There’s a lot of buzz about potential ballot measures that would bring San Diego more money, or secure infrastructure dollars for Balboa Park.
But at least one councilmember thinks people should be considering something else: a ballot measure that would reduce the mayor’s power.
“Based on the neglect that I currently see, it seems the most appropriate ballot measure that should be discussed is a strong mayor form of government and potentially going back to a city manager system,” said Councilmember Henry Foster in an interview with Voice of San Diego.
In 2004, voters approved a change in the city’s governance structure from a City Council-Manager form to a strong mayor form of government.
Under this form of government, the mayor is the city’s chief executive officer. The city’s major departments all report to the mayor, who has the power to hire and fire people.
In a weak mayor system, as San Diego previously had, the mayor serves as a member of the City Council and has far less executive power. Department heads all report to a City Manager, who reports to the Council.
Under the strong mayor system, the city has historically had a chief operating officer, or COO, that worked with the mayor to manage the city’s day-to-day operations.
But last year, Mayor Todd Gloria eliminated that position and decided to take on the role. Some councilmembers tried adding that position back in last year’s budget negotiations, but the mayor vetoed their move.
In an interview in July, Gloria said being both mayor and COO gives him “multiple bites at the apple.”
Foster said not moving forward with the COO position was a big disservice to the city.
“Especially in the strong mayor form of government, when you have an individual that doesn’t have operations experience,” he said. “I think it’s the glaring truth at this moment.”