San Diego County Offers $135M Grant to Preserve Beach Fire Pits Amid Budget Deficit

San Diego's iconic beach fire pits, which were slated for elimination due to the city's significant budget deficit, may be saved by a $135,000 grant offered by San Diego County through its Community Enhancement Grant Program. County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer and City Council President Joe LaCava announced this stopgap funding, which would cover fire pit maintenance for one year while the city seeks a long-term solution. The fire pits, located at popular beaches like La Jolla Shores, Fiesta Island, Ocean Beach, and Mission Bay, are cherished by residents and visitors for their role in community gatherings, family celebrations, and as a unique local tradition. Community response to preserving the fire pits has been overwhelmingly supportive, with 82% of surveyed constituents backing the idea and many voicing their personal connections to the tradition. While some residents support the cuts due to concerns about smoke and misuse, the majority view the fire pits as an essential part of San Diego's coastal culture. The city council will make a final decision on accepting the grant in upcoming budget discussions.