we're left with a treasure trove of public affairs content. Strap on your bibs. This week, we review some highlights:
- A special election debate for County Supervisor
- An authoritative report on homelessness by Dr. Margot Kushel
- Attorney General Rob Bonta addressees homeless enforcement and shelter
Plus, the big Sunbreak Ranch idea.
Catch Politifest videos, reports and transcripts: politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, one of the most controversial plans in local politics was quashed. The San Diego Association of Governments board voted to remove the driving fee from all future plans.
The fee was devised as a funding source to supplement gas tax revenue as hybrid and electric cars became more popular. And it was a driving deterrent to help the region meet its emission targets.
But now that idea is dead. Not coincidentally, Hasan Ikhrata is leaving SANDAG as executive director soon.
In this episode we review how it happened, the political implications and what's next for SANDAG.
Plus: College rankings explained. Blowout in Barrio Logan over police. Politifest is nigh!
Get your tickets at politifest.org
See Andrea, Scott and Jakob's newsletters at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last month, students at Correia Middle School in Point Loma reported seeing a classmate brandish a gun.
The following week, more allegations surfaced about the classmate in question. School Facebook groups blew up; parents spun. And in the aftermath, families demanded answers about San Diego Unified’s discipline policies.
In this episode, host Jakob McWhinney clarifies the messy story.
Plus: More arguments on the City Attorney job change. San Diego water costs soar. Western water leaders duke it out at Politifest.
Get your Politifest tickets now at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There's an election for San Diego City Attorney in 2024. Current City Attorney Mara Elliott is termed out. Running to replace her are Deputy City Attorney Heather Ferbert and Assemblyman Brian Maienschein.
The 2024 ballot could ask voters to choose not only who should be City Attorney — but what the City Attorney should do.
On the show this week, our crew discusses the unique role of the San Diego City Attorney, its tumultuous history — and how it could change.
Plus: Southwestern College tests out competency-based degrees. And former County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher responds to the accusations of sexual harassment and assault against him.
Support us: Donate to Voice today and mention the podcast. We may read your note in the next episode! vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, San Diego City Councilman Kent Lee joined us for a live show in North Park.
Cozied up to the beer fermenters in Original 40 Brewing, hosts Scott Lewis, Andrea Lopez-Villafaña and Jakob McWhinney spilled the tea on local public affairs. Because that’s what the people came for, right?
Talking points: Civic Center redevelopment project. The housing crisis. The cost-of-living crisis. Nudists. And audience games!
Support the show — and local journalism — at vosd.org/supporter
Register for Politifest 2023 at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Senior investigative reporter Will Huntsberry joins us to discuss his new investigation. He revealed a fake nonprofit that operated concession stands in Petco Park for nine years, earning a cut of the profits.
A snapshot of the earning potential just this year shows the nonprofit, "Chula Vista Fast Pitch," worked enough concession stands to pull in $370,000.
On the show this week, we review the story — including the nature of nonprofit vendor work at Petco (and Snapdragon Stadium), how this fake nonprofit came to be, who was behind it, who's ultimately responsible and the fallout after the story broke.
Plus: Chronic absenteeism has exploded for kindergartners. San Diego homeless encampments changed a lot this summer. Tony Gwynn.
See you soon! Get your tickets to our next live show at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego’s men’s soccer team — San Diego Loyal of the United Soccer League — announced this will be their final season.
In May, a coalition of investors bought into Major League Soccer and had their own announcement: a new team is coming to town. They have squeezed out San Diego Loyal.
This week, KPBS's Andrew Dyer — a local soccer nut and host of the San Diego Loyal Locals podcast — joins us to review the recent history of local soccer. We take it back to 2018 and the failed Soccer City project, discuss highlights of the Loyal’s legacy and how San Diego State University steered local soccer to where we are now.
Plus: Hurricane Hilary. The latest in the Nathan Fletcher lawsuits. And a new "Song of the Week."
Join us for our next live podcast and more at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego City Councilwoman Monica Montgomery Steppe is commanding a big lead in the special election to replace Nathan Fletcher on the Board of Supervisors. Amy Reichert is also going to the November runoff election.
On the podcast, we discuss the results, the race thus far and look ahead at a weird race in a heavily Democratic district.
Also riding high: Parents, students and educators gear up for a new school year. Host Jakob McWhinney shares the big school stories he's watching.
Also riding high: UC San Diego researchers innovate in mushroom studies and more at their first psychedelics research lab.
Also riding high: Palomar Health's anxiety. After a big budget plunge last fiscal year, how will the public healthcare provider recover?
See you soon! Get your tickets for our next Brews & News live podcast at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer explains some of the drama going down in water politics.
It all started when a couple farming communities tried to divorce the San Diego Water Authority. Now, rural districts seek to change the whole voting structure — with the help of state lawmakers.
Plus: How to be a great composter. A Southeastern San Diego nonprofit loses community support. The last week before the special election.
Subscribe to the Environment Report: vosd.org/environment
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Few joys in life match a breezy summer night gossiping with good friends over cold drinks. And in this first-ever “Happy Hour” special episode, that’s what we’ve got for you.
Hosts Scott Lewis and Andrea Lopez-Villafaña chat with guests Alain Stephens, reporter from The Trace, and Greg Moran, investigative reporter formerly with the The Union Tribune.
Our stories:
"Selling Sunset" star tied to landlord who tried to burn tentants out.
Secret stories of the gun industry and the U.S. government.
A short and expensive history of San Diego desalination.
How the Fat Leonard scandal that blew a hole in the U.S. Navy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday was the first day San Diego police could enforce the homeless camping ban — made to crack down on specific areas of the city where street camping has proliferated.
Voice reporter Lisa Halverstadt has been following this ban since its inception. This week she surveyed common camping areas to see how the city and police curbed campsites and affixed new warning signs. She shares all the latest details on the city's homeless efforts in the podcast.
Plus:Halverstadt broke the news that the city's largest homeless services provider — Father Joe's Villages — is in hot water.
Also this week: The worst trees in San Diego. Transpo leader Hasan Ikhrata is out. Fact check on Monica Montgomery Steppe's "defund the police" record.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A few weeks ago, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria asked a question — daring reporters to find out, "What other jurisdictions are applying for Homekey dollars?"
"Homekey" is a state project doling out big money for new housing. Local municipalities can apply for funds to help boost permanent supportive housing projects. San Diego has applied for more than $105 million of this funding, chiefly to convert motels to permanent rooms.
And despite this crisis hampering the whole region, host Andrea Lopez-Villafaña found the city of San Diego is indeed shouldering the county's weight.
This week, we discuss Homekey, housing and homelessness — including the city of Chula Vista's approach and fact checks for common homelessness assumptions.
Subscribe to support Voice and stay informed: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Mailers are like the core concentrate of local politics. If you boil down politics, you're left with mailer content."
This week, our hosts discuss political mailers. While mailers are objectively annoying inbox filler that most people throw, they are created by strategists who have a lot of data about who they're targeting. Therefore, in addition to the argument for or against any given candidate, the postal padding also serves as a proxy for what the experts think they know about the electorate.
In this episode, we discuss the art of mailers and what local political groups are trying to express ahead of the special election to replace Nathan Fletcher on the Board of Supervisors.
Plus: A new amendment to the lawsuit against Fletcher. More Union-Tribune staff depart. And the latest in water politics as two North County farming communities continue to try to divorce the San Diego Water Authority.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Los Angeles' richest man, Patrick Soon-Shiong, sold the San Diego Union-Tribune and the LA Times to MediaNews Group, owned by Alden Global Capital.
The U-T has had six owners since 2009. Soon-Shiong at the start of his tenure promised "stability." Now it seems there's anything but.
This week on the show, we discuss how the news came trickling out at the start of the week — followed quickly by staff reduction notices and buyout offers for the waning paper. We also look at the wider picture: How did newspapers get to this point? And is there a route to stability for regional journalism?
Plus: Former mayor Kevin Faulconer announced his bid for County Supervisor. The special election to replace former Supervisor Nathan Fletcher is almost here. And San Diego Unified's school board is oddly... unified.
Support VOSD with a donation or subscription.
Donate at vosd.org/donate
Subscribe at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we've got updates from the highly anticipated safe camping site put in place by the city of San Diego.
The city opened the site to provide unhoused residents a safe place to camp, made to be more attractive than sidewalks. The first of two such sites, it precedes stricter enforcement to get tents off city streets and away from sensitive areas like schools.
On the show, reporter Lisa Halverstadt details the amenities and intake numbers — and a new story about how increased homeless enforcement may affect Black San Diegans disproportionately.
Plus: A wealthy family’s 100-year-old company is blocking a permanent housing project. And San Diego Unified is facing big budget deficits.
Keep up with all our stories with the Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and other city leaders announced the opening of a safe camping site for homeless residents. It's first of two in the coming months — along with a new ban on camping, which narrowly passed the City Council last week. The ban expands current restrictions with further attention to sensitive areas such as schools and is now set to take effect in late July. Another, larger camp site is on tap for the fall.
We discuss the details of the new site as part of a robust effort by Gloria to reduce tents on the streets.
Plus: Two sales tax measures may hit the 2024 ballot. And a weird protest hits a Rancho Peñasquitos library.
Support VOSD and the podcast as we close out the fiscal year: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's co-host, Jakob McWhinney, shared in this episode a framework he often uses to consider San Diego's present state and future: "It's gonna blow."
The Padres are going to acquire huge stars and take off. San Diego's going to be a hot new music scene. Democrats are going to transform county government. The big thing is always going to happen.
McWhinney and hosts Scott Lewis and Andrea Lopez-Villafaña review this week's news with that framework in mind: SDSU, sports, homelessness, billionaire investors and more.
Subscribe to our most popular product, the Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After hours of public discussion and debate, the San Diego City Council narrowly approved a law that would ban camping on public land.
The ban would bar homeless camps in public spaces at all times when shelter is available. And when shelter isn't available, tents would still be banned within two blocks of schools or shelters, as well as in canyons and along transit hubs and waterways.
The pod crew gets into what it all means.
Support the show at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Days before the San Diego City Council voted on a camping ban pushed by Mayor Todd Gloria, he joined us in the Voice of San Diego studio to discuss his approach to homelessness.
Host Scott Lewis had a lot of questions for him. What does the ban do that laws on the books don't do? How will it be enforced? What about this is different than what former mayor Kevin Faluconer did?
Note: The City Council narrowly approved the ban on June 13, 2023. Read our coverage at vosd.org
Support the show at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The new point-in-time count numbers are in. The annual homeless census showed a record surge in homelessness, reaching its highest point in 12 years.
On the podcast this week, we review the new data and particularly distressing increases among the senior population and in chronic homelessness.
We also have a story this week about the old data: According to a report by our Will Huntsberry, before the 2023 figures came out, the regional census (while an imperfect system of measure) actually showed a 10-year decline. Meanwhile homelessness has become more visible, and tragic, than ever.
These stories all come ahead of a highly-anticipated vote next week that aims to transform homelessness in the city of San Diego, further enforcing San Diego's ban on street camping while pushing residents toward shelters and safe camping sites.
Plus: Water politics is boiling. Andy is leaving.
Join the VOSD Podcast crew! Support our fiscal year-end campaign at: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A bill that passed quietly last year, signed by the governor with no meaningful opposition, has completely upended campaign finance and is causing confusion across the state.
This week, we unpack SB 1439, which requires elected officials to recuse themselves from votes involving anyone who gave them more than $250 in campaign contributions.
Also a year ago, a San Diego city ordinance went into effect to curb street vendors. Vendors now say vending is practically impossible.
Finally, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria is gearing up for a big vote on an ordinance that could ban camping in most public spaces. We assess his latest messaging on that front.
Plus: Andy Keatts has some news.
Keep up with all our stories with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week, we brought in KPBS reporter Andrew Bowen to talk about his new podcast, "Freeway Exit," dedicated to the past, present and future of freeways.
This is the full unabridged version of that interview — where Bowen and host Andrew Keatts are free to unleash their unbridled passion for freeways and transportation.
Here, they dig into the archival footage Bowen found to inform his series. They discussed a freeway decommissioning that's in the works in San Diego right now. And, some history: How President Dwight D. Eisenhower championed freeways and their proliferation throughout the country. They also discussed freeway revolts by local communities and a glimpse into a possible future of freeway use in the region.
Keep up with everything about the podcast with our weekly newsletter: vosd.org/pod
Support the show at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The County Board of Supervisors voted this week to approve loans to help the city of San Diego to buy property to house homeless San Diegans.
But it wasn't without controversy.
Local Republicans, including Supervisor Jim Desmond, argued housing alone won't solve the homelessness crisis. They say housing is only part of the solution and must be tied to drug and addiction treatment.
This week, we explain the arguments swirling around the once wonky policy debate over “housing first" — and how it has become a political wedge issue.
Plus: KPBS reporter Andrew Bowen discusses his new podcast about the past, present and future of freeways.
Support our North County coverage: vosd.org/NCountynews
Watch segments and snippets on YouTube: youtube.com/voiceofsandiego
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It was a momentous week in San Diego sports.
A Thursday press conference at Snapdragon Stadium made it official: Major League Soccer is coming to San Diego.
This week, host Scott Lewis described the scene before a "resplendent" stadium, where MLS and a gaggle of bigwigs (local and international) declared that in 2025, the highest level of men's soccer would branch out to San Diego
Scott and co-hosts Andrea Lopez-Villafaña and Andrew Keatts review how the city arrived at this big sports moment and the players who made it happen.
Plus: Workers in San Diego's urban core have learned police are slow or unresponsive for potentially violent interactions with homeless residents. And MTS is losing money on its ticketing app.
Subscribe for The Morning Report at vosd.org/morning
Support the podcast at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It was a packed house at Whistle Stop Bar this week. The homey "Greater Golden Hill" establishment has long been the heart of our live podcasts and this was our first show back since the pandemic — in front of a sold out crowd.
Hosts Scott Lewis, Andrew Keatts and Andrea Lopez Villafaña spoke with our special guests about homelessness, low riders, the Metropolitan Transit System, the Nathan Fletcher scandal — and the past, present and future of San Diego soccer. It was a great show! Enjoy.
Guests:
National City Councilmember and MTS Board Member Marcus Bush
San Diego Loyal Soccer Club President Ricardo Campos
Support the show and all our journalism at vosd.org/podpeople
Get the podcast newsletter at vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, the County Board of Supervisors decided how to replace Supervisor Nathan Fletcher. The board announced a special election, which will take place on Aug. 15. If no one captures more than 50 percent of the vote, then the contest will go to a general election on Nov. 7.
However, Fletcher's position is not yet vacant and we've heard no word from him since he resigned as MTS chair following allegations of sexual harassment and assault and announced he would resign from the Board in May. His office says he's been at a treatment center with no outside contact.
If Fletcher's resignation comes to pass, this special election will be triggered. In this episode, we discuss the board's decision and the current candidates.
Plus: The expiration of a federal order could allow more asylum seekers into the country (and San Diego). Is the region ready? And education reporter Jakob McWhinney explains some big shakeups at San Diego Unified.
Watch us on YouTube: youtube.com/voiceofsandiego
Support the show: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego police are stopping people almost 50 percent less than they were a couple years ago — and nobody can say exactly why.
A new analysis by Voice of San Diego revealed the decline in stops. Reporter Will Huntsberry crunched those numbers and joins us this week to break it down. And in a companion story, he honed in on data trending the same as ever: Racial disparities in police stops have crept up since 2020.
Also, host Andrea Lopez-Villafaña explains the unique history and management of Chicano Park and its Steering Committee.
Plus: New tenant protections, a potential overhaul of the Downtown-City Hall swath and the awkward race to fill Supervisor Nathan Fletcher’s seat.
Catch us on the Tube: youtube.com/voiceofsandiego
Support the show: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More uncertainty looms over the Metropolitan Transit Agency.
In this episode, we discuss this week's votes at MTS to try to install a permanent board chair after the Nathan Fletcher scandal. San Diego City Councilman Stephen Whitburn, in Fletcher's absence, is acting chair.
But no one got enough votes to clinch the gig.
It was a harsh rebuke of Whitburn by his Council colleagues — two of whom sit on the board, and one acting as an alternate for the mayor, voted against him. Per MTS rules, Whitburn will be interim chair for another month before voting resumes.
Plus: San Diego City Councilman Kent Lee asks a lot of questions about the homeless camping ordinance. And reporter Will Huntsberry lays out his new investigation.
Watch the podcast: youtube.com/voiceofsandiego
Join us for a live recording: vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we recap the latest from the fallout of County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher as the Board of Supervisors cast a "no confidence" vote and paused the process to hire a new chief administrative officer for the county — one of the most important things they would do this year.
And Voice multimedia journalist Ariana Drehsler joins the show to talk about her new photo essay, "The Faces of Homelessness."
It was a timely piece as the San Diego City Council is working to crack down on homeless camps. Meanwhile, the city aims to supply more shelter options — but is struggling to find permanent homes for people already in those shelters.
See Ariana's photo essay: vosd.org/ariana
Get tickets for our next live podcast: vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week we explained Nathan Fletcher's plummet following accusations that he sexually harassed and assaulted Metropolitan Transit System employee Grecia Figueroa — and the allegation against Fletcher and MTS that Figueroa was then fired for retribution.
Fletcher resigned as MTS chair and plans to resign as County Supervisor. But the scandal continues to bleed across the region.
This week, we review the fallout at MTS, the Board of Supervisors and the political shuffle as local leaders seek new opportunities. Amidst the chaos, MTS's interim board chair Stephen Whitburn may have a big opportunity to lead in the middle of dueling crises.
Join as a VOSD member today to get free access to our next live podcast: vosd.org/podpeople
Keep up with all the news with our daily newsletter: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Sunday night, County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher announced he was abandoning his campaign for state Senate and checking into a treatment program for trauma and alcohol abuse. This alone was big news for the region and we totally would have talked about it on the podcast. Local leaders and politicos quickly commended Fletcher's willingness to tackle mental health in an open way and offered lots of encouragement.
But that was just the beginning.
In this episode, we review in detail a tumultuous week as Fletcher eventually resigned as MTS board chair and County Supervisor following allegations of sexual harassment and assault. Plus: How wide is the blast radius of this scandal and where do we go from here?
Support this show and all our reporting at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Jason Hughes — former real estate advisor to the city of San Diego — pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor conflict-of-interest charge after agreeing to pay $9.4 million back to the city, which he received for his work on two city lease deals.
In this episode, hosts Scott Lewis, Andrew Keatts and Andrea Lopez-Villafaña tell the tale (for the last time?!) of the downtown high-rise that plagued the city for the better part of a decade.
After years of dogged reporting by Voice's Lisa Halverstadt, one of the most topsy-turvy, confusing and expensive recent city controversies appears complete. See the full investigation at vosd.org/101ash
Support this impactful investigation (and the VOSD Podcast!) at vosd.org/podpeople
Also this week: Balboa Park groups push back against a safe camping idea at Inspiration Point.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and Councilman Stephen Whitburn unveiled new tactics to curb homelessness: More safe camping options, more supportive services and new bans on vehicle habitation and camping on public property.
These big moves wrap into an ordinance Whitburn plans to bring to the Council, with Gloria's blessing, which puts the camping ban in effect when shelter beds are available.
In this episode, we review the new plans and how they'd work as San Diego Police face a major staffing shortage.
Plus: La Jolla wants to see other people. A startling cluster of chronic absenteeism in schools.
Keep up with Andy's stories at vosd.org/andy
Get the Schools Guide at vosd.org/schools
Support the podcast: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego's downtown civic core is back to it's pre-pandemic activity, at least that's according to a new study and sales tax revenue levels in the area.
But our hosts make the case that declaring that downtown has totally recuperated is, well, complicated. They give downtown their own grades in this episode.
Plus: We have updates on smart streetlights and why activists aren't happy. A billionaire is back in San Diego philanthropy circles but not everyone is excited about that. And the mayor has done a reorg to address homelessness better.
Support the show at vosd.org/podpeople
Keep up with everything VOSD with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
Read more about the monthly count of homelessness in downtown here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many San Diegans who are addicted to drugs are begging for help.
One intake specialist at a local detox program said that at least once a week, someone stops her on her way to work, begging for a detox bed so they can get clean. She often has to turn them away.
For the entire San Diego region, there are about 70 beds where Medi-Cal patients can get the help needed to detox. None are in the city of San Diego, where most fentanyl overdose deaths occurred in recent years.
This week, senior investigative reporter Lisa Halverstadt joins us to talk about her latest story on the detox bed deficit.
See Lisa's latest at vosd.org/lisa
Plus: 2023 Schools Guide is out! Get your free copy at vosd.org/schools
Support the show at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mira Mesa is one of the fastest-growing suburban job centers in San Diego. But climate advocates say climate goals for the neighborhood aren't up to snuff.
This week, we break down the city's Climate Action Plan and how to balance growth with lofty environmental goals.
Plus: A local teacher who was fired for touching a student is back in the classroom. A new candidate for the Board of Supervisors. Hepatitis A lurks in the region.
Submit an anonymous tip: vosd.org/contact
Keep up with everything VOSD with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
Support the show: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we're Andy-less. But our temp co-hosts — associate editor Jesse Marx and senior investigative reporter Lisa Halverstadt — have us covered with some hard-hitting cop talk.
Halverstadt had the story this week about slow San Diego Police response times. Robberies, active domestic violence incidents and assaults are among the calls that saw marked increases last year compared to 2018. But the police budget keeps going up. So what gives?
In this episode, we review the types of incidents in question, experiences of San Diego residents distressed by slow law enforcement and what police leadership say are hampering SDPD's speed.
Plus: New proposals to curb street camping and focus solutions at Balboa Park's Inspiration Point. Scott's bear bias.
Support the show at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, host Andrea Lopez-Villafaña brought in County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer to get a temperature check for the Board of Supervisors.
The foremost issue in the region is homelessness. (Duh.) And that's what most of this discussion was about — including related issues of behavioral health, CARE court, supporting seniors and housing development. That's on the second half of the episode.
On the first half: Another signature gathering effort flops. Andrea, Scott and Andy discuss where the new effort to fund parks and libraries stands. Plus, some big union news for the Deputy Sheriff's Association and High Tech High.
It's our birthday! Check out our updated What We Stand For document at vosd.org/values
Support us during our anniversary campaign at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Throughout the pandemic, the political divide has been bitter — and deadly.
This week, Voice reporters finished an unprecedented review of death certificates from the second year of the pandemic, after the vaccine was released. They determined the demographics of who died changed dramatically. Reporter Will Huntsberry explains the findings.
Plus: The most dramatic Audit Committee discussion you've ever heard. The short and adorable history of Elon Musk and SANDAG. And your new favorite newsletter.
Andrea's Cup of Chisme: vosd.org/chisme
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The San Diego City Council voted this week to declare housing a human right in the city. The resolution didn’t change any policies and isn’t legally binding. So, what gives?
This week, we discuss the declaration and grapple with implications it may (or may not) have on the city's immediate housing crisis.
Plus: The SANDAG walkout. And education reporter Jakob McWhinney lays out the state of transitional kindergarten — the new public school grade for 4-year-olds.
Follow all our investigations and insights with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s not something you expect to hear: A congressional representative from San Diego saying maybe the Navy has too many ships and maybe the defense department’s budget is too big. But that’s something Congresswoman Sara Jacobs will gladly discuss.
As she enters her second term, Jacobs has transitioned from rookie to leadership. The new Congress also brings her new constituents due to redistricting.
In this interview, Jacobs and host Scott Lewis discuss all that, plus the recent dramatic House Speaker vote, abortion access, data protection and homelessness.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’re cookin’ with gas! At least for now.
This week, we review how we got here — a time when pundits are debating what gas stoves mean to us as a society and whether the fumes they spout are harmful.
This offers another moment when San Diego's policy has caught up with reality. Because we’ve been planning to phase out gas-burning appliances for a while. In this episode, we discuss that long-standing plan and others like it that cause friction once residents realize what's coming for them.
Plus: The impossible path to subsidized housing. Stormwater infrastructure fails.
Follow all our work with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria had the opportunity this week to lay out his plan for the city — to explain where we stand and where we're going in his annual State of the City address.
Gloria discussed the importance of law enforcement, the deadly rise of fentanyl, our urgent need for affordable housing, homelessness(!), parks and infrastructure.
After attending the live event on Wednesday night, our hosts will now scrutinize each major topic.
Plus: Is the City Hall redevelopment our next "San Diego Special"? New compost bins roll out this week.
Keep up with all our stories with the Morning Report at vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Levi Giafaglione works for National Alliance on Mental Illness, serving unhoused San Diegans with tools and services they need to get care and housing.
He understands keenly how unsheltered folks feel and how hard it is to find a way out, because he used to be homeless, too.
In this episode, Giafaglione tells host Scott Lewis how he first became homeless while living in Los Angeles, how he navigated the constant change and challenges of living with unhoused communities — drugs, cold nights, complicated shelter systems, and lack of control.
Keep up with all our stories with the Morning Report at vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we preview the State of the City address. Slated for next Wednesday, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria will report to the entire city what his administration did last year and what's ahead.
In this episode, we look back at old State of the City addresses and make predictions for the next. An undeniable issue for discussion is homelessness.
Plus: How housing costs correlate with homelessness nationwide. Transitional kindergarten ushers in a new era of education. And what's an "atmospheric river" anyway?
Thank you to all who gave! You made our year-end fundraiser a success. If you haven't yet, you can join as a member support Voice: vosd.org/podpeople
Subscribe to our weekly podcast newsletter at vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Maggie Balint was a star pitcher for San Diego State University last year and led the school to the Women’s World Series. She was the Mountain West pitcher of the year.
Throughout her career, college athletics have changed a lot. Players can make money on their names and transfer to new schools much more easily than before. People can gamble on their play and the long-term consequences are unknown.
This week, Balint sits down with Voice's Scott Lewis to talk about what all those changes were like from the inside, how injury impacted her identity and relationship to the sport, and what it's like to be a standout young athlete.
Support the show and our year-end campaign at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chris Cate was the last Republican elected official in City Hall.
His successor, San Diego City Councilmember Kent Lee, serves District 6 and completes an all-Democrat Council (with Dem mayor Todd Gloria).
Throughout his tenure, Cate says local leaders grew more courageous — willing to flirt with taboo issues like the coastal height limit, trash pick-up charges and vacation rentals. But now, the homeless crisis looms over everything.
In this exit-interview episode, Cate and Scott Lewis talk about the "third rails" of local politics, the evolution of the City Council, the future of the Republican party and more.
Extra credit: Cate was featured in San Diego 101: A Short History of San Diego Politics. It's an 18-year recap of local public affairs and political drama. It's in this feed, dated Dec. 21, 2021. Here's a link to the episode.
If you value in-depth interviews like this — and the shows we put out every week — consider a tax-deductible donation at vosd.org/podpeople
We'll be back next week with another interview.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Voice journalists Jesse Marx and Will Huntsberry unleash an authoritative account of Covid: Year Two.
Two years ago, we had to sue the county to gain access to county death records that mentioned Covid as a cause. Marx and Huntsberry led a team to analyze those records to grasp the toll of Covid in various communities and demographics in the county.
Their recent slate of stories revealed how the vaccine changed things in the second year of the pandemic. About half as many San Diego residents died in the second year, compared to the first. Further, Marx and Huntsberry reveal how localized public health initiatives, anti-vaxx sentiment and misinformation molded San Diegans' behavior, and ultimately, their lives.
See the series at vosd.org/yeartwo
Also this week: Why San Diego still doesn't have a safe campground for unhoused Downtown residents.
Support local investigative journalism and this podcast at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this in-depth interview, CEO of the San Diego Association of Governments Hasan Ikhrata explained why he's standing by a plan to charge drivers for every mile they drive — even after his board abandoned it.
We also discuss whether it's time for him to leave his job (hint: maybe), the dysfunction of the SANDAG board and the future of the region.
Note: Our weekly news wrap-up episode will drop Friday afternoon, as usual.
Support interviews like this and everything we do at VOSD at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Colorado River is the lifeblood of the American West.
But its flow is inconstant and undependable — especially as climate change propels us into a dry abyss. Now the river's use needs to be rethought.
This week, we discuss environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer's story on the new way of (Colorado River) water — and a how one group agreed to give up some of its water rights: Imperial Valley farmers.
Plus: The San Diego District Attorney decided not to file criminal charges in the high-profile rape case involving SDSU football players. And there are more homeless people Downtown than ever recorded.
Join our year-end campaign and support the podcast at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of the most famous charter schools in the region, and perhaps the country, is High Tech High. Its project-based learning model and innovative approach to education stands out in San Diego — as does its inexperienced teaching staff.
Last year, HTH educators decided to unionize. And now they've hit a wall. Voice education reporter Jakob McWhinney joins the show to explain.
Plus: SANDAG's leader signals a leave. The problem of towing is ongoing. And we love our members.
Join our year-end fundraiser and write us a note at: vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we're joined by local author, educator and curator of the AwkwardSD blog, Ryan Bradford for our annual Friendsgiving episode.
There’s a lot to be thankful for — and skeptical of — this year. So our table of friends each brought one topic to dish on and sprinkled thanks throughout.
Talking points: The historic peaks and current pitfalls of Twitter. How Taylor Swift’s rabid fanbase may finally bring justice to the concert behemoth Ticketmaster. The current state of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and how it disrupts residents navigating life. The Great San Diego Bike Debate.
Grab a beer and hide from your relatives. It's Friendsgiving!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More election results are in.
It’s been a long wait for some races — as expected. And now, we have a bit more clarity on who won and how San Diego feels about key ballot initiatives. We discuss the historic moment as San Diegans finally shirked the People’s Ordinance. Other big updates include a local State Senate seat, the closely watched 49th Congressional District and the three-way race for National City.
Plus: City towing hurts San Diego’s most vulnerable residents. Child care gets more complicated.
Get the podcast newsletter (and more!) at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Happy election week! Let's take a breather.
This podcast was recorded on Thursday afternoon, a few hours before another dump of results from the registrar. But with a couple more days' worth of votes counted from our Election Night special, we have more clarity on what actually happened this election and what a midterm electorate wants for the region.
Some races have gotten tighter. Some are more decisive. One flipped! We have more insights and arguments from the 2022 election ready for you.
Keep up with all our coverage with the Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Late on Election Night, Scott, Andy and Andrea harnessed their last vestiges of energy and freshest election results to bring you San Diego Election Night takes.
As of this recording, our editors had a solid handle of a few key races they’d been watching this year: County Sheriff, Chula Vista mayor, National City mayor, San Diego City Council District 6. We review what we know, what's yet to be decided and what it all means for the region.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Late on Election Night, Scott, Andy and Andrea harnessed their last vestiges of energy and freshest election results to bring you San Diego Election Night takes.
As of this recording, our editors had a solid handle of a few key races they’d been watching this year: County Sheriff, Chula Vista mayor, National City mayor, San Diego City Council District 6. We review what we know, what's yet to be decided and what it all means for the region.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every two years, something amazing happens. Perhaps more important than newly elected leaders, passed initiatives, updated ordinances and a collective national exercise to uphold our republic ... is the Voice of San Diego Podcast Election Draft!
As ever, the week before an election is a chance for us to hop on the mic and lay down our picks. Each host had two draft picks: These are local contests for which we are most excited to see results. In this episode, we pick the contests, explain our reasoning and discuss what the results could mean for San Diego politics.
This is our last show before our election special, which will drop the morning after Election Day. Stay subscribed to catch our vibe.
Plus: Political mailers. The Padres Goose. Football coaches.
Get our texts directly to your mobile telephone for election updates. Check that out here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every two years, something amazing happens. Perhaps more important than newly elected leaders, passed initiatives, updated ordinances and a collective national exercise to uphold our republic ... is the Voice of San Diego Podcast Election Draft!
As ever, the week before an election is a chance for us to hop on the mic and lay down our picks. Each host had two draft picks: These are local contests for which we are most excited to see results. In this episode, we pick the contests, explain our reasoning and discuss what the results could mean for San Diego politics.
This is our last show before our election special, which will drop the morning after Election Day. Stay subscribed to catch our vibe.
Plus: Political mailers. The Padres Goose. Football coaches.
Get our texts directly to your mobile telephone for election updates. Check that out here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There’s a moment when high-minded, well intentioned policy meets the inertia of the real world: a collision of two realities.
These are the moments “real people” (i.e., not policy wonks or politicos) have a chance to see what’s coming their way and react. Often, residents don’t know about the next big thing until change is imminent — years after some state law or band of policy professionals and advocates concluded the best ways to advance the region.
And as discussed in this week’s podcast, these are often the moments that kill or cripple policies — the moments when leaders falter. In this episode, we examine this idea.
Plus: New homelessness numbers.
Subscribe to our weekly podcast newsletter at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There’s a moment when high-minded, well intentioned policy meets the inertia of the real world: a collision of two realities.
These are the moments “real people” (i.e., not policy wonks or politicos) have a chance to see what’s coming their way and react. Often, residents don’t know about the next big thing until change is imminent — years after some state law or band of policy professionals and advocates concluded the best ways to advance the region.
And as discussed in this week’s podcast, these are often the moments that kill or cripple policies — the moments when leaders falter. In this episode, we examine this idea.
Plus: New homelessness numbers.
Subscribe to our weekly podcast newsletter at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grab that ballot off your kitchen counter, it’s time to fill in some bubbles.
This week, we review a full San Diegan ballot — from Senate to school board — to discuss what’s what and decipher some of the more confusing items you’ll come across.
This episode runs from big to small, following the order of your ballot pretty closely. As you hit play, we'll start at the top with U.S. Senator, move down to county-wide races, city races, then state props and local measures.
Additional talking points: Tax the rich. Sports betting. Softball. People's Ordinance.
Alright nerds, let's get to work.
Get the newsletter for this show at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grab that ballot off your kitchen counter, it’s time to fill in some bubbles.
This week, we review a full San Diegan ballot — from Senate to school board — to discuss what’s what and decipher some of the more confusing items you’ll come across.
This episode runs from big to small, following the order of your ballot pretty closely. As you hit play, we'll start at the top with U.S. Senator, move down to county-wide races, city races, then state props and local measures.
Additional talking points: Tax the rich. Sports betting. Softball. People's Ordinance.
Alright nerds, let's get to work.
Get the newsletter for this show at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we dig through the Politifest 2022 content mines to bring you the spiciest takes from the region’s coolest annual politics summit.
The conceit of Politifest was that purposeful political discussions need to be out in the open, in front of voters and residents. Too often, candidates for office — or opposing sides of a major local issues — settle their differences in private. We’re trying to change that. Let's play the hits!
See everything you may have missed at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we dig through the Politifest 2022 content mines to bring you the spiciest takes from the region’s coolest annual politics summit.
The conceit of Politifest was that purposeful political discussions need to be out in the open, in front of voters and residents. Too often, candidates for office — or opposing sides of a major local issues — settle their differences in private. We’re trying to change that. Let's play the hits!
See everything you may have missed at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Homelessness is our region’s foremost humanitarian crisis — and one of the most divisive political issues.
Voice's Lisa Halverstadt got into it with San Diego’s two most powerful politicians, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and Chair of the County Board of Supervisors Nathan Fletcher.
Talking points: Bathrooms. Safe lots. Homelessness prevention and tenant protections. The service provider shortage. Housing policy. Bill Walton.
See more at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Homelessness is our region’s foremost humanitarian crisis — and one of the most divisive political issues.
Voice's Lisa Halverstadt got into it with San Diego’s two most powerful politicians, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and Chair of the County Board of Supervisors Nathan Fletcher.
Talking points: Bathrooms. Safe lots. Homelessness prevention and tenant protections. The service provider shortage. Housing policy. Bill Walton.
See more at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The candidates for Chula Vista mayor joined us to put a stamp on our inaugural Politifest South. This is the second of a two-part live podcast for Politifest 2022, hosted at the Emo Brown Foundation in Chula Vista.
Panelists:
Ammar Campa-Najjar
Chula Vista City Counclimember John McCann
Talking points: Police and firefighters. Homelessness. Sales taxes and city revenue. Chula Vista roots and residence. SANDAG.
See everything Politifest at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The candidates for Chula Vista mayor joined us to put a stamp on our inaugural Politifest South. This is the second of a two-part live podcast for Politifest 2022, hosted at the Emo Brown Foundation in Chula Vista.
Panelists:
Ammar Campa-Najjar
Chula Vista City Counclimember John McCann
Talking points: Police and firefighters. Homelessness. Sales taxes and city revenue. Chula Vista roots and residence. SANDAG.
See everything Politifest at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The candidates for National City mayor joined us for our inaugural Politifest South — a two-part kickoff event for Politifest 2022 hosted at the Emo Brown Foundation in Chula Vista.
Panelists:
Mayor Alejandra Sotelo-Solis
City Councilmember Jose Rodriguez
City Councilmember Ron Morrison
Talking points: Unions and labor. The city manager. Low riders. Cleanliness.
See everything Politifest at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The candidates for National City mayor joined us for our inaugural Politifest South — a two-part kickoff event for Politifest 2022 hosted at the Emo Brown Foundation in Chula Vista.
Panelists:
Mayor Alejandra Sotelo-Solis
City Councilmember Jose Rodriguez
City Councilmember Ron Morrison
Talking points: Unions and labor. The city manager. Low riders. Cleanliness.
See everything Politifest at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ahead of the November election, San Diego City Council candidates are taking stands on an upcoming ballot measure that would allow the city to study and eventually implement a special fee for trash collection.
This week, we discuss where candidates stand, how it could be a new, divisive feature of local politics and probe some of the touchy terms that get thrown around on this issue. (It's not a fee!)
Related: The city needs to get that food waste recycling program rolling by January.
Plus: The blow-back from Bill Walton's homelessness emails to Mayor Todd Gloria.
See you soon! Get your tickets to Politifest 2022 at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego City Council President Sean Elo-Rivera is dealing with a lot of big issues. But of course the biggest crisis he — and every leader in the region — is dealing with is homelessness.
Elo-Rivera talked to host Scott Lewis about the scope of the problem as he sees it today, how senior citizens are disproportionately affected and how to stop the increase in homelessness. Let's get into it!
Note: Our weekly news analysis episode will drop Friday afternoon as usual.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It was a fiery week in the San Diego City Council chambers.
City Attorney Mara Elliott accused Council President Sean Elo-Rivera of trying to silence her. In doing so, she indirectly accused him of sexism, arguing her predecessors — all men — were held to different expectations than her by the Council.
City Councilmember Raul Campillo took a fierce tone with the development team chosen to take over the Sports Arena redevelopment project. Campillo was the only vote against the project. He pressed the developers on their experience with projects this size, allegations of wage theft, tax subsidies and more.
This week, we recap the drama and replay some of the highlights from this week in city politics.
Plus: NBA legend Bill Walton confronts the mayor on homelessness. And Elo-Rivera wants to talk about it.
Politifest 2022 is nigh! Tickets here: https://cvent.me/GQ7dnW
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week, an unprecedented heatwave preyed on fans and players during San Diego State University’s first game of the season, christening its stadium in sweat.
Fans said there was nowhere to escape the sun. Reports showed attendees ditching their hard-won seats for shelter and succumbing to heat-related illness.
This comes on the heels of SDSU’s nationwide coverage for its response to an alleged gang rape by its football players last Halloween.
This week, we discuss SDSU’s recent slate of news-making stories, including its plan to open a satellite location in Chula Vista.
Also: School board election breakdown. The latest on the Sports Arena redevelopment. Politifest preview.
Get your tickets to Politifest 2022 at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we discuss whatever happened to... that SANDAG driving fee, San Diego’s food waste recycling program and the downtown homeless services hub.
We’ve got a theme going on this week across Voice content — a look back on stories that were once front page news but have since shirked the public eye. To cap off our “Whatever Happened To...” week, we’re revisiting these three San Diego storylines.
Plus: Scott is Tiktok famous. And reasons to support your favorite local public affairs pod.
vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Energy from San Diego’s brand new power companies is slightly more expensive than their competitor — the former local power monopoly, SDG&E.
The whole conceit of these new power companies was to boost competition and thereby lower prices. So, mission accomplished? Not to some.
Voice environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer has been following the twisted tale of San Diego energy as fledgling power players rise in the region. Now with more options available, customers have to (and can!) make a choice. Let's get into it.
Statewide talking points: That big electric car news. Gettin' around with the Secretary of Transportation. Online gambling propositions.
Support the show during our campaign at vosd.org/podpeople
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we're looking back. Way back.
This interview featuring host Scott Lewis reviews about 18 years' worth of San Diego political history: "Cheetah gate." The pension scandal. Bob Filner. The rise of Democrats.
Lewis and former VOSD editor Maya Srikrishnan break down some of the biggest moments in San Diego's recent history that led us to the politics and the players we have today.
Support VOSD and explanatory journalism at vosd.org/podpeople
See more content like this in our San Diego 101 podcast: sd101.org
Get even more local history with the SD101 history episode: vosd.org/history101
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2017, the state passed Senate Bill 2 — a bill made to alleviate the cost of shelter in California by providing an ongoing source of funds to build affordable housing we so desperately need. Since then, the state has collected more than $1.6 billion from fees on real estate transactions. Lookin’ pretty good, right?
Here's the catch: In the five years since SB 2 passed, the state has spent a fraction of the earnings.
This week, we discuss the bill, its promise and praise by San Diego state reps, and the impact seen so far.
Plus: What happened to the (California) theater? Pickeball wars. Politifest preview.
Peep our newsletters at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city of San Diego has decided the Sports Arena be demolished and a new arena should arise.
And the three bidders who want to take over the redevelopment of that spot want to build a new one. The lead bidder, Midway Rising, wants to make a big new arena — but not big enough for the NHL or NBA. Such arenas require about 18,000 seats minimum.
And an important caveat with this project is the city's decision not to subsidize the project.
As host Scott Lewis found in his new story, bidders decided the way to pay for the crazy expense of such a project is not sports. It's concerts.
Enter: The San Diego Rock arena?!
This week, we discuss the current state of that major redevelopment project. Plus: OMG those Padres, the “how about nah” campaign and more dirty water politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The San Diego City Council this week decided — with the mayor's urging and the city attorney's opposition — to settle its lawsuit against Cisterra and CGA Capital.
This $132-million-dollar decision paves the way for the city to buy its two most problematic buildings that were caught up in the suit and kick off what could be its most ambitious development project ever.
This week, we discuss what went down in the council meeting ahead of the decision and all of the lofty ideas that are getting packed into this project.
Plus: New COVID notes. South Bay politics. Andrea's fear of flying.
Get more show at vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego is the first in the nation to deploy a new technology to test the safety of our ocean water. And Imperial Beach and Coronado are grappling with the results.
The tests use a new method to count the amount of bacteria found in the gut of warm-blooded mammals, including humans (e.g., feces).
The word poop is funny, obviously, but this is deadly serious for local beach cities — which may not only face economic hardship from having their beaches closed, but the test results suggest beachgoers could get seriously sick. This week, we discuss the rollout of these new tests and a lot of confusion that followed.
Plus: A viral interview with a local school leader. A new documentary about Barrio Logan's pollution struggles.
Get the newsletter for this show at vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, NBC San Diego’s Alexis Rivas shares her story on a local woman's murder.
The real story was the phone calls from across the street
As Rivas reported, the victim’s neighbors called 911 for nearly two hours — begging for help and relaying what they saw. Rivas discusses the details of that June night, the San Diego Police Department's response to the scrutiny, and what seems a systemic lack of police capacity and slow response times to critical calls.
Plus: New trends in old military suicide data, San Diego's other housing failure, Kevin Faulconer's next election plan.
See the full NBC story at NBC7.com/policescrutiny
Subscribe to the newsletter for this show at vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The doldrums of summer are upon us.
To combat the summertime blues, we’re hitting you with summertime news! This week, our hosts share a few stories they're watching in the summer months.
Talking points: how to colonize Mars, the great resignation of the San Diego Police Department, who's going to fill those new downtown office buildings.
Get the newsletter for this show at vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Unified leaders announced they would offer $10,000 dollar signing bonuses for new special education teachers and nurses.
This is a new effort by the district to combat a massive labor shortage happening right now. It may seem totally logical: The district has a lot of COVID relief money and needs more staff. But the move also signals a significant shift in policy from unions and union-backed leaders. Pay incentives of any kind, for years, have been totally taboo.
This week, we discuss teacher pay and how it could impact schools.
Plus: Andy's got the emails that led up to a big housing development decision. And the 101 Ash St. settlement that never was.
See all our school stories at vosd.org/education
Get the newsletter for this podcast at vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Four months ago, Voice of San Diego reporter Lisa Halverstadt got an email.
A local woman, Natalie Raschke, asked Halverstadt to tell her family's story. “My kids matter, they have faces, they deserve to be heard and seen. I’m hoping you can help me achieve that,” she wrote.
This week, we share that story.
Plus: San Diego's next strategy for 101 Ash St. New street vendor rules. And OMG the Assembly Select Committee on Gasoline Supply and Pricing is here.
Keep up with all of Lisa's stories at vosd.org/lisa
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Over the next eight years, the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) needed to pass three different tax increases. These increases would fund the grandest of their plans to improve transportation for the whole region and update the ways we get around, large and small.
But this week, the first of those three initiatives failed. And it failed fast. We review what happened and why.
Plus: Graduations. Big hopes for big buildings on the coast. And the latest election results.
Join our fundraising campaign and support the show: vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're coming at you live from Novo Brazil Brewing in Chula Vista with special guests and an awesome audience.
Talking points: primary election results, "South County" vs. "South Bay," Chula Vista politics, special interests, miniature schnauzers.
Guests:
Chula Vista City Councilmember Andrea Cardenas Steve Garcia, host of the Emo Brown podcast
Support the show and our summer fundraising campaign: vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Primary is nigh!
Though it’s not the blockbuster 2020 election that melted our faces and dominated every inch of social media, our next major democratic exercise is nearly here. (Get those ballots in by June 7 with the help of our Election Guide: vosd.org/ballot.)
This week, we check in on the main races we've been watching in the region and the stories behind them.
County Sheriff, Chula Vista Mayor, Assembly District 80 and San Diego City Council District 2 are the four horsemen of this non-apocalypse. But rest assured, there's plenty of intrigue to unfurl. Let's get to it.
Check out all our election coverage at vosd.org/2022
Follow our homelessness reporting at vosd.org/homeless
See you at the live show! Tickets at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The redevelopment project of 50-ish acres of land in the Midway area — which comprises Sports Arena, derelict streets and serves as a major junction in San Diego — is only getting more complex.
Recently dubbed ‘the new San Diego Special’ by podcast host Scott Lewis, the San Diego City Council this week made a move to get the Midway redevelopment rolling again.
This week, we review that meeting. Plus: New COVID quandaries at San Diego Unified schools.
Join us on June 9 for our live podcast: vosd.org/events
See Andrea's full story about Luis Alberto Antonio Armenta: vosd.org/luis
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’re coming at you with two interviews this week.
First up: Voice's Jakob McWhinney published an authoritative piece on Awaken Church. On the show, McWhinney reviewed some of the historical highlights of the Evangelical Christian movement and its political proclivities. Throughout the pandemic, this church has become highly activated as an anti-vaccine, anti-lockdown, right-wing political engine.
And second: The head of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Tamera Kohler, called us up to unpack the latest homelessness point-in-time count. We discussed the numbers, the caveats, and a few different ways we can understand the crisis right now.
Join us for the next Live Podcast at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
June Primary ballots went out this week. And you know what that means: It’s mailer season!
This week, we talk about some of the mailers hitting voters for the Chula Vista mayoral race and what the voters really want.
Plus: The race for County Sheriff and confusion at the San Diego Housing Commission.
See all our election coverage at vosd.org/2022
Get tickets for our live podcast at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we break down an effort by SANDAG to get a transit tax on the November 2022 ballot and a few other measures that are starting to take shape.
Plus: A 101 Ash St. thing we can't let go. And new numbers — and a new idea — on homelessness.
Get the newsletter for this podcast at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we're bringing you an episode of the Emo Brown podcast — a Chula Vista-based show recorded at 3 Punk Ales brewery, hosted by Steve Garcia.
Garcia recently called up VOSD host and CEO Scott Lewis to join the show. We liked it so much we wanted to share it with you. Lewis and Garcia talked about Lewis' personal history, journalism, VOSD's purpose in San Diego and some of the biggest issues facing the region, such as education inequality, housing and homelessness. Plus, how to keep up with — and support — local news.
Note: This podcast contains expletives.
Check out The Emo Brown Podcast wherever you like to listen. emobrown.com
Support Voice of San Diego and our mission at vosd.org/donate
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scott Lewis has called it: The Sports Arena and its surrounding land is officially a San Diego Special. (That is an intractable, San Diego-specific problem brought on by maladministration and/or crummy leadership.)
This week, we discussed the state of the current bidding process to remake the area and prioritize a new arena — while the housing crisis looms over us all.
Plus: Palm trees are a menace. The "political genius" of 101 Ash St. Charity leaders flip a house.
Join us on May 4 for our next in-person event. See details at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For weeks now, we’ve been waiting to see if the San Diego County fair will actually happen.
Headlines and rumors suggested San Diego's most prized carnival spectacle was in jeopardy because of a lawsuit that seized the state district that oversees the fair.
Voice North County reporter Tigist Layne has been following the fair-y tale and joins us week to explain how this unique slice of San Diego land is governed, the details of the suit and where the Fairgrounds and its CEO stand now.
Plus: The Chula Vista mayor's race. And the San Diego City Council decides on potential ballot measures.
RSVP to our next live event at vosd.org/events
Keep up with our coverages at vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nowadays, more resources are being thrown at the homelessness crisis than ever and there are still more unhoused San Diegans than ever — many of whom use camping-style tents as a lifeline, refusing shelter beds. So, what now?
This week, we discuss how personal tents changed the homelessness crisis and what it means for leaders fighting for solutions to our region's biggest problem.
Plus: Big transit hub news. Midway and Sports Arena updates. And did you hear Gold Coast Drive?!
Check out Scott's story on tents and homelessness at vosd.org/tents
Subscribe to our newsletters at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When one discusses the future of San Diego, there’s typically a shared, unspoken assumption: We’ll keep growing.
Everything we need to power a prospering region hinges on that assumption, too. Infrastructure, housing, the airport, drive-thru Starbucks.
But we’re not growing. We're shrinking (dying if you wanna get dramatic about it). This week, we discuss the data that tells the story of our population change — and the questions we must answer about the troubling future of our region.
Plus: The Assembly District 80 special election. That big truck problem in Barrio Logan. Andy's mustache.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The City of Oceanside has North County's second largest homeless population (after Escondido). And as of this week, it's gearing up for its first homeless shelter.
This week on the pod, Andy and Andrea are joined by Voice's North County reporter, Tigist Layne, to discuss the news from Oceanside and the latest housing issue in Encinitas.
Plus: Highlights from this week's State of the County address.
Join the campaign! vosd.org/donate
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Andy's got the story of David Alvarez and his potential violation of city ethics law.
The former San Diego city councilman, and now candidate for the state Assembly, worked for SDG&E before the mandated “cool off” period was over. Whether he was lobbying is the big question.
This has led to a fiery campaign for Assembly District 80.
Alvarez and the other Democrat seeking the seat, Georgette Gómez, have been dragged in political ads for their violations of public trust. We're going to recap some political history and talk about what it all means for the special election.
Plus: Gov. Gavin Newsom's plan to help with gas prices. And local governments are so over COVID.
Support this show and our reporting at vosd.org/donate
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We planned this for months but it couldn’t have been more timely.
Voice of San Diego reporters have been digging into the biggest drivers of San Diego’s high costs: housing, transportation, water, energy and more. This week on the podcast, hosts Scott Lewis and Andrew Keatts discuss the biggest findings from our new reporting series, "San Diego's Cost-of-Living Crisis."
Check it out at vosd.org/cost
Support this type of work at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Almost a year ago, Luis Alberto Antonio Armenta disappeared.
His family was worried, of course. And they were confused why Antonio Armenta didn't respond to calls or texts. The next day, he was found in his car, in the passenger seat, head on the floorboard, missing some personal items. He was dead.
And the family was left with a lot of questions about the odd circumstances of this case. This week, editor Andrea Lopez-Villafaña tells the story of this mysterious death and what questions remain unanswered.
Plus: Parents at a local preschool are furious that state child care investigators questioned their children without supervision. That story blew up this week. See it here: vosd.org/maskraid
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
County leaders are pushing San Diego to eliminate carbon emissions in less than two decades. But a new study shows the region isn’t close to that — even if all the cities in the region do everything on their climate to-do list perfectly.
This week, we break down what "net zero" really means and what the region is facing as politicians trumpet climate "successes" that are effectively a wishlist for some other elected official to deal with later.
Plus: A note from Russia. New rules for street vendors. The latest numbers and proposals on homelessness.
Follow all our stories with The Morning Report at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Housing nerds unite!
This week, our resident housing nerd Andrew Keatts interviews New York Times economics reporter Conor Dougherty, who covers housing and wages in California.
Talking points: YIMBYS vs. NIMBYS. Housing and zoning legislation. Accessory dwelling units. Dougherty's book, "Golden Gates: Fighting for Housing in America," and coverage of Clairemont, "Where The Suburbs End."
Support the podcast: vosd.org/give
Follow all our work: vosd.org/newsletter
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 9
When parents get involved at school, that generally means their kids will do better.
But getting involved isn’t easy — at least not for all parents. School districts can be baffling bureaucracies, filled with tons of committees and confusing acronyms that all impact the quality of a kid’s education.
In this final episode of the season, we break down how schools work — and how parents have made it work for them. (Plus, hosts Maya and Adriana call up their own parents.)
Resources for parents of kids with disabilities:
iepday.org
efrconline.org
Learn more at vosd.org/101podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego's cost of living is officially bananas.
Multiple reports published this week show San Diego's sunshine and dank waves are not enough to keep up with soaring housing and energy prices.
We explain the findings of these reports and what's going on in the housing market as one analysis looked at the number of "investors" who own homes in the area.
Plus: Former San Diego City Councilmember Barbra Bry is caught up in a web as she seeks another office this election.
Keep up with all our stories: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Remember a few weeks back? Holidays were happening, Omicron was everywhere and at-home tests seemingly vanished. It sucked.
At that time, free COVID-19 testing sites were popping up at trolley stations. They were a relief to many who needed quick, accessible results so they could live their life. But some results didn't come for weeks — or ever.
This week on the pod, we're going to break down that story, the companies behind it, and how it all went wrong.
Plus: The race for sheriff. Chula Vista mayoral campaigns. And an important update on housing law.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Four Mexican journalists have been murdered in less than a month. It's one of the most dangerous countries to be a journalist.
Reporter Sandra Dibble has been covering Tijuana — the country's northernmost city — for more than two decades. She joins us to talk about what's going on in the country and how Mexico's programs made to protect the press are failing.
Plus: The latest on homelessness and some political intrigue in affordable housing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 8
Homelessness, and what causes it, is complex. Our own assumptions about people who experience homelessness can often keep us from fully understanding the big, complicated issue that it is.
In this episode, we’re going to hear from experts and people who have experienced homelessness to explain what’s right — and what’s wrong — about our most common assumptions.
Learn more at sd101.org
Support San Diego 101 at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A feud between San Diego State University and labor unions has officially boiled over in to the public scene.
This week, we review the key players and the stakes, what's been said and what it all means for the mega redevelopment of Mission Valley.
Plus: Former San Diego City Attorney Mike Aguirre is suing the NFL. What?!
Also: Scott "discovers" a band.
Text with us: vosd.org/text
Peruse our newsletters: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego can breathe easier.
Because there's less garbage wafting in our face.
The trash strike that seized the city of Chula Vista and parts of San Diego is over. But how did it all go down? VOSD editor Jesse Marx joins us this week to talk about the negotiations, the workers demands and how Republic Services broke the strike.
Plus: Big news from Sheriff Bill Gore and updates on conservatorship for homeless residents.
See Jesse's story and his new newsletter at vosd.org/finecity
Text with us: vosd.org/text
Support the show: vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It feels like we’re in the middle of a very awkward transition between treating COVID-19 as a disease we’re collectively trying to contain and one that is part of the spectrum of respiratory diseases humans face without much fear every year. If you get the virus now, you have to manage rules for going back to school and work that are related to collective action to stem the pandemic and yet the virus is being allowed to spread uncontained as though we were already moving on.
This week on the podcast, I got to come back as co-host after my own family’s COVID-19 disruption (we’re all good but the kids can’t go to school for a while). Voice of San Diego Managing Editor Andrea Lopez-Villafaña and I discussed the state of the virus in this strange moment.
We also broke down some very interesting comments about homelessness from Mayor Todd Gloria in his State of the City speech this week. The mayor hopes to be able to authorize a lot more people a lot faster to take control of the lives of individuals experiencing mental illness in conservatorships.
We also discussed a curious story out of Chula Vista where the mayor called a City Councilmember a “gringo” and it led to a $16,000 discrimination investigation. That story was by our intern Julia Woock and you can read it here.
Finally, I got to dive in more deeply to my latest obsession: Why I may never look at the Sports Arena the same way again. It’s the fascinating history of San Diego’s Frontier neighborhood – a diverse community with schools, affordable housing, rec centers and churches. You might never have heard about it and that’s because the city deliberately eradicated it. Here’s the story about where it came from and why it disappeared.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 7
The 2020 Census data shows that San Diego is more diverse than ever, with especially large growth in its Asian and Latino populations.
But there are also big, thriving communities that we have very little information about. They're effectively hidden by the Census, a standard bearer of data for the country. So, who are these hidden communities? And how can they be revealed?
Learn more at sd101.org
Support San Diego 101 at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the new year dawns on us, omicron is letting loose.
The latest, super contagious coronavirus variant was fueled from the holidays and is now hampering daily life — and San Diego is no exception.
Local public services and government agencies are getting hit hard. Universities are pushing classes back online. Hospitals and firehouses are seeing unprecedented absences due to staff catching "the 'vid." This week, we review the state of the region and how omicron is affecting the region's most vulnerable population: homeless residents.
Plus, big news as Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez steps down. So, who will step up?
Scott's piece on Sports Arena/Midway Area's history: vosd.org/frontier
Support this podcast in the new year: vosd.org/podcast2021
Keep up with all we're doing in 2022 with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Before we poke our heads in to 2022, let's look back — about 18 years.
This week, we're dropping a special interview between Scott Lewis and host of the San Diego 101 podcast, Maya Srikrishnan.
Scott was featured on the latest SD101 episode, "A Short History of San Diego Politics," along with Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher and San Diego City Councilman Chris Cate.
Lewis has been covering San Diego politics since 2004 — when a whole bunch of political drama boiled over. In this interview, he recounts the so-called "Cheetah-gate" scandal that took down up-and-coming San Diego City Councilmembers, the write-in mayoral campaign of Donna Frye, the Bob Filner scandal and a lot more that didn't make it into the 101 episode.
See the full SD101 episode at vosd.org/101podcast
Join our year-end fundraising campaign at vosd.org/podcast2021
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New San Diego City Council president Sean Elo-Rivera joined us this week to talk about why he sought the job, his biggest priorities for the city and how he wants to tackle our biggest issues — like homelessness, government transparency and suffering infrastructure.
Join our year-end campaign at vosd.org/podcast2021
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 6
We're going to go back about 18 years — roughly when the region's newest voters were being born. In this episode of SD101, we'll guide you through the scandals that shaped San Diego, explain how the region's leadership shifted from predominantly Republican to Democrat and share tales of those who have risen to power and shaped the region.
This episode features VOSD's Scott Lewis, Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher and San Diego City Councilman Chris Cate.
Learn more at sd101.org
Support the project at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shane Crotty, a lead researcher at the La Jolla Institute of Immunology, has helped us out here on the VOSD Podcast throughout the pandemic.
He laid out the science of COVID vaccines when they were new. He explained the Delta variant as it swept the country. And this week, he’s back in an interview with Scott Lewis to talk about Omicron — the latest variant that demonstrates, as Crotty put it, “this virus is more clever than most anyone expected.”
The interview starts around minute 33 of the podcast.
Also: The hunt for San Diego Unified's next superintendent. And a court ruling puts the Midway area's future in jeopardy.
Support VOSD — and this podcast — today! Give at vosd.org/podcast2021
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Buckle up and grab a snack. We're hitting the road.
This week, hosts Scott Lewis, Andrew Keatts and Andrea Lopez-Villafaña are taking you on a drive through the week's local news.
We start at the bathroom shortage the city says it'll fix by putting one within five minutes of anyone downtown. Then, we're on the roads of SANDAG and some major hiccups the transportation agency is having to finalize its plan by year's end. And finally, we arrive at the the San Diego City Council chambers, where this week, Councilmember Jen Campbell was replaced as president by Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You’ve probably noticed that San Diego is a really expensive place to live. The city has a large homeless population, the cost of rent eats away our paychecks, and for most people, buying a home is out of reach.
For years, we’ve been hearing about the housing crisis in San Diego and throughout the state of California. But how has it gotten so bad?
In the latest episode of our San Diego 101 series, we're going to explain how we got here — and how a long legacy of racist housing policies made the crisis worse for communities of color. Plus, we're going to build some affordable housing right here in the podcast.
Learn more at sd101.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last year, Voice of San Diego sued the County of San Diego to get death records for local residents who died directly or indirectly from COVID-19.
A few months ago, we won.
Since then, a team of reporters has blazed through thousands of these records to assemble the data and reveal trends — to show the true impact of COVID, how our region works for different populations and who was most affected by the pandemic. Reporter Will Huntsberry joins the show this week to share the insights.
Also: Scott on football drama and Andrea on sidewalk vendors.
Join us! Our year-end fundraising campaign is on now. If you support the show now, your gift will be matched. Head to: vosd.org/podcast2021
We appreciate all our listeners and supporters.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on a special Friendsgiving edition of the show, hosts Scott Lewis, Andrew Keatts and Andrea Lopez-Villafaña are joined by local journalists Alain Stephens and Cristina Kim to talk about happy holiday things like bathrooms, racist deeds and guns. Happy Thanksgiving!
Follow Cristina @Cristinakim830
Follow Alain @AlainStephens
Support the show at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we jump into the fray of redistricting and discuss how new changes in the city’s population affect how people are represented in politics. Plus: Palm trees, a park tax and a new trolley line.
Support this podcast by sharing it with a friend! Send them to vosd.org/pod
Or tag us on social media @voiceofsandiego
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 4
Local government can get complicated. But there's one major distinction you need to understand in order to follow it all: the difference between the city government and the county government.
In this episode, we spoke with a few government experts to help us understand what the city does, what the county does, who the representatives are for each — and what you need to know to make it work for you. Let's roll some School House Rock music!
Learn more at vosd.org/sd101
Support the SD101 project at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria released a draft of the city’s updated Climate Action Plan — with an ambitious new target of net zero emissions by 2035.
This week, we look back at the previous Climate Action Plan, which didn’t do all it set out to do. And now, even if the city does everything outlined in its new, super ambitious plan, it still falls short of its own goal.
Plus: Public comments and their place in democracy. And the Great Resignation hits San Diego schools and parks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego’s Air Pollution Control District is forcing industries to reduce cancer risk in San Diego.
There was a major change this week in how many canceer-causing toxins local industries were allowed to spew in the air. We sat down with environment reporter MacKenzie Elmer to talk about what goes into these standards, what local industries had to do to alert residents of the risks and what changes are coming.
And a San Diego-based nonprofit Saved in America says they save people from human trafficking. But do they?
Follow all our big stories and investigations with our newsletters: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 3
Throughout San Diego – and across the country – there are lots of meetings happening, in which communities are talking about how they can maximize the power of their vote by creating new maps.
This is because every 10 years all sorts of political entities from cities to school districts to state legislatures go through a process called redistricting.
In this episode of San Diego 101, we're going to explain how this process works, who's drawing the maps, and how normal people get sucked into the process to harness political power.
Learn more at vosd.org/sd101
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Rep. Scott Peters is in front of an enormous choice. It's one that could sway one of the most consequential legislative dramas in decades that includes tax credits, child care and education, climate change and — importantly — pharmaceuticals.
This week on the show, we wonder: What is the point of Peters? This choice could determine that.
Plus: St. Louis got a billion dollars when it lost its football team. What did San Diego get?! And we look ahead to 2022 ballot measures starting to take shape.
Check out all our newsletters at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This year, we dedicated our annual local news summit to: law and justice. Politifest 2021 happened this week and it was full of great, though sometimes difficult, conversations about surveillance, criminal sentencing, the trauma of incarceration and more.
This week, we're giving you the short and sweet summaries of a few panels. And we'll discuss some of the most crucial moments that spotlight how directly law enforcement can shape society.
Plus: A local labor leader got money he wasn't supposed to and the CDC and New York Times are wrong about San Diego's vaccination rates.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 2 of VOSD's new series
Warning: This episode mentions suicide and contains graphic descriptions of killings by police officers.
In light of several highly-publicized killings by police officers in recent years, more and more people have started demanding change to how law enforcement do their job and how they interact with society. Cops have the ability and authority to take life. So, who keeps them accountable? We'll explain that and what you need to know now about the state of law enforcement and police reform.
Learn more at sd101.org
Support SD101 at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Four years ago, former mayor Kevin Faulconer signed a lease for the city to take over a warehouse in Kearny Mesa where crews could repair fire trucks. No fire trucks have been repaired there ever.
And now, the city wants to spend $15 million to rebuild the facility it may never own. This week, we discuss all we know that's gone wrong so far.
Plus: Redistricting drama is heating up. One commissioner resigned abruptly this week as the once-a-decade process to draw political maps is upon us.
Register for Politifest at vosd.org/politifest
Hang out with your new favorite podcast at vosd.org/101podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There was a major development this week in one of the most dramatic stories VOSD has followed the last couple years. Say it with me: 101 Ash St.
On Tuesday, VOSD’s Lisa Halverstadt broke the news that district attorney investigators were raiding the offices of Hughes Marino, Cisterra Development and the home of Jason Hughes.
Halverstadt joins the podcast to recap all the steps that led us to this week — and where things may go next.
Plus: San Diego City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera’s quest to kill the People’s Ordinance.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're excited to share our newest show we think you'll really like: San Diego 101.
We adapted our popular video series by the same name for podcast feeds. These stories are all new and each episode is made to teach something new about how the San Diego region works.
Episode 1. Your Role In Local Government
Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts: vosd.org/101podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, VOSD's Adriana Heldiz saw a large-scale operation by the city of San Diego to clean a homeless camp that had been growing for months in the Midway District; it recently grew so large it was spilling into the street, according to the city.
Staff loaded tents and tons of belongings into a trash truck to try and sort out the area. Officers offered shelter to the people living there and cited those who rejected the offers.
It put a spotlight on a lot of the issues at play for one of the region's biggest problems: homelessness. This week, we talk with Heldiz and VOSD's Lisa Halverstadt about what's going on with homelessness right now.
Plus: The video that got Mayor Todd Gloria in trouble this week.
Subscribe to our new San Diego 101 podcast! The trailer is out now. Subscribe to "San Diego 101" wherever you listen. And tell your friends. vosd.org/101podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's expensive to live in San Diego. You know this already. But it's about to get worse.
As housing prices balloon, another basic need is getting costly: water. This week, we reported that the San Diego County Water Authority predicts the cost of water could swell up to 10 percent starting in 2023.
Scott and Andy review everything you need to know about San Diego water and these rate hikes. And in the second half of the show, the latest San Diego Housing Commission drama and why it matters for the local housing crisis.
Sign up our upcoming events (Cannabis Equity and Politifest) at vosd.org/events
Check out San Diego 101: How We Get Our Water vosd.org/sd101
Support VOSD and our future at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Buckle up, folks. There's another major revelation in the 101 Ash St. saga this week. (That segment starts around minute 30 in the episode if you're antsy.)
It turns out the city's real estate adviser, Jason Hughes, got paid about $9.5 million dollars (as a volunteer) for the deals he facilitated. The scoop this week by VOSD's Lisa Halverstadt was that Hughes made an agreement with Cisterra Development (the city's eventual landlord) to earn a profit off the deals or be held financially accountable if they fell apart.
Also this week: Some cops refuse to get vaccinated. A vaccine expert gets real about the Delta variant. And a local hotelier makes a splash at the Elizabeth Holmes trial.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shane Crotty and his team at the La Jolla Institute of Immunology have been studying viruses for a long time. We wanted to talk to him again.
He first joined our podcast in March when vaccines were first becoming available and we knew a lot less. Now, after a few months and a few major variants of the virus, we have new questions. Like, why is Delta so much worse? Is it OK to go to concerts and ball games? What’s the deal with booster shots? Crotty and host Scott Lewis get into it.
The post from March: voiceofsandiego.org/topics/news/bonus-podcast-its-all-a-race-interview-with-an-immunologist
Keep up with the region's most important news at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is our last podcast before the recall election on Sept. 14.
So let's review the candidate we know most about: former San Diego mayor Kevin Faulconer. On the show, Scott and Andy review Faulconer's trajectory over the last few months and how that squares with his mayoral tenure. Also, we discuss his weird ballot title.
Plus: The city and county struggle with COVID-19 testing for homeless residents.
Check out our recap of the Faulconer Administration here: voiceofsandiego.org/faulconer
Register for our upcoming event about cannabis equity here: voiceofsandiego.org/cannabis
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, San Diego Unified — the largest school district in the region — opened up for in-person classes.
Also back this week is our Parent's Guide to San Diego Schools. It's a tool we furnish every year to help parents make informed decisions for their kids' education. In this episode we preview an uncertain school year and highlight the biggest stories from the guide. Check out the guide at vosd.org/schools
And the drama keeps coming for the county Board of Supervisors. This week, there was tension involving the locally beloved Bitchin' Sauce and a vote to declare misinformation a public health crisis. See our podcast on the local company here: voiceofsandiego.org/topics/economy/i-made-it-in-san-diego-the-battle-behind-a-familys-secret-sauce
Support the Parent's Guide and all our work at vosd.org/donate
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A couple years ago, then-Assemblyman Todd Gloria wrote an op-ed for VOSD. In it, he coined the term "San Diego Special." We immediately became obsessed.
Its definition is rough but essentially aims to label a persistent problem in local government that should be solvable but has stuck around due to lack of vision or leadership. Think vacation rentals, the Convention Center expansion or scooters.
Now, as mayor, Gloria joins the podcast to discuss these very regionally-specific obstacles. He came prepped with a list of his top-five San Diego Specials to compare to our own.
Read all about San Diego Specials at vosd.org/specials
Thank you to everyone who's joined our fundraising campaign this week! If you haven't donated yet, now's your chance. Support this show and all our reporting at vosd.org/give
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we're giving you a comprehensive look at the years-long case of Fridoon Nehad, the man who was shot and killed by a police officer in 2015. Since the start, this case has been marked by secrecy and misinformation. Now, we think we have the full story.
Plus: Public comments got wild at a Board of Supervisors meeting and schools are already scrambling to keep up with COVID-19 cases.
Scott wrote something about Sara this week. Here it is.
Find all our newsletters at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It has been quite a week for the San Diego County sheriff.
Sheriff Bill Gore and his team are getting backlash from across the country after they shared a video of a deputy they claimed overdosed from fentanyl simply by encountering it.
The thing is, toxicologists say that’s impossible.
That's not the only reason the agency is experiencing blowback. The sheriff told San Diego police last month they could resume booking people accused of misdemeanors into local jails, but they wouldn’t tell us what crimes can get you booked into jail.
And finally, this all comes out after the sheriff announced he wouldn’t be running for re-election and a bunch of prominent Democrats pounced on the chance to endorse his chosen successor.
Hosts Scott Lewis, Sara Libby and Andrew Keatts explain why that happened and more on this week's VOSD Podcast.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Not long ago, we were all obsessing over the state-mandated tier system. If were were still in the days of tiers, San Diego would be in the most restrictive purple tier, which mainly allowed only outdoor activities. Oh, how far we've come. And also kind of not.
This week, we discuss the state of COVID in the region, our case for county data and new mandates for vaccines.
Plus: San Diego Housing Commission Cliffs Notes and a ballot measure for parks and libraries.
Follow all our stories and takes on local news with The Morning Report: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Standardized testing has long been derided as an imperfect way to measure a school’s performance. But it’s a metric that’s easy to access and easy to understand.
This week, education reporter Will Huntsberry explains a new metric for understanding and evaluating test scores. It takes into account poverty levels, a crucial factor that heavily influences a school’s test scores.
Plus: Climate change, local vaccination requirements and city real estate problems can't stop, won't stop.
Find Will's newsletter, The Learning Curve at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s been a devastating month for San Diego cyclists — four have lost their lives after being hit by drivers. The most recent was this week, when a driver hit and killed a bicyclist on Pershing Drive.
KPBS's Andrew Bowen (@acbowen) joins the show this week to talk about the state of bike safety in the region, where and why safety plans are failing and the sacrifices needed to achieve the city’s “Vision Zero” goal, which is to have zero traffic-related deaths by 2025.
Plus: The deal with former mayor Kevin Faulconer's recall ballot title and the San Diego city attorney's hands-off approach to infractions.
Keep up with all of our stories and investigations with The Morning Report: Get it at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city is coming for all those fancy outdoor dining structures. Or is it? We'll discuss what's really going on with those structures that happen to have a wonderful name in local political circles.
Plus, a sudden local political resignation fits into a larger trend. From various local school boards, the failed effort to recall San Diego City Council President Jen Campbell and even the recall election of Gov. Gavin Newsom, tensions over how and when to reopen seem to be driving conflict.
Keep up with all our local news coverage with the Morning Report: vosd.org/newsletters
+++++++++
Are you involved in local government as an elected official or passionate citizen? Then we want to hear your origin story! Tell us how you got started as part of a new special project from VOSD. voiceofsandiego.org/originstory
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Carlos Turner Cortez was on the job for one day when VOSD education reporter Will Huntsberry called him up for an interview.
Cortez's new gig is chancellor for the San Diego Community College District — overseeing roughly 100,000 students and 8,000 employees. This week on the VOSD Podcast, Cortez lays out the state of the district at the tail end of a pandemic and some big ideas he has for serving the most vulnerable San Diegans through community college.
Plus: The latest on 101 Ash St. and police oversight.
+++++++++
Are you involved in local government as an elected official or passionate citizen? Then we want to hear your origin story! Tell us how you got started as part of a new special project from VOSD. voiceofsandiego.org/originstory
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we explain the 101 Ash Street saga from the beginning and why it matters.
In January, VOSD’s Lisa Halverstadt wrote a long piece on the role Jason Hughes, a commercial real estate broker, had in the mess the city has faced related to 101 Ash St., the building it was never able to move employees into.
Hughes had been an unpaid volunteer advising mayors going back to Bob Filner and helping the city renegotiate leases. But he also helped the city lease two large towers, 101 Ash St. and Civic Center Plaza.
This week, we learned Hughes had, at some point, stopped being a volunteer and had instead gotten one of the most lucrative commercial real estate gigs in the city: representing the city itself. He revealed it himself. The company that bought the two buildings so that the city could lease them from it paid him $9.4 million.
He revealed it because the city attorney was about to make public the results of its subpoenas and new lawsuits meant to unravel the two deals based on the theory that Hughes had violated state conflict-of-interest laws and thus the lease-to-own arrangements were void.
It’s all very complex. We have two important pieces on it: Why what then-Mayor Kevin Faulconer knew matters and how we wouldn’t know any of this without asbestos.
And now, we now have this podcast.
Read more at voiceofsandiego.org/101ash
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Housing dominates California politics. It will shape big cities like San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco this year and in the future.
Josh Stephens is the author of a book dedicated to this issue, "The Urban Mystique," which focuses on the potential of such cities — what they are and what they could be — through the lens of housing and development.
Host Andy Keatts interviewed Stephens at an event put on by the San Diego-Tijuana Urban Land Institute. The folks at ULI were kind enough to lend us the audio of that discussion for this bonus ep.
Keep up with all our housing stories with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Homelessness in San Diego is officially “near crisis level.”
We’ve been calling it a "crisis" for a while now, but new reporting lays out how big the problem really is — and how much money local leaders are ready to throw at it.
Plus: The debate over how to implement police oversight and another local defection from the GOP.
Send Scott your receipts! He wants to see whatever "pandemic surcharges" restaurants are pushing these days. Send 'em to scott@vosd.org or on Twitter @vosdscott.
Thank you to all who gave during our most recent campaign! We appreciate you all. If you missed your chance, become a member anytime at vosd.org/donate (plus you'll get access to Scott and Andy's Politics Report).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Now that the state has officially reopened, it’s time to look forward.
On this week’s VOSD Podcast, hosts Scott Lewis and Sara Libby go through several questions looming for the second half of the year.
Schools will be open in the fall, but how many students will choose to stay home, and why? Every elected government agency is redrawing the lines for voters, which will have big impacts for upcoming local races. Speaking of upcoming races, how will the effort to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom ultimately shake out? Finally, the mayor says homelessness may get more visible soon. How long are we talking?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We need more housing. A lot, lot more.
This week, the San Diego City Council approved changes to a housing plan it submitted to comply with a state housing law. San Diego was the first city to go through the process this cycle, which attracted interest across the state.
On the show, we review what happened the last time the city went through this process, how those numbers actually shook out (spoiler: not great) and some glaring issues with the plan.
Plus: The latest at Lincoln High, what's up with redistricting and three reasons to party on June 15.
Watch our video that breaks down redistricting here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoZ5xFkdW8g&ab_channel=VoiceofSanDiego
And here's our panel about what it could mean for communities: https://www.voiceofsandiego.org/politifest-2020/redistricting-for-our-community/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Thursday afternoon, as we sat down to record this podcast, a proverbial grenade was lobbed into our virtual podcast studio in the form of this letter.
School Board Trustee Sharon Whitehurst-Payne released the letter in response to San Diego City Councilwoman Monica Montgomery Steppe’s own letter from a few weeks ago requesting answers about Lincoln High.
This week, we read the letter with fresh eyes and unpack its implications. Plus: A whole heap of housing politics.
Read Scott's take on the letter here: voiceofsandiego.org/nonfeature/school-board-member-escalates-war-of-words-over-lincoln-high
Keep up with Capitol news, politics our daily news takes and more! Subscribe to your interests at our newsletter hub: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we discuss the response to a San Diego city councilwoman's open letter about the troubles at Lincoln High. And we’ve got three major investigations to unspool about about potential fraud at Volunteers of America, conflicts of interest with the San Diego Housing Commission and harassment at a local university.
Keep up with all our investigations with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
Catch our explainer series, San Diego 101: vosd.org/sd101
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we discuss a public records failure by San Diego Unified, a high-profile callout of Lincoln High and some spicy public agency Twitter drama.
School up on the region with San Diego 101: vosd.org/sd101
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A lot of parking spots were taken away last year when the city of San Diego let restaurants move their business outside temporarily to keep customers around safely.
Now that we're moving to an increasingly maskless and virus-less region, what's the deal with those patio structures? This week, we discuss the mixed messaging that's coming from the city on the structures' future.
Plus: The latest on 101 Ash St., Cindy Marten's new job is official and other local news.
Watch San Diego 101 – A user's guide to the region: vosd.org/sd101
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The recall election truly earned the criticism this week that the effort is a circus.
One San Diegan in the race, John Cox, is pushing some wild tactics that feature an actual bear. The other San Diegan running is former Mayor Kevin Faulconer, a key player in a new investigation by Voice of San Diego.
This week, we talk the race, the investigation and a story of potential fraud at a powerful charity.
Plus: San Diego 101 is back! We'll break down the latest series of explainers and how you can use it to learn about the region — and change it.
Watch them all at voiceofsandiego.org/sd101
Tell us what you want to know at voiceofsandiego.org/contact
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The recall is on.
Enough signatures have been gathered to trigger an election to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom, likely sometime in November, just before the next gubernatorial election in 2022. This week, we review the mechanics of a statewide recall election, like what you'll see on the ballot and how you'll be able to vote.
Plus: Andy Keatts tells the story of the rise of Reform California, a conservative political advocacy group.
Keep up with all our political coverage with the Politics Report: vosd.org/politics
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria released his proposed budget for the city's next fiscal year.
Since then, Scott, Andy and Sara — along with a lot of other folks in the city — have been digging into it to suss out where the mayor stands on police and other major city services. This week, we're getting in to the police funding argument.
Plus: Rent relief money could get left on the table. High Tech High is set to unionize. And... a new rendering! (Check it out here.)
Watch our recent members event unpacking the city budget at vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we review some of the latest efforts by elected officials to change policing, from budgets to bills. Plus: Schools are back! And the Convention Center is changing as much as the rest of us.
Keep up with all our investigations and news analysis with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
Join us Wed., April 12 for a happy hour to discuss the San Diego city budget: vosd.org/events
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Akilah Weber is poised to clinch the 79th Assembly District seat vacated by her mother, Secretary of State Shirley Weber, and become the newest state legislator. We're going to conduct a postmortem on this special election (the rules of which we learned in real time) and how some nasty politics shook out leading up the vote.
Plus: Next week marks the start of what will totally catch on as “The Great Reopening.” June 15 is gonna be a big deal. And Measure C is back.
Join the spring campaign today! Donate a tax-deductible gift at: vosd.org/spring2021
If you write a note to us when you give, we'll thank you on next week's show. Every gift and every donor means a lot to us.
Follow our stories all week long: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's podcast, Scott Lewis, Andrew Keatts and Sara Libby ran down three items in the news that were pushing their buttons.
First: Several local Republican politicians seized on a local agency's call for teachers to volunteer to conduct some lessons for the migrant girls being temporarily housed at the Convention Center to try and stoke resentment and anger toward the girls. In doing so, they also publicized some outright falsehoods.
Meanwhile, as vaccinations continue and life starts inching back toward normal, scooters are making a comeback. We recalled how, pre-pandemic, this was an issue that many San Diego civic leaders actually took seriously.
And finally, VOSD's Will Huntsberry reported this week that Lincoln High's leadership team is being shaken up once again. The district responded to the story by doubling down on the narrative that everything is great at Lincoln and that suggesting otherwise demonstrates something sinister, a kind of gaslighting that benefits no one.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The current migration from Central America to the U.S. is one of the biggest national stories right now — often referred to as a "surge."
In this podcast, Tom Wong, UC San Diego professor and director of the U.S. Immigration Policy Center, is going to explain what’s really happening and how it all fits within longstanding patterns.
Wong and host Andrew Keatts are going to get into the data, how it's captured and how pent-up demand from the 2020 pandemic is catching up to us.
Keep up with immigration news with The Border Report: vosd.org/border
Support local journalism: vosd.org/donate
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When San Diego Unified Superintendent Cindy Marten sat in front of a U.S. Senate committee this week as part of the process to confirm her as deputy education secretary, many senators got to ask questions we've been wanting to ask for a while. We're gonna get into those questions now.
Plus, the San Diego Convention Center — which has sheltered homeless San Diegans during the pandemic — will soon house migrant children seeking asylum.
(Keep an eye on the feed for a bonus episode with a local expert who will zoom out on the longer migration trends and how this moment fits in.)
Follow your interests with our newsletters: vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Scott Lewis got to talk to Dr. Shane Crotty, an immunologist and vaccine expert who leads the Crotty Lab at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology at UC San Diego.
They broke down some of the science of COVID-19 as it tries to thrive in the world — and the race between us and the virus. Plus, Crotty answers listener questions.
Support explanatory journalism at vosd.org/parkermatch
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego’s homeless residents have been struck by yet another horrific and deadly tragedy. On the show, we put this week's events into context and discuss the major roadblock to any real homelessness solutions: a lack of truly affordable housing.
Plus: San Diego schools are about to get an unprecedented amount of money. So what now?
Bonus episode coming soon! Make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss our upcoming interview about vaccine science and the race against COVID.
Support explanatory journalism and your gift will be matched! Join at vosd.org/parkermatch
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Educators are scrambling to decide when and how to reopen. But what does "open" really mean?
This week, we get in the middle of haggling that's going on between school district officials and the teachers union.
It's been three months since Mayor Todd Gloria took office. We check on his progress and promises about homelessness. Plus, a windfall of cash is coming to the region thanks to federal coronavirus relief. So, what next?
Join VOSD today and get your donation matched! Support explanatory journalism at vosd.org/parkermatch
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Let's talk about leadership. This week, an interview by KPBS's Andrew Bowen caught the attention of Scott, Andy and Sara.
He was interviewing San Diego City Council President Jen Campbell, and she voluntarily rehashed the contentious battle she fought to become Council president. We get into that and a brief history of Council presidency.
At the state level, California's leadership is trying to wrap up this whole virtual schools nightmare. But former Mayor Kevin Faulconer thinks he can lead better.
Plus: VOSD's MacKenzie Elmer joins the show to unpack a binational sewage crisis.
Support explanatory journalism! Join now and your contribution will be matched by the Parker Foundation: vosd.org/parkermatch
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you live in the 79th Assembly District, you’ve got another election coming up. That’s because Shirley Weber, who represented the area for nearly a decade, was recently appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to be California’s new secretary of state. VOSD held a debate with the five candidates running for that seat.
This is part two of the debate — police, criminal justice and reform.
Keep up with state Assembly news with the Sacramento Report: vosd.org/sacramento
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you live in the 79th Assembly District, you’ve got another election coming up. That’s because Shirley Weber, who represented the area for nearly a decade, was recently appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to be California’s new secretary of state. VOSD held a debate with the five candidates running for that seat.
This is part one of the debate — schools and education.
Keep up with state Assembly news with the Sacramento Report: vosd.org/sacramento
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, San Diego took an actual step toward solving the years-long political puzzle of vacation rentals. But before we go popping bottles over fancy new rental regulations and permitting procedures, our Scott, Andy and Sara assess what the new rules could look like in real life and whether they may have the desired effect anytime soon. Plus: The latest story on San Diego Police mishandling rape kits and a school reopening date is on the horizon (or so it seems).
Watch the debate with the candidates running to replace Shirley Weber in the state Assembly: vosd.org/79th
Keep up with all our politics coverage with The Politics Report: vosd.org/politics
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Recently, our hosts volunteered at a local vaccination super site. On the show, they recount how that experience went, what they saw and heard and the emotions some folks experienced after getting their shots. While a new crop of local vaccination sites and the promise of more adults getting shots continues, we've still got normal problems like weather getting in the way; insufficient supply forced local vaccination sites to close recently. With all this news, we discuss what it could mean for schools. (Scott Lewis has some ideas for San Diego Unified.) Plus: The race to replace Shirley Weber in the state Assembly is on.
Get the details for our town hall for the 79th Assembly District special election at vosd.org/79th
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we review the short, dramatic history that led to the recall effort of City Council President Jen Campbell. Plus: County Supervisor Joel Anderson tried to get COVID-19 vaccines for cops but was blocked by the Democrat majority. We try to figure out why.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego's budget is in trouble. This week, we pin down what's going on with the city's books — especially hiring that happened under former Mayor Kevin Faulconer and infrastructure mandates the city must soon comply with.
Plus: Faulconer's officially running for governor.
Keep up with all our stories and local takes with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The road back to in-person schooling is filled with some high hurdles. Teachers and their unions are increasingly demanding that educators be vaccinated before officials re-open schools. But mandating vaccines is tricky business. This week, we try to piece together the vexing vaxx puzzle.
Plus: San Diego Assemblywoman Shirley Weber is set to make history as secretary of state while the scramble to replace her gets going.
Love the show? Share us with a friend! vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The news came down this week that San Diego Unified Superintendent Cindy Marten was tapped to be the deputy education secretary for the Biden administration. It's another major bump for a local leader. On this episode, we dive deep into her tenure and stories we've done while she's led the district.
Plus: COVID vaccinations, tests and data cops are getting from the county.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Now for something totally different.
This week, host Scott Lewis spoke with Travis View, a writer, researcher and co-host of the podcast QAnon Anonymous. It’s a show dedicated to understanding, debunking and explaining the conspiracy theory group QAnon, which was instrumental in the insurrection at the Capitol last week. You can find that show wherever you listen to podcasts.
Get Scott’s newsletter, The Politics Report, at vosd.org/politics
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria gave the first State of the City address of his new administration this week. It was a big deal — not just because it was his first as head of the city. It was also the first (and hopefully last?) of the pandemic, and the first since former Mayor Kevin Faulconer launched his exploratory committee for governor. Let's talk about it.
And VOSD's Jesse Marx joins us on the second half of the show to talk about his story detailing how the San Diego City Council approved funds for a secretive law enforcement group to purchase surveillance tech.
Get our most popular newsletter, The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the insurrection at the Capitol dominated the news this week, we surveyed what San Diego's congressional delegation was up to.
On the state side, Gov. Gavin Newsom started a political domino effect by appointing Assemblywoman Shirley Weber to Secretary of State. Plus: some troubling local news about domestic violence prosecutions and support.
Sign up for the Politics Report at vosd.org/politics
Get our daily newsletter at vosd.org/morning
Thank you to all our donors! You helped make our year-end campaign a success. We're grateful for such a dedicated audience.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Scott Lewis interviews the two local reporters who got their hands on the COVID-19 outbreak data that the county fought to keep under wraps. KPBS's Katy Stegall and Claire Trageser join the show and share what they found, how to read the data and important points to keep in mind when absorbing it all.
Support this show at vosd.org/podcast2020
See the KPBS investigation at kpbs.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's show is dedicated to the way things could be. We're examining some of the biggest issues and institutions in San Diego — from our Rethinking San Diego series — and discussing what major changes could really mean for the region. Talking points: Defund the police. A school year redo. San Diego power. The U.S.-Mexico border.
Read the series at voiceofsandiego.org/rethink
Join VOSD and support your favorite podcast hosts by giving here: vosd.org/podcast2020
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Late Thursday night, after hours of public calls and several tech hiccups, the decision was finally made: Dr. Jen Campbell is San Diego's new City Council president. On the podcast this week, which was recorded as the Council meeting was still playing out, we took stock of all the moving political parts that are setting our new San Diego public stage.
Plus: an interview with Joel Day, senior adviser for COVID-19 response and recovery for the city of San Diego under former Mayor Kevin Faulconer.
Support the podcast today at vosd.org/podcast2020
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is our last podcast of the Faulconer era.
After this week, Mayor Kevin Faulconer will step down and Todd Gloria will take the job. On the show, we reflect on the last seven years of Faulconer's mayorship. Plus: With the most powerful Republican in the region out of office, what's next for the local GOP?
Love the show? Support us now! We're in our year-end fundraising campaign, and you can show your love for the show directly by giving here: vosd.org/podcast2020
Get the newsletter for this show at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we assess Mayor Kevin Faulconer's possible path to governor. And City Councilmember Monica Montgomery Steppe joins the show to talk about why she should be City Council president.
Keep up with all our political takes with the weekly Politics Report: vosd.org/politics
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The election tidal wave is about to crash down. There's a bunch of change coming to San Diego city and county governments. This week, we preview what's coming for the city of San Diego and the County Board of Supervisors as newly elected officials get ready to take their seats.
Keep up with it all by subscribing to The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
If you're a political junkie, then The Politics Report is for you: vosd.org/politics
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is our election night results show. We reviewed the biggest races we were tracking throughout 2020. Hear the big takeaways and results as they stood late Tuesday evening. Some contests and candidates were surprisingly decisive while others still need to sweat it out.
Keep up with all our election coverage with The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Three editors. Three rounds. No mercy.
Well, some mercy. Scott Lewis kinda cheated toward the end of the draft.
The Voice of San Diego Podcast Election Draft is back! And coming at you this week as our final episode before the election. (The draft starts at minute 31 in the show.)
The first half of the show is dedicated to The Voice Poll and what we found from a scientific survey of San Diegans.
See more from The Voice Poll: vosd.org/voicepoll
Subscribe to The Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we assess the current state of school inequities as San Diego Unified makes plans to open further. Plus, how the Board of Supervisors may change after November.
The Voice of San Diego election draft returns next week! Get your picks for local races and measures ready.
Subscribe to Scott, Andy and Sara's newsletters at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You asked for it, so here it is.
This week, we review the five local ballot measures for the city of San Diego — A through E.
Ballot talk starts at minute 12 in the podcast. What precedes is discussion about the Pete Wilson statue and Scott's recent story about plexiglass and how to safely reopen schools and other things.
Get the newsletter for this podcast at vosd.org/newsletters
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Here's another highlight from Politifest 2020.
After the election, Democrats could control the County Board of Supervisors for the first time in a generation. VOSD host Scott Lewis leads a discussion with Supervisor Nathan Fletcher and candidate Nora Vargas — both Democrats. They're going to talk about what could change if they were in control.
Watch more Politifest panels at politifest.org
Get Scott's weekly politics newsletter, The Politics Report: voiceofsandiego.org/politics
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More highlights from Politifest 2020 coming at you. In this episode: San Diego mayoral candidates Barbara Bry and Todd Gloria join VOSD host Scott Lewis for a debate about the future of San Diego. They cover a lot of ground here.
Watch more Politifest panels at politifest.org
Get Scott's weekly politics newsletter, The Politics Report: voiceofsandiego.org/politics
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The San Diego mayor's race is responsible for a lot of bulging mailboxes and dead trees right now. This week, we sift through political mailers and how each camp is using it to their benefit. Plus: The latest chapter in the 101 Ash St. epic and Politifest memories.
Gorge yourself on politics with your Politifest Youtube playlist. Get it at politifest.org
Subscribe to our daily newsletter at vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Starting this week, we're dropping bonus episodes featuring some of the best conversations from Politifest 2020. In this episode: An overview of each measure on the statewide ballot, from rideshare drivers to affirmative action. VOSD editors Sara Libby and Jesse Marx will help you understand what each measure would do and who’s lining up for and against them.
Watch more Politifest panels at politifest.org
Get Sara's weekly newsletter, The Sacramento Report: voiceofsandiego.org/newsletters
We'll be back on Friday afternoon, as usual, with your weekly debrief from Scott and Sara.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Starting this week, we're dropping bonus episodes featuring some of the best conversations from Politifest 2020. Up first is a conversation about police reform with California Attorney General Xavier Bacerra and Alain Stephens, reporter from The Trace. In this interview: racial discrimination, the future of policing and realistic reforms.
Watch more Politifest panels at politifest.org
We'll be back on Friday afternoon, as usual, with your weekly debrief from Scott and Sara.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we hash out San Diego's new homeless planning woes, a suspended City Council campaign and the fluidity of reality around Prop. 15.
Check out some of our free Politifest panels, including Sara Libby's ballot measure crash course, at https://www.youtube.com/user/voiceofsandiego
Share us with your friends! www.vosd.org/pod
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the podcast, we're gearing up for Politifest 2020: Pick Your Future. We'll preview some of the most exciting panels, interviews and discussions to look forward to during the week-long virtual conference, including Sara Libby's ballot measure crash course and Attorney General Xavier Bacerra on policing.
Plus: A couple hot stories from the 'Jesse Beat' and the Port of San Diego has to pay up.
Get your tickets to Politifest at politifest.org
Keep up with all our stories with the Morning Report: vosd.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
San Diego State University is not an island. That may seem obvious, but Gov. Gavin Newsom had to say so explicitly after county supervisors asked the state to exclude SDSU's COVID cases from the county's overall numbers. At the time of our recording this week, San Diego was poised to head to the most restrictive purple tier, which would tighten rules for businesses.
This week on the VOSD podcast, we stewed over these arguments from the county and how one could slice up numbers to navigate the less-than-intuitive color scheme that determines what counties can and can't do.
Register for Politifest 2020 today! We have a full schedule of events at this year's virtual, week-long summit. Check it out at politifest.org
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We discarded the first podcast recording we did Thursday and recorded a new emergency episode after NBC 7 retracted its bombshell story about Assemblyman Todd Gloria and the 101 Ash St. scandal.
Read our latest Politics Report to catch up on the scandal.
Come for a breakdown of the unfolding drama. Stay for an exploration of how journalism works and the dilemmas this development opens up.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Even by the standards of this new, weird world in which the pandemic and President Donald Trump combine for seemingly a hundred major news items a week, it was a big news week.
VOSD alone had major stories about MTS's draconian fare policies, an explosive account from a Sheriff's employee of what she says really happened leading up to a suicide in the Vista jail, two possible ethics violations by Council candidate Kelvin Barrios and more.
In this episode of the VOSD Podcast, Scott Lewis, Andrew Keatts and I ran down several of these big developments. (And in a shocking twist, Scott talked about schools.)
One programming note: Perhaps bigger than all of these big stories is the drama that unfolded after NBC San Diego published a new story on the 101 Ash St. scandal. That piece broke as we were recording, and the ensuing fallout happened afterward. For more on that, check out this week's Politics Report.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In San Diego, single-family zoning reigns supreme. So supreme, in fact, that in a whopping 70 percent of the land where it's legal to build housing, only single-family housing is allowed.
That jaw-dropper and how we got to it was the subject of a deep dive into the origins of San Diego's single-family zoning laws by Andrew Keatts this week.
On the podcast, he gave a rundown of how San Diego's original single-family zoning law came to be and how it's defined life in San Diego ever since.
KPBS, VOSD Join Forces in COVID Lawsuit
Speaking of how life in San Diego is being defined, we have new updates on our effort to force San Diego County officials to provide more detailed information about coronavirus outbreaks locally. KPBS has joined our lawsuit to compel the county to provide records under the California Public Records Act.
County Public Health Officer Wilma Wooten drove home the importance of that effort when she was pressed for details about how the county addresses community outbreaks. She said only, confusingly, that the county would "monitor and continue doing the same thing we've always been doing" to address them.
Drama in D9
Also on the podcast this week, we broke down the scandal that bubbled up this week involving Kelvin Barrios, a City Council candidate hoping to replace his former boss, Council President Georgette Gómez, in District 9.
Barrios is the subject of a criminal investigation through the DA's office and previously paid a fine levied by the state Fair Political Practices Commission related to his spending of campaign funds. Gómez told us this week she's "pausing" her endorsement of Barrios' campaign, which is a tier of endorsement that's new to us.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we are trying to keep up with the ever-changing drama of rideshare companies' fight against state labor law. Plus: SANDAG head Hasan Ikhrata makes big waves with small donations to local campaigns. And this November, one race could change transit in the region.
Catch Scott Lewis's interview with the guy who's going to run San Diego's election, Michael Vu: voiceofsandiego.org/athome
Keep up with our biggest stories and local news updates with The Morning Report: voiceofsandiego.org/morning
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.