May 2025 Newsletter

Council Update

We had two Council Meetings and a Workshop to select new Planning Commissioners in April, these are some of the items we took action on:

• City Council adopted an ordinance amending Sections 15.63 and 15.68, and adding Section 15.69 of the Oceanside City Code to modify existing Sidewalk Vending regulations.

• One of the liveliest discussions of the month was regarding rent control and additional protections for renters. The City Council voted to direct staff to develop a plan to address issues including tenant assistance, rent stabilization for certain rental units, and formalizing disclosure processes for manufactured home residents.

• City Council approved a 13-month Drone as First Responder (DFR) pilot program and a Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC); approve a purchase order to Flying Lion, Inc. for staffing of a visual observer position in an amount not to exceed $143,600.

Our next City Council meeting will be on Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 at 5:00pm.

For summaries of all City Council meetings, please click here.

Workshop Update

The City Council recently held a workshop to fill vacancies on the Planning Commission. Congratulations to Graciela Redgate and Emily Gonzalez on being selected as the newest Planning Commissioners! We look forward to their contributions in shaping the future of Oceanside.

 Getting Out in the Community in April

I attended the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce’s Emerging Issues Forum. This event provides members with a chance to stay informed and connect with community leaders. In April, the San Diego Rescue Mission shared an inspiring update on their work at the North County Lighthouse in Oceanside, highlighting the services they provide to individuals experiencing homelessness and the impact they are making in our community. Additionally, Lance Christiansen from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration shared key tax updates for 2025, including changes to local rates, surcharge rules, and new programs impacting businesses. Thank you to the Chamber for hosting another successful Emerging Issues Forum.

The Oceanside Fire Department recently celebrated the graduation of its 22nd Fire Academy class, marking an exciting milestone for our city. These dedicated individuals have completed months of rigorous training and are now ready to serve and protect the Oceanside community. We’re proud to welcome the newest members of the OFD family as they begin their careers in public service.

I had the privilege of joining the American Red Cross and an incredible team of volunteers to help install free smoke alarms in mobile homes located in District 2 as part of the "Sound the Alarm" campaign. It was inspiring to see our community come together for such an important cause. 826 alarms were installed in a single day, potentially saving countless lives. I'm proud to support efforts that make our neighborhoods safer, and I want to thank the Red Cross, the Oceanside Fire Department, and all the volunteers from across the county who gave their time to help protect Oceanside families.

I had the privilege of participating in the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Veterans Association of North County's Honor Wall. This thoughtfully designed space is dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of our veterans. This project reflects the strength of our community and the deep respect we hold for those who have served and continue to serve. Thank you to all who contributed to bringing this vision to life.

I attended the League of California Cities San Diego County Division's virtual meeting, where the Cal Cities legislative team presented an overview of key legislation for 2025. Topics included wildfire preparedness, housing, homelessness funding, and public safety reforms. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to stay informed on the state-level initiatives that directly impact cities like Oceanside and to advocate for strong local voices in the legislative process.

I had the opportunity to visit Fire Station 4 to recognize our firefighters for the incredible work they do. It was a privilege to meet with the team, learn about the challenges they face, and discuss how we can continue to support them. Their dedication to keeping our community safe is truly inspiring, and I’m committed to ensuring they have the resources they need to do their important work.

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce recently hosted the final Rising Star Student of the Month Award Ceremony for the 2024-2025 school year! After honoring outstanding students each month throughout the year, this event brought all the honorees together for one final celebration. Each Rising Star student in Oceanside received a portion of the $50,000 scholarship fund. A big thank you to the Chamber of Commerce for their continued dedication to our community and for supporting our hardworking students.

What's New in District 2?