San Diego County residents will have several chances over the next few weeks to weigh in on the county's $9.15 billion recommended budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, according to East County Magazine.

The county released the proposed spending plan May 18. East County Magazine reported that the budget is 6% higher than the current year and is aimed at maintaining core services while responding to state and federal funding uncertainty.

Public input opportunities include a virtual meeting from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, and an in-person open house from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at the County Operations Center, 5520 Overland Ave. in San Diego. The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to open its formal budget hearing at 5 p.m. Monday, June 1, at the County Administration Center, 1600 Pacific Highway.

For Santee residents, the county budget matters beyond city hall because county programs touch public health, behavioral health, justice services, regional planning and services for unincorporated areas around East County. Residents can register for meetings, request language or accessibility assistance, and submit public comments through June 12 through the county's Engage San Diego County portal.

Source: East County Magazine — https://eastcountymagazine.org/county-unveils-9-1b-budget-plan-public-input-sessions-coming/