City of San Diego Retired Employees Association
April Meeting Minutes by Secretary Brad Jacobsen
President Mike Bresnahan reminded members that the parking lot at the War Memorial Building (WMB) is controlled by the Zoo, not the City. Any parking changes by the City in Balboa Park do not apply to the Zoo lot.
He also reported that the REA Board is considering a proposal to hold meetings every two months beginning in 2027, but still at the WMB.
Natasha Collura of SDCERS reported that the COLA was approved by the SDCERS Board.
PROGRAM
The program was Tamera Kohler, CEO of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness. She spoke of the evolution of homelessness – that the homeless are becoming more visible with each generation. She stated that 33% of shelter residents are seniors (55+) with the majority being over 65.
As for the issue of housing, she noted that most new housing in San Diego is long-term rentals; people can no longer rent month-to-month, let alone by the week. In addition, rents are high and the various deposits (first and last month, security) required by landlords make the initial cost of renting impossible. Finally, lease restrictions prohibit additional tenants (ie, family members) who could help with rental costs.
She reported that the county does not have nearly enough beds in treatment facilities for homeless people with mental or physical health needs, and that there are essentially no means to pay for private/personal mental health treatment.
In response to a member’s question, she said that homeless peoples’ pet companions (usually dogs) are often not allowed in shelters because of potential allergy or aggressiveness/protective actions that could lead to lawsuits.