San Bernardino County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Bernardino County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
In-Home Supportive Services provider wage increase
A $1.19-per-hour raise for IHSS providers, submitted to the state for approval. It means better pay for the in-home caregivers who help disabled and elderly residents stay out of institutions.
Termination of Supervisors Executive Aide employment
The Board will vote to end the employment contract of Supervisors Executive Aide I Ashley Cordova effective October 30, 2026 — an item requiring four votes.
ARMC elevator modernization and ED/ICU expansion study
A change order trims $404,714 from the Arrowhead Regional Medical Center elevator project and pushes completion to November 2026, while a new $850,000 Jacobs contract kicks off a feasibility study for expanding the emergency department and ICU.
Loma Linda University hospital revenue bonds (TEFRA hearing)
The Board holds a public hearing on up to $1.89 billion in revenue bonds to finance or refinance health care facility projects for Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children's Hospital. It's tax-exempt bonding facilitation, not county general fund money, but residents get a say in the hearing.
County Executive Performance Evaluations
The Board of Supervisors is conducting scheduled performance reviews for four top county officials, including the Chief Executive Officer and County Counsel. These evaluations help ensure administrative accountability and oversight in county operations.
LAFCO Barstow reorganization and tax sharing
The Board adopted the property tax revenue resolution for the LAFCO reorganization tied to the Barstow International Gateway rail project — annexations to Barstow, its fire district, and Odessa Water District, with detachments from county fire zones. Barstow officials praised the collaboration.
Property Tax Rate Resolution
The Board adopted the annual 1% countywide property tax rate, clarifying that funds support vital local services like schools and public safety rather than solely county government.
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Recommended County Budget
County financial leaders presented a cautious outlook for the upcoming fiscal year due to slowing property tax growth and potential federal funding risks from HR 1. While the county remains fiscally healthy, officials are planning for slower revenue growth and monitoring labor negotiations.
Auditor-Controller Independent Legal Counsel Request
Multiple public commenters and supervisors raised concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest involving Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector Ensen Mason operating a private financial advisory firm while managing the county's $12 billion investment pool. The board directed the CEO and County Counsel to investigate the allegations and review investment authority delegation options.