San Diego Mayor Gloria Cuts 31 Jobs, Addresses $252M Deficit

Mayor Todd Gloria announced significant budget cuts aimed at addressing San Diego's $252.2 million deficit, which surfaced after the failure of Measure E, a proposed sales tax increase. The cuts include the elimination of 31 city hall executive positions, including the Chief Operating Officer, with most being vacant prior to the announcement. Gloria will assume the role of city manager, consolidating multiple departments under his office to enhance efficiency and save costs. He emphasized that while the city faces tough financial realities, it is committed to maintaining essential services like police and fire protection, as well as addressing homelessness. Gloria called for greater collaboration with the county to tackle the homelessness crisis, suggesting that the financial burden cannot rest solely on city taxpayers. The measures are part of Gloria's strategy to ensure San Diego continues to move forward amidst fiscal challenges.