City Council Discusses Property Owner Responsibilities Amid Rising Delinquencies

The San Bernardino City Council meeting on July 16, 2025, focused on several key issues, including property owner responsibilities and community financial concerns.

During the meeting, council members discussed the rising number of delinquent property payments, noting that there were 19,000 parcels affected, which reflects a slight increase from the previous year. This rise is attributed to ongoing financial uncertainty within the community. Council member Ortiz emphasized the importance of communication between renters and property owners, highlighting that property owners are notified of delinquencies, even if the renter is responsible for the payment.

Ortiz encouraged residents facing financial difficulties to reach out to Bertec, the city's financial assistance program, to address their payment issues proactively. He stressed that ignoring bills can lead to larger problems and urged residents to seek help rather than letting their situations worsen.

Following the discussion, the council unanimously approved a motion related to the financial assistance program, demonstrating a commitment to supporting residents during challenging economic times.

The meeting concluded with a statement from the city manager regarding the next agenda item, indicating a smooth transition to further discussions. Overall, the council's focus on community support and financial responsibility reflects its ongoing efforts to address local economic challenges.