Politifest 2023, hosted in San Diego, served as a dynamic forum for regional discourse on two of the most pressing crises facing Southern California: the deepening housing emergency and looming threats to the region’s water supply. This year’s summit, organized by the Voice of San Diego, attracted civic leaders, policy advocates, urban planners, and concerned citizens from across the county to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate over these escalating challenges.
Housing Crisis Takes Center Stage
Throughout the week, a range of panels examined the persistent housing affordability problem, with data showing that San Diego remains one of the most expensive housing markets in the United States. Speakers emphasized the effects of skyrocketing rent, restrictive zoning regulations, and a shortage of affordable housing units. City officials and nonprofit leaders highlighted the importance of policy changes that support infill development, remove bureaucratic hurdles for new construction, and provide protections for vulnerable renters.
One panel explored the recent growth in homelessness, particularly among seniors and veterans. Experts urged cities within the county to adopt a coordinated regional response, emphasizing the need for more transitional housing and wraparound support services. Housing advocates called on state lawmakers to expand funding for affordable housing and accelerate implementation of recent legislation aimed at boosting density.
Urgency Around Water Security
The summit also devoted significant attention to water security, as California continues to experience the ripple effects of long-term drought and climate change. Environmental scientists, water utility representatives, and elected officials debated the future of water supply management in the region. Topics included investment in desalination, the expansion of water recycling infrastructure, and cross-border water agreements with Mexico.
Participants raised concerns about both access and affordability. As water agencies seek to modernize infrastructure, the cost burden on ratepayers remains a contentious issue. Some speakers warned that without transparent governance and equitable policies, water scarcity could exacerbate socio-economic divides.
A Call for Regional Unity
A recurring theme across sessions was the necessity for regional cooperation. While housing and water issues often fall under the jurisdiction of individual cities or agencies, several panelists insisted that only unified strategies—across city lines and political boundaries—could yield sustainable results. Attendees called for joint task forces and streamlined regulatory frameworks to better respond to the complex, interlinked nature of these crises.
“Addressing our housing and water issues requires bold action and regional cooperation,” one policy expert stated during a widely attended panel, capturing the tone of the summit.
Politifest 2023 reinforced the urgent need for innovative, collaborative approaches to address two of the most critical challenges facing San Diego’s future—housing affordability and water sustainability. As the conversations continue beyond the summit, the hope is that real policy change will follow.
