Beachgoers could see commercial advertisements on the sides of lifeguard stands if the concept is approved as a way to raise money for the city. Photo by Paul Hansen

Potential plans to sell advertising space on public beaches have left a divided community in their wake, with some welcoming additional sources of revenue as the city’s budget woes worsen and some fearing that the move borders on desperation.

                                        

Benjamin Nicholls

Community not buying Partnership’s promise for results

In the June 25 edition of San Diego Uptown News, Uptown Partnership’s executive director and two board members shared their thoughts about the May grand jury report that alleged the organization’s leadership mismanaged city funds and lost their vision for the future of the parking district. For this issue, Senior Editor Christy Scannell talked with community leaders about their ideas for the parking district, which includes Mission Hills, Hillcrest, Bankers Hill/Park West and Five Points.

When Benjamin Nicholls was named executive director of the Hillcrest Business Improvement Association early last year, one of the first items on his agenda was a report on Hillcrest’s parking situation. In a memo to Uptown Partnership, he suggested how reserve funds should be spent and outlined several projects his members wanted the Partnership to prioritize, including a parking validation program.

                                        

Bicycle riders, many dressed in festive accessories, celebrate the nation's birthday on July 4 as they ride down the beach boardwalk. Photo by Paul Hansen

City officials estimated approximately 1 million people paid local beaches a visit over the July 4 holiday weekend, less than last year in part due to cloudy weather along the coast. Those who did hit the sand were relatively well behaved, as the weekend passed without any major incidents.

“Despite the large crowds at the beaches, bays, parks and entertainment districts, there were no significant incidents and the weekend proved to be a safe and enjoyable one for visitors and residents alike,” said San Diego Police Department (SDPD) Northern Division Capt. Chris Ball.

                                        

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