National City · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in National City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Police Portable Radios via Federal Grant
A $27,226 federal JAG grant would buy portable radios for the police department's radio communication system, improving officer communication and public safety.
Beer and wine service at new Korean BBQ on Highland Avenue
Nearly all new housing built in National City last year was an accessory dwelling unit — 49 of 51 units. But the city's 2021 ADU rules are now outdated against laws like SB 1211, which allows up to eight detached ADUs on multifamily lots. Updating the code could make it simpler and cheaper for homeowners to build them.
Union Tower affordable apartments completion
The 94-unit Union Tower complex for households earning 30–60% of area median income will hold its ribbon cutting November 10; it includes housing for 24 formerly homeless veterans.
Environmental Policy and Industrial Development
SDSU finished its EPA-funded study of potentially contaminated vacant sites in National City — concentrated on the West Side — and now hopes the city will pursue cleanup grants for city-owned parcels. A new EPA-funded 'BREW' program will train 100 local residents for environmental jobs over five years, starting in January.
Six city-owned development sites
Council asked for more analysis of developer proposals for six city-owned sites back in May; that work is done and the proposals will soon return for a public decision.
Pending ~$7 million encampment resolution grant
The city, county and Chula Vista jointly applied for over $7 million to fund homeless outreach along the I-5 corridor and one street inland; an award decision is pending.
Personnel Change
The firefighters' union president praised the fire department's 2% vacancy rate but warned that HR has cycled through four directors in five years and retention is a citywide problem.