My El Cajon Spring 2024

TELE•GRAHAM

In the eloquent words of Lady Bird Johnson, “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.” It’s this sentiment that makes Spring a special time for me, a season when hope seems to blossom along with the vibrant colors of nature. In El Cajon, even in our temperate climate, Spring holds a unique significance. As nature undergoes its annual renewal, I’m reminded of the rejuvenation happening in El Cajon. Private Development Blooming – private development is flourishing, with around eighty projects currently shaping the City’s landscape. From the construction of nearly thirty accessory dwelling units to larger undertakings like housing developments, auto dealerships, and a significant industrial complex at the Weld Business Park, the City is buzzing with progress. Last year alone, building permit activity surged by 62 percent compared to the previous year.

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Parkway Plaza Opportunities – earlier this year, the City planted seeds for revitalization at Parkway Plaza. After a meticulous search for the ideal consultant, the City Council enlisted Hunden Strategic Partners to visualize renewal possibilities and conduct economic analyses on those concepts. Meetings with mall property owners have taken place, and by this Summer, we anticipate reaping the harvest of ideas for Parkway Plaza’s transformation. Despite the economic loss from Walmart’s closure, I’m excited for the renewal opportunities it fuels for Parkway Plaza. Capital Projects All Around Us – the City is investing extensively in infrastructure, committing $25 million to completed projects last year, with an additional $7 million currently under construction. These projects encompass street improvements, nearly 100 new street lights, park renovations, and sewer pipe updates, all aimed at enhancing the community’s well-being. June Bloom of El Cajon – I’m excited to introduce the “June Bloom of El Cajon” contest, a fresh initiative sprouting from this year’s City Council goal-setting workshop. This program aims to celebrate the efforts of gardeners who contribute to the beauty of our neighborhoods through their landscaped creations. (See the article on page ____ for contest details.) Threatening Weather Ahead – despite the positive momentum currently being experienced, challenges loom on the horizon. In 2008, El Cajon voters approved a 1/2 cent sales tax to support essential government operations. This measure is set to expire at the end of 2029. The City faces a potential loss of $13.5 million from its General Fund revenue without this funding. Plans are underway to explore alternatives to either replace the measure or implement significant cuts. Stay in tune for more information and opportunities to share your thoughts with the City about this critical issue. Share your Ideas – as you read this issue of My El Cajon, I encourage you to contemplate ways to enhance our community. Because your input is invaluable, feel free to reach out by phone at (619) 441-1718 or via email at gmitchell@elcajon.gov to share your thoughts. Together, let’s continue working towards making El Cajon an even better place.

City of El Cajon (619) 441-1776 City Attorney (619) 441-1798 City Clerk (619) 441-1763 City Manager (619) 441-1716 Community Development (619) 441-1741 Finance (619) 441-1668 Fire Administration (619) 441-1601 Human Resources (619) 441-1736 Information Technology (619) 441-1535 Parks & Recreation (619) 441-1754 Police Administration (619) 579-3311

- Graham Mitchell, CITY MANAGER

City Council | (619) 441-1788 - Bill Wells, MAYOR - Phil Ortiz, DEPUTY MAYOR - Steve Goble, COUNCILMEMBER - Gary Kendrick, COUNCILMEMBER - Michelle Metschel, COUNCILMEMBER

Emergency | 9-1-1 For medical emergencies, fires, crimes in progress, or life-threatening situations. Non-Emergency

Public Works (619) 441-1653 Reports and Issues (619) 441-1658

- Police: (619) 579-3311 - Fire: (619) 441-1600

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