Assemblymember DeMaio introduces Give San Diego Rural Communities a Voice Act

The Assembly Local Government Committee of the California State Assembly convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 24, known as the Give San Diego Rural Communities a Voice Act. The bill aims to amend the selection process for board seats on the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), the regional transportation agency responsible for managing transportation projects and funding in the area.

Assemblymember DeMaio presented the bill, highlighting concerns regarding the current board composition, which he argued does not adequately represent the interests of rural communities in San Diego County. He noted that SANDAG has faced criticism for mismanagement of funds and for canceling promised road projects, particularly those affecting rural areas. DeMaio emphasized that the unincorporated areas of San Diego County, which house approximately 600,000 residents, have been overlooked in transportation decisions, leading to public safety concerns, especially regarding evacuation routes in high fire-risk areas.

The proposed legislation would modify the current structure by ensuring that one of the two board seats allocated to the San Diego County Board of Supervisors is filled by a representative from the San Diego Association of Planning Groups, which represents unincorporated areas. This change aims to provide a more equitable voice for rural communities in transportation planning.

During the meeting, committee members expressed support for the bill's intent but raised questions about its implications. Assemblymember Ward sought clarification on the appointment process for the proposed representative and the perceived inequities in the current voting structure. DeMaio explained that the existing system allows for a weighted vote, which has led to concerns that larger cities dominate decision-making, sidelining rural interests.

The committee did not hear any opposition to the bill during the meeting, and no witnesses were called to speak against it. However, some members indicated a desire for further local input before proceeding with the legislative change. DeMaio acknowledged the need for balance and reiterated that the bill does not seek to eliminate the Board of Supervisors' representation but rather to enhance rural representation within the existing framework.

The meeting concluded with no formal votes taken, but the discussion underscored the ongoing dialogue about equitable representation in regional transportation governance. The committee will continue to consider the bill and its potential impacts on rural communities in San Diego County.