As the Mayor of San Diego, Todd Gloria has been entrusted with the responsibility of protecting and preserving the city’s landmarks. However, his recent decision to open two safe campsites at the edge of Balboa Park has raised concerns among citizens, who fear that the city’s jewel will be ruined.
Gloria’s shift on safe camping is a clear indication of his inability to handle the homelessness crisis in the city. In 2021, Gloria noted that the safe campground concept was “not particularly successful or (a) national best practice.” But by early 2022, he seemed willing to consider it out of exasperation with the city’s homelessness crisis. Months later, the mayor agreed to include $200,000 in the city’s budget to back a safe camping pilot for seniors.
The plan ultimately fell apart, and Gloria’s office continued to flag concerns about the concept. But now, he has directed city staff to prepare safe campsites. This sudden shift in stance indicates a lack of foresight and poor decision-making on the part of the Mayor.
The fact that Gloria is planning to set up homeless camps near schools is another indication of his poor leadership. It was only after citizens raised an outcry that the Democrats decided that instead of having the homeless and unhoused impact students, they wanted them to be around tourists and families at the park. This decision shows a lack of concern for the safety and well-being of the people of San Diego.
Gloria’s overall handling of the homelessness crisis in San Diego has been ineffective and misguided. Homelessness continues to be a major issue in the city, with camps sprouting up all over. Gloria’s lack of leadership and vision has only exacerbated the problem.
It is time for the citizens of San Diego to hold Mayor Todd Gloria accountable for his poor leadership. His disregard for Balboa Park, inability to handle the homelessness crisis, and poor decision-making skills are a danger to the city. It is time for San Diego to elect leaders who are committed to the well-being of the city and its citizens.
