La Mesa · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in La Mesa public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Cannabis Business Tax Rate Increase
The city wants to bump the tax on cannabis shops from 4% to 5% of sales, adding roughly $600,000 a year to the general fund. La Mesa currently has the lowest rate in San Diego County, and the council is split on whether the hike is fair or risks pushing legal shops out.
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Revision
The board is set to approve a revised budget for Fiscal Year 2027, determining how funds will be allocated for park operations, maintenance, and improvements.
Interim City Treasurer Appointment
City Treasurer Matt Strabone reported record investment earnings for the third straight year but raised policy questions about whether La Mesa should continue electing a city treasurer or move toward an appointed financial structure to minimize staff friction.
Refinancing of General Obligation Bonds
The city is refinancing older public safety bonds to save taxpayers over $2 million and shorten the payoff timeline by four years.
FY 2026-27 park budget and cost sharing
The JPA's preliminary budget for next year is about $721,000, with La Mesa covering 40% of shared costs. The final budget comes back in May or June for approval.
San Diego Community Power 2026 Rates
San Diego Community Power presented its 2026 rate adjustments, highlighting increased renewable options and an expanded 10% discount on the PowerBase plan to help residents facing cost-of-living pressures.