Scott Lewis

3 weeks ago | voiceofsandiego.org | Scott Lewis

It was a big deal when they opened it. But the future of a Midway District homeless shelter that both the city and the county financially supported is uncertain after Mayor Todd Gloria released his revised budget Wednesday. Gloria opted against adding back nearly $5 million in operating cash for the Alpha Project shelter that serves many residents with behavioral health conditions. He is demanding the county pay for it. He says the county has failed to invest adequately in treatment and beds.

1 month ago | voiceofsandiego.org | Scott Lewis

San Diego’s water world is very happening right now. As our Scott Lewis reported, San Diego County Water Authority is facing an existential crisis. The high cost of water has one of the water supplier’s most powerful members — the city of San Diego — has leaders who are wondering if it’s time to do something drastic to the Water Authority. But the city of San Diego has controlled the Water Authority for decades.

1 month ago | voiceofsandiego.org | Scott Lewis

Bob Filner, the indefatigable politician who served as a member of congress and then mayor of San Diego before accusations of sexual assault and harassment forced him from office, died April 20. As a young activist, Filner landed in jail while participating in actions with the Freedom Riders, including former U.S. Rep. John Lewis.

1 month ago | voiceofsandiego.org | Scott Lewis

I have a special podcast interview scheduled next week with Daniel Denham, the general manager of the San Diego County Water Authority. It could not come at a better time. This week, San Diego City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera said it may be time for the city to begin discussing leaving or dissolving the Water Authority.

2 months ago | voiceofsandiego.org | Scott Lewis

The city of San Diego is going to raise hotel room taxes in May. The money was supposed to fund an expansion to the Convention Center, but that isn’t happening anymore. Anyone staying in a hotel in San Diego will soon see a higher tax on their bills. The tax ranges depending on how close to downtown you are, from 11.75% to 13.75%. So for example, if you’re staying in a downtown hotel and your room costs $250 a night, you’d see an extra $34 a night on your bill.