San Bernardino residents raise budget concerns at city council meeting

In the heart of San Bernardino, a city once grappling with bankruptcy, the atmosphere in the council chamber was charged with a mix of hope and concern as community members voiced their thoughts during a recent city council meeting. The discussions, held on June 5, 2025, highlighted both the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead for the city.

Allen Stanley, owner of the Enterprise Building, opened the public comments with a commendation for the city’s leadership, noting the increase in city staff from 650 to over 900. “Kudos,” he said, acknowledging the strides made since the city’s financial struggles. However, he raised a critical issue regarding the rising litigation costs, urging the council to seek better legal representation. “Litigation expenses are budgeted to be 10% of your general budget. No. Don’t. Get a better lawyer,” he insisted, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in city spending.

Following Stanley, Georgia, another resident, expressed her alarm over the proposed budget, describing it as unsustainable and a “band-aid on a hemorrhaging city.” She pointed out that the city was relying on one-time fund transfers and dipping into reserves, warning that such practices could lead to another bankruptcy. “If you adopt this budget as is without accountability... then you’ve officially given up the right to call this leadership,” she stated, echoing the sentiments of many who fear for the city’s financial future.

The meeting also featured voices of support for the council, with John Shellenberger praising Mayor Tran and Treasurer Ortiz for their commitment to the community. He highlighted their efforts to improve the city’s image, which has often been marred by negative publicity. “San Bernardino has such a bad reputation for the wrong reasons,” he lamented, while also expressing optimism about ongoing community projects.

Sarah R. and Faye Aldrich added to the dialogue, with Sarah advocating for capital improvement projects and the cleanup of homeless encampments, while Faye celebrated the positive impact of community art initiatives. Aldrich shared how a mural project had transformed a problematic area, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among residents.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that while there is a shared commitment to improving San Bernardino, significant concerns about fiscal responsibility and community welfare remain. The discussions underscored a pivotal moment for the city, where the balance between progress and accountability will shape its future. The council faces the challenge of addressing these concerns while continuing to foster the growth and revitalization that residents so desperately seek.