The June 3, 2025, meeting of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors focused on public comments regarding the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The session began with a call for in-person attendees, followed by a transition to phone callers who had requested to speak.

The first caller, Consuelo, expressed strong criticism of the budget, arguing that it failed to meet the county's general reserve requirements and accused the board of gambling with the future of the community. She claimed that the budget was not genuinely prioritizing essential services but instead was laying the groundwork for increased surveillance and control under the guise of public health and efficiency. Consuelo urged the supervisors to recognize their responsibility to serve the public rather than impose control.

Following her, Paul Bowd raised concerns about the adequacy of the general reserve, questioning how the budget had passed scrutiny from auditors. He highlighted a significant shortfall in the projected general fund balance, which he stated would not meet the required amount. Bowd criticized the proposed cuts to the capital budget, warning that such reductions could lead to disastrous outcomes, particularly in light of recent emergencies like the January floods.

The final caller, Melinda Keith, shared her perspective as a leader in nonprofit arts and culture programs. She lamented the proposed cuts to funding for these initiatives, emphasizing the tangible harm such reductions would cause to the community.

The meeting underscored significant public concern regarding the county's financial planning and priorities, particularly in relation to essential services and community programs. The Board of Supervisors will need to address these criticisms as they finalize the budget.