📰 NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

San Diego minimum wage up to $17.75/hr

The minimum wage in the City of San Diego will increase to $17.75 per hour effective January 1, 2026, raising from last year’s rate of $17.25 per hour, according to the city’s Earned Sick Leave and Minimum Wage ordinance. This rate is higher than the new California state minimum wage of $16.90 per hour, which also begins in 2026.

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

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.

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.

HUGE Update for Midway Redevelopment

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. 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? Read this article

San Diego’s Biggest Apartment Complex of the Year Opens in San Marcos

San Marcos’ 222 North City complex opened to renters on December 30th, narrowly becoming the largest apartment building in San Diego County to open this year. It has 458 units, ranging from studios to four-bedrooms.The amenities leave nothing to be desired, with a resort-style heated pool and sun deck with cabanas, a resident lounge, gallery art adorning the common areas, a coworking lounge with internet and conference rooms, a two story fitness center, a game room, two clubhouses for resident events and community connection, a fourth-floor outdoor retreat space with a large screen tv for watch parties and movie nights, a fully equipped al fresco kitchen with outdoor dining, and a pet spa… it may be worth the high price tag.

Real estate tracker CoStar said average monthly rent for a studio is $2,768; for a one-bedroom, $3,166; and for a two-bedroom, $4,556, and three-bedrooms start at $5800. The single four-bedroom unit has already been rented. 

Want to learn more? Check out their website

🥢 Restaurant of the Week: Matsu

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.

Check out their website here!

💬 Thinking About a Move? Just Curious? I’ve Got You.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or just want a quick pulse check on your home’s value, reach out any time. I’m always happy to help make sense of this market and plan your next step … And your referrals are always appreciated!

 Feel free to give me a call 760.807.7113 or just click here to send me an email: [email protected]

Best,

NS