TR Robertson
The Vista Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee began the year 2026 with an abridged meeting Bto start the new year. Government and local agency updates were presented at the Film Hub.
Government Updates
From Congressman Mike Levin’s Office – The federal government once again avoided a government shutdown with new funding measures. The Congressman is working on a variety of bill packages and bi-partisan bills. One such bill is dealing with the rising cost of electricity for small business owners.
From State Senator Catherine Blakespear’s office – The state Senate and Assembly are currently making decisions on bills from last year, which ones to move forward. The Senator is currently dealing with conversations about the state budget and with the Governor’s proposals. One conversation is dealing with Prop 36. Two other bills under consideration are SB 955 and SB 99.
From Assembly Member Laurie Davies Office – Woman of the Year nominations are now underway. The Assembly Member will be hosting a presentation on April 10th aimed at businesses and labor. State resource information is now available in both Spanish and English. Two bills under consideration are a few dealing with E-bikes and AB 1421 dealing with mileage tax.
From County of San Diego, Supervisor Jim Desmond’s Office – The Board is holding budget hearings, and the Supervisor is concerned about spending reserve dollars. His position remains to not raise taxes. The Tijuana River sewage crisis is still a topic of concern and discussion. Providing air purifiers for residents in this area is under consideration. A 16-bed Tri-City Mental Health Facility is now open. Currently 10 people are in care there. A number of grants have been awarded to local agencies.
From the City of Vista – For upcoming City Council meetings – an end of the year wrap up will be held, a discussion about tiny homes, increase sewer charges on property taxes, planning commission, Senior rental discussions, signage for brewery locations and city logo voting are some of the issues that will be discussed in the next few city council meetings. Economics Development Manager interviews are underway. Some movement may be beginning about the New Community Church site and the need to demolish and clean up this area in preparation for future developments.
From the Vista Irrigation District – The VID Scholarship Contest is accepting applications for the Scholarship Awards program and up to six scholarships may be awarded. Email scholarships@vidwater.org or go to www.vidwater.org for more information.
From the Vista Chamber of Commerce – The Internship program applications are underway, and business are encouraged to contact the Chamber about getting involved in the program. It is hoped that 100 students will be selected and placed in various jobs in the city.
The next Government Affairs meeting will be at the Film Humb of March 5th beginning at noon all are welcome
