OB Town Council’s Response to Lack of Funding in Mayor’s Draft Budget for Ocean Beach Infrastructure

Editor: The following is the response in the form of a letter to Councilwoman Zapf by the Ocean Beach Town Council to Mayor Faulconer’s Draft Budget that lacks funding for the most important infrastructure needs in Ocean Beach, namely the library and lifeguard station. 

The OBTC urges Zapf to place the OB Beach Lifeguard Station and Library back in the budget.

April 27, 2015

Dear Councilmember Zapf,

At our most recent public meeting we were made aware of a list of Ocean Beach-related priorities within the Mayor’s FY2016 draft budget. While we are pleased to have additional hours at the Rec Center, and increased funding for our Fire Station, the community was disappointed that there was no proposed funding for some of our most treasured infrastructure. The Life Guard Station and the Ocean Beach Library were noticeably absent from the draft budget.

Earlier this year, we were elated to see these items listed in your Budget Suggestions for FY2016 memo, and it was made clear to us that you are a supporter of our community and wanted to spearhead the improvement of these facilities.

The lifeguard station is a focal point of the community, and a reflection on the city as a whole for the thousands of tourists and local who flock to our beach town every year.

The library is an extremely valuable asset located across from an elementary school that provides much needed access to books, and Internet for all those who need it.

It is our understanding that these items can still be placed on the FY2016 budget with the support of at least 4 other San Diego City Council Members. For these reasons, we are calling on you to be a champion for our community and place the Ocean Beach Lifeguard Station and Ocean Beach Library back in the budget.

Sincerely,

The Ocean Beach Town Council Board of Directors