La Mesa residents demand action against drug house on Bellflower Drive during city council meeting

Concerns over neighborhood safety took center stage at the La Mesa City Council meeting on December 10, 2024, as residents voiced urgent pleas regarding a problematic property on Bellflower Drive. Local resident Barbie Wheeler highlighted ongoing issues with a house at 4388 Bellflower Drive, which she described as an active drug house attracting dangerous individuals and creating a hostile environment for families in the area.

Wheeler urged the council to investigate the situation, claiming that the property is being used to house individuals struggling with addiction, allegedly facilitated by a man named Richard Evans. She expressed frustration over the lack of action and called for the council to identify the agency responsible for placing these individuals in the neighborhood. "This is not a safe situation for young children and grandchildren on this street," Wheeler stated, emphasizing the need for professional support services rather than merely providing shelter.

The discussion underscored a broader concern about community safety and the responsibilities of local agencies in managing such facilities. Wheeler's passionate appeal resonated with other residents, who echoed her calls for action to restore peace and safety to their neighborhood.

In addition to the safety concerns, the meeting also addressed the results of the recent November General Election. City Clerk Megan Weigelman reported that Measure L, aimed at maintaining essential city services without increasing tax rates, received overwhelming support from voters, passing with 23,073 votes in favor and only 5,284 against. This measure is expected to secure approximately $12 million annually for the city over the next 20 years.

As the meeting progressed, the council welcomed newly elected members, including Lauren Casares, marking a significant transition in local governance. The combination of urgent community issues and the election results set the stage for a pivotal moment in La Mesa's leadership and its approach to neighborhood safety and city services.