San Diego, January 29, 2026
San Diego County Supervisors Terra Lawson-Remer and Monica Montgomery Steppe have introduced a proposal to phase out outdated communication technologies. This initiative aims to save taxpayers up to $7 million annually by transitioning to more efficient software-based solutions. Key changes include retiring legacy phone systems, consolidating phone lines, and phasing out fax machines while ensuring public access to county services remains intact. The proposal is set for a vote at the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting.
San Diego County Supervisors Propose $7 Million Annual Savings by Phasing Out Outdated Communication Technology
San Diego, CA – In a move aimed at modernizing county operations and addressing anticipated federal funding cuts, San Diego County Supervisors Terra Lawson-Remer and Monica Montgomery Steppe have introduced a proposal to eliminate outdated communication technologies, potentially saving taxpayers up to $7 million annually.
Proposal Details
The supervisors’ plan focuses on transitioning from traditional communication methods to more efficient, software-based solutions. Key components of the proposal include:
- Retiring Legacy Phone Systems: Replacing the county’s existing fixed-cost phone platform with software-based “soft phones” to reduce maintenance expenses.
- Consolidating Phone Lines: Limiting county staff to a single phone line to streamline communication and cut costs.
- Phasing Out Fax Machines: Gradually discontinuing the use of physical fax machines, which have become less common in modern communication.
These changes aim to maintain public access to county services while enhancing operational efficiency. Exceptions will be made where legacy systems are necessary to ensure reliable service delivery.
Context and Rationale
This initiative responds to significant cuts in federal funding, which are expected to impact essential county programs. By modernizing communication infrastructure, the county seeks to redirect millions of dollars back into community services, mitigating the effects of reduced federal support.
The proposal is scheduled for a vote at the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting. If approved, the county will begin implementing these changes, with staff training and system transitions planned in the coming months.
Implications for San Diego Residents
Residents can anticipate continued access to county services without disruption. The modernization effort is designed to improve service delivery and ensure that taxpayer funds are used more effectively, aligning with the county’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and community well-being.
Related Developments
In related news, a coalition of labor and advocacy groups is pursuing a proposed half-cent countywide sales tax increase for the November 2026 ballot. This measure aims to raise approximately $360 million annually for services including public safety, healthcare, and child care. The county is also facing a projected $300 million annual shortfall due to federal cuts, prompting further discussions on revenue generation and budget management.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the proposed change in San Diego County’s communication technology?
- The proposal involves replacing outdated communication systems, such as legacy phone platforms and fax machines, with modern, software-based solutions to improve efficiency and save costs.
- How much does the county expect to save annually with this change?
- The county anticipates saving up to $7 million each year by implementing the proposed communication upgrades.
- Why is the county making these changes?
- The changes aim to address significant cuts in federal funding and to modernize operations, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used more effectively.
- Will these changes affect public access to county services?
- No, the county plans to maintain public access to services without disruption during the transition to new communication technologies.
- When will the Board of Supervisors vote on this proposal?
- The proposal is scheduled for a vote at the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting. Specific dates will be announced on the county’s official website.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Proposal Overview | Modernize county communication systems by replacing legacy phone platforms and fax machines with software-based solutions. |
| Estimated Savings | Up to $7 million annually. |
| Implementation Timeline | Proposal scheduled for a vote at the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting; implementation to follow upon approval. |
| Impact on Public Services | No disruption to public access; services will remain accessible during the transition. |
| Related Financial Challenges | County facing a projected $300 million annual shortfall due to federal funding cuts. |
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