Mold Remediation in San Diego, CA

"To put it bluntly, the picture is not rosy," Chief Financial Officer Joan Bracci told the board.

City News Service, News Partner

SAN DIEGO, CA — San Diego County's finances may be in for a difficult few years, in part because of changing revenue streams and federal government policy, county budget officials told the Board of Supervisors Wednesday.

"To put it bluntly, the picture is not rosy," Chief Financial Officer Joan Bracci told the board, adding, "We do not have the funding to respond to all of the funding requests that we are seeing from groups and departments" for fiscal year 2025-26.

She said the county is "seeing a one-time funding gap of $138.5 million, which grows to $321.8 million by fiscal year 2029-30."

"Requests outpace the available resources for the foreseeable future," Bracci said.

After a period of robust growth, "we are starting to see a slow-down in sales tax revenue," something being mirrored statewide, Bracci said.

Find out what's happening in San Diegowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The county has experienced a 5.5 % growth in assessed value for the current fiscal year, with projected growth at 5% in the coming years, Bracci said. The county's general fund has decreased $255.2 million, but can be restored over the next one to three years, Bracci said.

In a statement issued after the board meeting, county officials said they are "looking for opportunities to continue to transform the organization so it remains structurally balanced while providing critical services to our communities to protect public health and safety, promote sustainability and support some of our most vulnerable residents."

Board Chairwoman Nora Vargas said it may be time for officials to review spending priorities, by being prepared but not alarmed.

"I believe this is the time as my dad used to say, `Buckle up, and let's get ready for the ride,"' Vargas said.

A projected $2 billion state budget shortfall can also trickle down to impact the county, she said."We need to look at this budget as one for the next four years, not a budget for a fiscal year," Vargas said. "It's important to think about it from a big-picture perspective."

Vargas said people are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and hurting economically.

She said it's important to ensure government is prudent moving forward.

Vargas said county leaders have created a lot of initiatives in the past four years and asked, "What do we stop doing that we shouldn't be doing any more?"

"In the end, we are the safety net for so many people that otherwise would not get services if it wasn't for us," Vargas said, citing the CalFresh food assistance program as an example.

She suggested that county officials need to consider innovative methods, including better customer service. Board Vice Chair Terra Lawson-Remer said the county should review programs that started 15 or 20 years ago, and now may be outdated.

Lawson-Remer credited the Federal Reserve for managing inflation rates without triggering a recession, as the economy still faces pandemic-related challenges such as supply chain disruptions.When it comes to the role of government, "you can overheat, but you can also underheat," she added.

— City News Service

SAN DIEGO — Make it the full 25 from the Golden State for the No. 23 San Diego State men's basketball team, as Wednesday night's contest against the California Baptist Lancers marks the first meeting between the two programs — the only current DI California side the Aztecs have yet to face — when they tip at 7 p.m. at Viejas Arena.

The Aztecs (6-2) completed their first DI city series sweep with a 74-57 win over University of San Diego on Saturday, Dec. 7 to go with a season-opening 63-58 win over UC San Diego. Nick Boyd led SDSU in scoring for the second time this season, scoring 12 of his 17 points in the second half and dishing a game-best six assists. Production has come from up and down the lineup, as five players have led the Scarlet and Black in scoring for a game thus far this season, with six different single-game rebounding leaders and four who have led in assists for a game.

Pharaoh Compton earned Mountain West Freshman of the Week honors for the second straight week as he combined for 21 points, nine rebounds (four on offense) two steals and a block while making 10 of 13 from the field in the wins over the Toreros and Fresno State. Since the conference began announcing a Freshman of the Week in the 2021-22 season, SDSU had not had a player earn the honor before Compton and Taj DeGourville (who was Freshman of the Week for Nov. 18) this year.

The Lancers (5-4) are 10 days removed from a 74-59 loss to UCF in Orlando, where the Knights forced 19 turnovers and turned it into a 21-8 advantage in second chance scores while also running to a 13-4 edge in fast break points. Senior guard and team leading scorer Dominique Daniels Jr. had 33 points, but CBU had just three other players make multiple field goals and all made just two. The Lancers tied the game at 36-36 3:54 into the second half on a Daniels Jr. triple, but gave up the next 15 points and came no closer than 13 the rest of the way.

Daniels Jr. was a Preseason Coaches All-WAC First Team selection and averages 21.7 points per game to go with 3.1 assists and 1.0 steals — he has put up four of the top 11 single-game Lacers scoring performances in DI history over the last 372 days, with his program-record 39 points coming against Southern Utah on January 20. Senior forward Kendal Coleman is the only other player to average double-digits, scoring 14.0 points per game while making 12 of 21 3-pointers and a team-best 8.8 rebounds.

SDSU has the top effective field goal percentage defense in the country at 41.5 and 12th-best adjusted defensive efficiency at 04.7 points allowed per 100 possessions, according to Bart Torvik's tempo-free stats. The Lancers are 23rd in the country by committing turnovers on just 14.0% of possessions, but rank 276th or lower in effective field goal percentage defense (276), adjusted defensive efficiency (291) and 3-point percentage allowed (314). Currently, the game slates as the Aztecs' third quadrant four game of the season, while CBU has played just two games outside of quadrants three and four — the loss at UCF was a quad two game, with a 79-77 loss to SMU at the Acrisure Holiday Invitational in Palm Springs, Calif. as their only quad one game.

Catch up on coverage leading into Wednesday:

Californians may be eligible to receive a voucher for thousands of dollars to go toward the purchase of an e-bike.

The California E-bike Incentive Project begins accepting applications Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. from under-served community members. Organizers say the goal of the program is to “make environmentally-friendly transportation accessible and affordable to all.”

Vouchers can be applied like a discount at select stores and online retailers. The "base incentive voucher" covers $1,750 at the point of purchase, with an additional $250 available to priority applicants, who demonstrate a financial need based on the Federal Poverty guidelines.

How to qualify

Applicants have to be California residents over the age of 18, able to verify their household income and have to complete an online application. Household income has to be less than $45,180 for individuals, $61,320 for a family of two and $93,600 for a family of four. For full income guidelines, visit the project website.

The online application asks for basic information, requires that applicants upload forms to verify their qualifications for the program and provides applicants with two training videos. E-bike riding hopefuls who are approved will get an email with information about how much their voucher is for, its expiration date and a voucher code.

People whose applications are denied will also get an email either detailing instructions on how to resubmit, or information on why they are ineligible/

Purchasing an e-bike

Vouchers are valid at 386 brick-and-mortar and online retailers in California. A number of e-bike requirements are necessary for purchase: The bike must be new, for example, and be fully assembled and come with a minimum 1-year warranty on its electrical components.

Buyers should take their lifestyle needs into account in order to get the most out of their e-bike. With a number of “classes” available, e-bike designs vary to accommodate a range of user needs. According to the project website, “A Class 1 e-bike, also known as a pedelec, relies on pedaling to propel forward,” while “Class 2 e-bikes offer both pedal assist and throttle assist, allowing them to move forward even without pedaling.” Class 3 e-bikes reach higher speeds, according to the website

About the incentive project

The goal is to incentivize e-bike usage and increase access to e-bikes. The initiative is “intended to encourage the adoption for low-income individuals of e-bikes as a replacement for motor vehicle trips while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”

The California E-bike Incentive Project is partnered with California Air Resources Board and San Diego-based non-profit Pedal Ahead. The project is also a part of California Climate Investments, which “puts billions of dollars of cap-and-trade auction proceeds to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, improving public health and the environment, and providing meaningful benefits to the most disadvantaged communities and low-income communities and households,” according to the climate investments website.

The college basketball season continues on Wednesday with a matchup between CA Baptist and California. It's time to continue our College Basketball odds series with a CA Baptist-San Diego State prediction and pick.

California Baptist faces a daunting challenge against #23 San Diego State at Viejas Arena on Wednesday. The Lancers, led by star guard Dominique Daniels Jr. (averaging 21.7 points per game), will attempt to secure their first-ever ranked win in the DI era. San Diego State boasts the nation's top field goal percentage defense, allowing just 34.6% shooting and blocking 7.0 shots per game. The Aztecs, coming off impressive wins against Houston and Creighton, feature a nearly rebuilt roster with transfers Nick Boyd, Wayne McKinney III, and Jared Coleman-Jones. With San Diego State's defensive prowess and home-court advantage, California Baptist faces a significant uphill battle in this high-stakes matchup.

Here are the CA Baptist-San Diego State College Basketball Odds, courtesy of FanDuel

College Basketball Odds: CA Baptist-San Diego State Odds

CA Baptist: +14.5 (-110)

Moneyline: +920

San Diego State: -14.5 (-110)

Moneyline: -1800

Over: 135.5 (-115)

Under: 135.5 (-105)

How to Watch CA Baptist vs. San Diego State

Time: 10:00 PM ET/7:00 PM PT

TV: Mountain West Network

Stream: fuboTV (Free Trial)

Why CA Baptist Will Cover The Spread/Win

California Baptist has a compelling case to upset San Diego State in their upcoming matchup, driven by their offensive capabilities and recent performances. The Lancers have demonstrated resilience and scoring depth, with Daniels Jr. leading the charge at 21.7 points per game. Daniels' ability to score efficiently, despite shooting 38.6% from the field, provides a consistent offensive threat that can challenge San Diego State's defense. Additionally, California Baptist's recent games, such as their narrow 79-77 loss to SMU, highlight their ability to compete against strong opponents, with Kendal Coleman scoring a career-high 32 points in that contest.

Moreover, California Baptist's versatility and adaptability on the court could be pivotal against San Diego State. The Lancers have shown they can adjust their game plan effectively, as seen in their overtime victory against Fresno State and their high-scoring win over LIU. Their ability to capitalize on fast-break opportunities and score in the paint will be crucial in exploiting any defensive lapses by San Diego State. If California Baptist can maintain their offensive rhythm and tighten their defense, they stand a strong chance of pulling off an upset against the Aztecs, leveraging their recent momentum and strategic playmaking.

Why San Diego State Will Cover The Spread/Win

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San Diego State is primed to dominate California Baptist in their upcoming matchup, leveraging their exceptional defensive prowess and strategic depth. The Aztecs lead the entire NCAA in field goal percentage defense, allowing opponents to shoot just 34.6% per game, a statistic that will pose significant challenges for California Baptist's offense. With players like Nick Boyd, who is averaging 12.6 points per game, and emerging talents like Miles Byrd and BJ Davis, San Diego State boasts a versatile lineup capable of disrupting the Lancers' game plan.

Furthermore, the Aztecs' recent success, including a Final Four appearance and National Championship berth in 2023, demonstrates their ability to perform under pressure. Their defensive intensity is further amplified by ranking second nationally with 7.0 blocks per game, led by redshirt freshman Magoon Gwath, who averages 3.4 blocks per game. Coach Brian Dutcher's system has consistently produced competitive teams, and this season is no exception. With a nearly rebuilt roster featuring three players averaging over 12 points per game and a commitment to defensive excellence, San Diego State is well-positioned to overwhelm California Baptist and secure a decisive victory.

Final CA Baptist-San Diego State Prediction & Pick

San Diego State, ranked No. 23, is favored to defeat California Baptist in their upcoming matchup, thanks to their balanced offensive attack and formidable home-court advantage. The Aztecs, with a 6-2 record, have shown resilience against top-tier opponents, securing wins over then-No. 21 Creighton and then-No. 6 Houston. Their depth is a significant asset, as highlighted by coach Brian Dutcher's ability to rely on multiple players to step up in crucial moments. Nick Boyd, leading the team with 12.6 points per game, exemplifies this depth alongside Miles Byrd and BJ Davis.

California Baptist faces a tough challenge, especially given their recent inconsistency and reliance on Dominique Daniels Jr., who averages 21.7 points per game. While Daniels is a formidable scorer, the Lancers' supporting cast has struggled to provide consistent offense, as seen in their loss to UCF where no other player scored more than six points. San Diego State's defense, which excels at limiting opponents' shooting percentages, will likely focus on containing Daniels to disrupt Cal Baptist's rhythm. With their strong home performance and strategic depth, San Diego State is well-positioned to cover the -14.5 spread and secure a decisive victory against the Lancers.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Western Window Systems, part of the MITER Brands portfolio and a leader in designing modern windows and doors that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, recently unveiled its new design studio in San Diego, California, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Located at 8990 Miramar Road, STE 270 in San Diego, the new design studio will serve as a collaborative hub for architects at any stage of their projects. With access to the latest tools, product samples, and knowledgeable staff, architects will have everything they need to bring a project to life, whether a high-end custom home or a multi-family project.

“This design studio is a true reflection of our dedication to excellence, creativity, and exceptional service,” said Brian Leizerowicz, Vice President of Sales for Western Window Systems. “It’s more than a showroom — it’s a vibrant hub of inspiration, collaboration, and innovation where design ideas take shape. Whether you’re exploring products, working on projects, or seeking cutting-edge solutions, this space is thoughtfully designed to make the experience effortless and inspiring.”

The new space features many Western Window Systems products, including popular options such as the Classic Series 300 Minimalist Multi-Slide Door, Classic Series 600 Multi-Slide Pocket Door, Classic Series 9550 Bi-Fold Door, and Performance Series 7980 Pivot Door.

Additionally, the new Series 8000 Vantage Line is showcased in the design studio, marking a milestone moment for Western Window Systems.

“The Series 8000 showcases the best of what we do, blending ultra-thin sightlines, advanced thermal break technology, and exceptional performance,” said Kevin Vilhauer, Vice President of Engineering for the Western Division. “This line sets a new standard for what is possible in modern windows and doors, offering architects and builders a versatile solution that meets the demands of contemporary projects. We couldn’t think of a better way to introduce the Series 8000 to this market than here in this incredible new space.”

The Series 8000 Vantage Line launched earlier this year with four key products: the Series 8630 Fixed Window/Window Wall, the Series 8660 Awning Window, the Series 8665 Pass-Through Awning Window, and the Series 8670 Casement Window. Three of those products are currently on display in the design studio, and the Series 8660 Awning Window will be added to the space in early 2025.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, December 5, to commemorate the occasion. The crowd of more than 80 business partners and community leaders heard from Western Window Systems representatives Brian Leizerowicz, Kevin Vilhauer, and Ty Cranford, Senior Director of Architectural Sales, as well as Chris Thorne, CEO of the North San Diego Business Chamber.

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees had the opportunity to tour the design studio, network with industry professionals, enjoy food and drinks from local food trucks, and ask questions about the products and functionality of the space.

To view a list of products available in the space or to learn more, visit westernwindowsystems.com/design-studios/san-diego/.

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About Western Window Systems

Western Window Systems, part of the MITER Brands portfolio, designs and manufactures moving glass walls and windows that bring indoor and outdoor spaces together. Inspired by contemporary living, our high-quality products are available in custom sizes, standardized sets, and massive dimensions for unlimited design possibilities in residential, multi-family, and commercial projects. From superior craftsmanship and timeless design to exceptional customer service, Western Window Systems is a preferred choice of architects, builders, and homeowners throughout North America. For additional information, visit www.westernwindowsystems.com.

About MITER Brands

Founded in 1947, MITER Brands is a residential window and door manufacturer that produces a portfolio of window and door brands for the new construction and replacement segments with an owner-operated, family-first approach. With more than 20 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States, MITER Brands is a nationwide supplier of precision-built and energy-efficient products. Through optimized manufacturing, valued relationships, and dedicated team members coast to coast, MITER Brands instills confidence and drives quality customer experiences.

For more information, visit www.miterbrands.com.

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[Photo 1 attached: Ty Cranford, Western Window Systems’ Senior Director of Architectural Sales, cuts the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening of the new San Diego Design Studio]

MITER Brands Contact

Media Relations

Tyler Stover, Sr. Communications Specialist

TStover@PGTIndustries.com

941-480-1600