Board authorizes framework to use ‘unlocked reserves’ for emergencies; Desmond objects to process

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted to direct the county administrative officer to coordinate with the fiscal ad hoc subcommittee and develop a public, transparent framework for the use of previously identified "unlocked reserves," moving the policy from a conceptual change to an operational process.

Supporters said aligning unlocked‑reserve expenditures with quarterly budget adjustments will allow the county to deploy one‑time funds to address urgent local needs — including infrastructure failures, public‑health emergencies, and gaps arising from federal and state funding cuts — while maintaining public oversight through the budget cycle.

In debate, supervisors described possible priorities that could be recommended under the framework. The fiscal sponsor cited potential near‑term uses, including infrastructure interventions tied to the Tijuana River pollution crisis and targeted stabilization funds to cover gaps in Medi‑Cal and CalFresh access. The sponsor told the board the approach would not turn reserves into routine spending but would allow an orderly, deliberative process during quarterly budget adjustments.

Supervisor Desmond said reserves should remain for true emergencies and criticized the ad hoc subcommittee process, arguing that two supervisors operating outside full‑board public meetings risked “cooking” budget proposals. He warned against using one‑time reserves for ongoing programs and recorded his opposition to the motion. The motion carried with Desmond voting no; other supervisors present voted yes.

The CAO was directed to return with a framework and recommendations during the quarterly budget adjustment cycle and to coordinate public review and reporting consistent with the county's budget calendar.

Next steps will include CAO coordination with the ad hoc subcommittee and public budget hearings ahead of March and May quarterly budget adjustments.