San Diego County releases 2024-2025 budget, seeks public input

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- San Diego County unveiled its latest budget Thursday afternoon, which includes various investments in infrastructure, behavioral health and affordable housing.

According to a breakdown of the proposed budget by County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond, a new public health lab, which is expected to open next year, will receive among the largest portions of funding -- an estimated $92 million.

County Sheriff's patrol stations are also set to receive a significant share of funding. The budget shows approximately $86.9 million will go toward six patrol stations that serve unincorporated communities and contracted agreements with the cities of San Marcos and Vista. Additionally, $16 million in funding will be allocated for fire, emergency and ambulance services, the county says.

The budget for road maintenance will increase by $4.5 million, the county says, leading to a total of $65.5 million for improving 2,000 miles of county roadways.

County parks and libraries will also get some funding to help with operations and improvements. The proposed budget allocation for parks is $33.5 million, and over half a million for libraries.

Tackling homelessness is another focus for the county, with $15 million aimed at helping people transition into stable housing in unincorporated areas. The county is also allocating an unspecified amount of money for five affordable housing developments with a total of 376 units. Eight more developments are planned, according to the county.

Another good portion of the county's budget will be aimed at funding a nearly 14,000-square-foot psychiatric health facility in Oceanside. The county says the 16-bed facility is estimated to get over $9 million in funding.

Meanwhile, 15 schools throughout the county's fifth district will get a share of $5 million to help with mental health support for middle school students, and another $3.5 million will support adults receiving substance use treatment.

Other investments in public health include the addition of mobile units meant to increase access to health and wellness services in different communities, as well as an additional $1.5 million for water quality testing.

The county says over the coming weeks, it will ask for community input and make adjustments to the budget proposal before its formal adoption.