📰 News Highlights

Governor Newsom plans to crack down on corporate landlords, blaming them for housing crisis

Earlier today, Governor Gavin Newsom delivered his final State of the State address before a joint session of the state legislature. He reaffirmed that California is the embodiment of democracy and an economic powerhouse, reminding the legislature of its responsibility to protect and serve the people of the state. This included actively resisting federal interference while also making significant investments in job creation, education, affordability, climate initiatives, and recovery efforts for areas affected by last winter’s fires.

He said, “the one issue that impacts more things, in more ways, on more days, is the cost of housing, California’s original sin. For decades, the story of California housing reforms was one of delay and denial. That said, we got to work in 2019, passing the strongest statewide renter protections in America. And the past few years, we have enshrined the most consequential housing reforms in our state’s history. Just last year alone, I was proud to sign 61 housing reform bills, clearing regulatory thickets, forcing local governments - often resistant - to get in the game, and modernizing environmental review. But we have work to do… and there is another urgent area requiring our attention. That’s institutional investors snatching up homes by the hundreds and thousands at a time, crushing the dream of home ownership, and forcing rents too damn high for everyone else. It’s shameful that we allow private equity firms in Manhattan to become the biggest landlords in many of our cities. Over the next few weeks, we will work with the Legislature to combat this monopolistic behavior, strengthen accountability, and level the playing field for working families. That means more oversight and enforcement, and potentially changing the state tax code to make this work.” 

See his full statement here.

City Council members push to pause or repeal paid parking at Balboa Park

Paid parking at Balboa Park is facing significant opposition, resulting in vandalism just days after its implementation. Parking kiosks and meters have been targeted with a blocking paste, rendering card readers, coin slots, and receipt dispensers completely unusable.

The growing backlash, especially from city residents, has prompted some City Councilmembers to call for a pause or outright repeal of the new fees. Critics argue the rollout was rushed and disproportionately impacts low-income residents, noting that the park was previously a free public space. Many families must now account for parking costs when planning a visit.

City Council members Kent Lee and Sean Elo-Rivera, once supportive of these fees,  have now urged Mayor Todd Gloria to halt the charges for city residents. In a critical memo, they labeled the launch "haphazard" and insisted residents should not be used as "guinea pigs" for testing the system. Councilmember Stephen Whitburn, whose district includes the park, has gone further, advocating for a complete repeal of paid parking for all visitors, residents and non-residents alike.

Want more information? Check out this article.

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🎬 Reel Recap + Real Details

Midway update

Last week, the Supreme Court of California officially denied the city of San Diego’s petition for review of a previous ruling made by the appellate court. This ruling ultimately determined that the city had acted illegally by permitting residents to vote on a measure without providing them with sufficient information about the potential environmental impacts that could arise from the construction of taller buildings. This requirement for adequate information is mandated by California’s Environmental Quality Act, commonly referred to as CEQA. The appellate court's decision highlighted the importance of transparency and informed decision-making in matters that could significantly affect the environment and the community.

Want to learn more? Watch our reel or read this article

​​Your Guide to Weekend Fun ✨

Oddities and Curiosities Expo in Del Mar

For lovers of the strange, unusual, and bizarre… this eclectic expo has taxidermy workshops, skulls for sale, and features hundreds of vendors, artists, and small businesses with lots of odd crafts. A definite change of pace for the regular vibe of Del Mar, this will be one you won’t want to miss!

Get your tickets here

Looking for more things to do this month? Check out our post 

Local Eats and Coffee Shops ❤️ 

☕ Coffee Shop of the Week: Rose Hill Purveyors

📍 Cardiff | 111 Chesterfield Dr #115

This cute shop has plants and funky art galore, with simple (yet delicious and perfectly crafted) drinks. Located just steps from the beach, this is a perfect place to stop to pick up a yummy tea or cappuccino before a peaceful morning beach stroll.

Check out their website here

🍴 Restaurant of the Week: Matsu

📍 Oceanside | 626 S Tremont St

Named for a Japanese pine, Matsu is an intimate dining establishment that offers a unique culinary experience in a cozy setting with just 48 seats. The restaurant is known for its dynamic and frequently changing menu, which keeps guests coming back for new and exciting flavors. Diners have the option to either select one dish from each of the four thoughtfully curated sections on the menu, allowing them to tailor their meal to their personal preferences, or they can opt for the omakase experience. This option features eight or more smaller courses, each meticulously crafted and presented in the chef’s whim style, offering a journey through a variety of tastes and textures.

For those who appreciate a well-paired beverage with their meal, Matsu offers wine pairings that complement both menu formats, available at an additional cost. If one thing is clear, it’s that chef William Eick is working on bringing a Michelin Star home to Oceanside in the near future. Check it out before it’s recognized!

Check out their website here!

📺 What’s Changing and What You Should Know about SD

The San Diego Housing Market is Splitting in Two

San Diego's luxury market is on fire, but the rest is a tale of two cities. Coastal areas are thriving, while some inland neighborhoods see price drops of over 20%. Discover the split market and where the opportunities are before the spring rush.

Why San Diego is Becoming the Innovation Capital of California

San Diego has transformed from a military and tourism town to an innovation powerhouse, cracking the top 10 startup ecosystems in America. Discover the key industries driving the region's $315 billion GDP, the neighborhoods attracting high-wage workers, and what it really means if you're thinking about relocating to this unique coastal metro.

🔍 Search Homes for Sale in North County
Start your search here: Explore Listings 

Want to learn more or feature your home?
Reach out to Bern for personalized support, market insights, or to get your home listed and seen. 📧 Email Bern Today: [email protected]

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