San Diegans are mobilizing to repeal two new city charges: a trash fee and paid parking at Balboa Park. The measures would bring in about $140 million and $15 million a year, respectively. City leaders say the moves are meant to help cover a $146 million budget shortfall.
The proposed trash fee is the larger of the two. It is expected to generate roughly $140 million each year. That income is intended to help close the gap in the city budget.
The paid parking plan at Balboa Park would bring in about $15 million a year. Supporters say the fees would add a steady revenue stream to the city’s finances.
Local residents have begun organizing to reverse both measures. They say they oppose the fees and want the city to find other ways to balance its books.
The city’s budget shortfall stands at $146 million. The trash fee and the Balboa Park parking charges together are meant to cover much of that shortfall.
The outcome will depend on the repeal effort and decisions by city leaders. If the measures are overturned, the city will need new revenue or spending cuts. If they remain, the fees will start helping to fill the budget gap.
