San Bernardino · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Bernardino public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Immigration enforcement resolutions (Items 17 & 18)
Roughly a dozen speakers from CHIRLA, PEOC, the ACLU-adjacent community, and San Bernardino Community Service Center urged the council to bring forward a pro-immigrant resolution developed with community organizations, citing fear from ICE enforcement activity near schools and hospitals. No resolution was on this agenda.
Camping ban on public property
The council adopted stricter rules on camping in public streets and parks, replacing Chapter 12.98 of the municipal code. Supporters say it protects public access and safety; the ACLU spoke against it, calling it criminalization of poverty.
Three-year pavement work plan
The city will repave about 66 residential miles over three years using fiber-reinforced asphalt that lasts longer — but that leaves roughly $11 million unfunded in year three and a total backlog near $600 million. Council members from several wards complained their worst streets aren't on the map yet.
FY 2026-27 city budget and capital plan
Roughly 11 capital projects are proposed for deferral and 12 for reduced funding, about $15.1 million total, due to staff capacity and budget pressure. Council members flagged City Hall renovation and Tom Malaney Park and asked staff to bring back options.
Five-year homelessness strategic plan
The council extended the motel voucher program contracts, and Councilmember Ibarra shared January outreach numbers: 143 people contacted, 104 helped with motel vouchers, 61 connected to treatment.
Sunshine Motel closure and illicit-activity enforcement
The Council upheld the closure of a motel where inspectors found dangerous unpermitted electrical work, missing smoke alarms and blocked exits — and where police allege women were trafficked. Councilmembers demanded stronger tools, like mandatory periodic inspections of hotels, by September.
City Charter Review
Speaker after speaker pointed out the city has a Charter Review Committee that hasn't met in roughly two years, and that it's the proper channel for charter changes. The council's final vote directs staff to reconvene it and hold community workshops.
Implementation of the City's strategic goals and priorities
San Bernardino keeps producing strategic plans that never get carried out — residents and multiple councilmembers said so directly. The council asked for measurable SMART objectives, a public dashboard, quarterly progress reports, and dedicated project managers so goals actually turn into paved streets and fixed lights.
General Plan 2050 update
The city's first comprehensive plan update since 2005 is nearly done. It projects about 36,000 new homes and 60,000 jobs over 25 years, simplifies zoning categories, and adds an environmental justice element. Public review starts around June 1; adoption hearings are expected in the fall.
Federal grant funds for housing and services (CDBG/HOME/ESG)
Extra $74K in prior-year funds goes to the Salvation Army and the Family Service Association of Redlands to keep homeless prevention services running through 2026.
Shelter bed capacity and housing-first balance
Residents and council members voiced immense frustration over delays in opening the homeless navigation center, stressing that vulnerable unhoused individuals and impacted neighborhoods need immediate solutions.