By Kelly Hessedal / CBS8 / January 12, 2026
Mayors from across San Diego County demanded Monday that San Diego city leaders repeal newly implemented parking fees at Balboa Park, citing fairness concerns, economic impact and a significant public backlash against the charges.
The coalition of mayors stand in support of activist Shane Harris’ proposal he drafted for the council calling for the parking fees to be repealed. Harris also said an online petition has gathered more than 1500 signatures.
The effort includes mayors from Coronado, Escondido, San Marcos, El Cajon and Chula Vista. It also includes council members from Del Mar and La Mesa. A news conference was held outside the Air and Space Museum Monday morning.
“Paying for parking to stay out and active is unacceptable,” said San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones.
“Thousand of residents in Chula Vista come here with their families to visit Balboa Park every year. Whether they’re veterans, seniors, or on school trips, they are incredibly affected by this parking fee. Balboa Park is a regional asset,” said Chula Vista Mayor John McCann.
The push comes just days after the parking fees took effect for the first time last weekend. Video from Balboa Park showed notably sparse parking lots over the weekend, raising concerns among city leaders that visitors may be discouraged from coming to the popular destination.
The coalition contends that the charges are inequitable, allowing only those who can afford to pay to use the park. They also argue that Balboa Park serves as a major tourist attraction for both the city and county, and that the administrative and enforcement costs of the parking program outweigh the benefits it generates.
The city council appears divided on the issue. Three council members have already opposed the fees and voted against them. Two additional council members are discussing the possibility of temporarily suspending the fees. However, Mayor Todd Gloria’s Office has indicated it will not reverse course, stating that the parking program has already been rolled out and will remain in place.
Monday afternoon, Jan.12, the mayor’s office sent CBS 8 the following statement:
“The proposal discussed today would dismantle the City’s progress in creating a direct funding stream for Balboa Park’s operations and improvements, returning the park to a cycle of unfunded promises and deferred maintenance. To date, nearly 2,000 San Diegans have purchased passes to support the park’s public spaces. We understand this is a major change, but it is a necessary one.”
I’m not in support of the paid parking.
But how many of these County Mayors that are opposing the paid parking are willing to provide funding to Balboa Park ?
The homeowners in the City of San Diego pay property taxes.
Will these Mayors add a line item to give funds to City of San Diego exclusively for Balboa Park?
But I definitely support the SD Zoo charging for parking, as long as Balboa charges for parking.
If not, then the Balboa park guests will park in the Zoo lot to avoid paying fees. Lots more people going to Balboa Park started parking at the Zoo , after the Bus Lane, and bicycle lanes were added that removed lots of parking spots on Park Blvd.