Under Democrat leadership, the management of San Diego has been plagued by ineffective policies and misplaced priorities. However, Supervisor Jim Desmond has emerged as a strong and vocal leader, holding the Democrats accountable and championing the right solutions for the community. With his unwavering commitment to the people of San Diego, Desmond is the leader we need on the Board of Supervisors.

Recently, the Board of Supervisors voted 3-1 to authorize the purchase of four hotels in an attempt to address homelessness. However, Supervisor Desmond rightfully criticized this decision, highlighting the lack of accountability and the exorbitant cost to taxpayers. Spending over $153 million, equivalent to $478,000 per unit, is not a viable solution to the homelessness crisis.

Desmond’s stance against this flawed approach is grounded in his understanding of the root causes of homelessness. He emphasizes that neglecting mental health, alcohol abuse, and drug addiction while focusing solely on housing is a fundamental flaw in the proposed strategy. Simply relocating individuals without addressing these underlying challenges perpetuates the cycle of homelessness rather than resolving it.

California is burdened with almost one-third of the nation’s homeless population, despite significant financial investments. Over the past three years, the state has spent $10 billion on homeless solutions, yet the problem persists. Supervisor Desmond recognizes the urgent need for comprehensive and effective measures to combat homelessness.

Desmond firmly voted against the housing-first projects, reflecting his commitment to prioritize initiatives that address the root causes of homelessness. His decision stems from his belief that we must redirect our efforts toward comprehensive solutions that prioritize mental health services and addiction recovery programs. By focusing on enabling individuals to achieve sobriety and providing access to necessary support and resources, we can break the cycle of homelessness and make a lasting impact on people’s lives.

Supervisor Jim Desmond’s strong leadership and commitment to accountability make him a beacon of hope for the citizens of San Diego. His unwavering dedication to the well-being of the community and his refusal to compromise on effective solutions demonstrate his commitment to serving the best interests of the taxpayers. By holding the Democrats accountable and advocating for comprehensive strategies, Desmond paves the way for a brighter future, one where the root causes of homelessness are effectively addressed.

Let us join Supervisor Jim Desmond in his call for responsible and accountable leadership. Together, we can implement strategies that bring real change to the lives of the homeless population and fulfill our obligations to the taxpayers we serve. Supervisor Desmond is the leader we need on the Board of Supervisors, guiding us towards effective solutions and a better future for all of San Diego.

Supervisor Desmond: “Spending $153 Million Dollars at $478,000 Per Unit is Not the Solution for Homelessness.”

Earlier today, the Board of Supervisors voted 3-1 to authorize a memorandum of agreement between the County of San Diego and the San Diego Housing Commission, to purchase four hotels in an effort to combat homelessness.

Today’s legislation fails to address the root causes of homelessness and lacks the necessary accountability for taxpayer funds. Spending over $153 million taxpayer dollars at $478,000 per unit is not the solution.

This housing-first projects, which aims to convert four hotels into housing for the homeless, disregards sobriety or substance use as eligibility criteria. Neglecting the core challenges of mental health, alcohol abuse, and drug addiction is a fundamental flaw in the proposed approach.

California has nearly one-third of the nation’s homeless population. Despite significant financial investments, including $10 billion spent on homeless solutions over the past three years, we have not progressed in resolving the issue.

The housing first approach, devoid of requirements for participation in addressing health issues, merely perpetuates the cycle of homelessness. Simply relocating individuals without addressing the underlying challenges is an inadequate solution. Taxpayers rightfully demand accountability for the millions of dollars being allocated to address homelessness, and we must fulfill their expectations.

I firmly cast my “no” vote on the housing first projects. My decision reflects my commitment to prioritize initiatives that effectively address the root causes of homelessness.

We must redirect our efforts toward comprehensive solutions prioritizing mental health services and addiction recovery programs. By focusing on enabling individuals to achieve sobriety and providing access to the necessary support and resources, we can break the cycle of homelessness and create a lasting impact.

Let’s work together to implement strategies that truly make a difference in the lives of the homeless population and fulfill our responsibility to the taxpayers we serve.