San Diego council unanimously adopts FY2026 Business Improvement District budgets

San Diego City Council on Monday unanimously approved staff recommendations for the fiscal year 2026 Business Improvement District (BID) budgets, a set of assessments and contracts that support neighborhood business services.

Sean, identified in the record as a small‑business engagement specialist in the Economic Development Department, told the council the city expects to collect roughly $1,500,000 in assessments from about 12,000 businesses to fund marketing, technical assistance and other BID programs. He described the funds as contracted to nonprofit business associations that carry out on‑the‑ground services.

During council questions, members pressed staff on carry‑forwards, vendor selection and the scale of services in individual districts. Several public commenters urged the council to consider short‑term rental contributions as an additional revenue source and asked for fuller notice and more opportunities for public input.

Council Member Campillo moved the staff recommendation, and Council Member Whitburn seconded. The clerk called the roll and the motion passed unanimously.

The approval authorizes the department to proceed with the budgeted assessments and to execute the budget allocations detailed in the staff report. The council confirmed the item will proceed as outlined by staff; no amendments were adopted.

Council materials and staff presentations are available with the official minutes; staff said they will continue outreach to merchant associations and volunteers who manage BID programs.