EL CAJON STATE OF CITY ADDRESS TOUTS REVITALIZATION

By Bransen P. Harper

 

Photos courtesy: City of El Cajon screenshots

 

March 11, 2024 (El Cajon) -- In his State of the City address on February 7, El Cajon Mayor Bill Wells outlined his major plans for growth in a city that has been plagued by several issues related to the post-recovery period of Covid and the homelessness epidemic. 

 

In an untraditional display of ingenuity, Mayor Wells opted for a video with narration that showcased the tremendous upswing of growth that the city has endured within the last couple of years.  The video included each Councilmember speaking out on key issues.

 

New public events such as ‘Foodie Fest,’ have showcased the need to represent the very diverse nature of El Cajon with different food options and live music to boot. First responders also held a public gathering, where locals got to see demonstrations of a variety of activities such as fitness competitions and canine operations.

 

There have also been recent developments for a “Digital leap forward,” by incorporating social media and public websites such as the new MyElCajon app, which helps residents report on potholes and other necessary repairs across the city. 

 

In one segment, Mayor Wells touted his recent accomplishments such as new development, businesses and housing that is popping up around all sectors of the city. Much of these new developments have been funded through incentivizing private investment, thereby improving the areas that suffer from urban blight. 

 

Recent efforts have resulted in the disbanding of homeless encampments on the streets and remaining vigilant about keeping the public roads clean from now-on. More money has been used to fund treatment facilities for drug abuse and addiction. The Mayor also touted the many accomplishments of the fully-staffed police department, which he stated has become a “beacon for many other police departments in the region.”

 

Councilwoman Michelle Metschel has vowed to provide transparency for the homelessness epidemic, as many locals of both El Cajon and greater San Diego have all wondered where the millions of funds have been going despite the critical exacerbation of the issue. 

 

The councilwoman also stated the list of recent developments in Wells Park such as brand new bathrooms, basketball courts and soccer pitch. Plans have also been initiated for an upcoming pickleball court as well. Councilwoman Metschel states that new developments like these help residents provide enjoyment and have “reduced crime by 17%.”

 

Councilman Phil Ortiz declared that the intentions of the city of El Cajon have been to provide necessary support for veterans, with a new veterans’ memorial about to start construction which he hopes will “be one of the best veterans’ memorials in San Diego county.” Plans for the redevelopment of Parkway Plaza are also underway, as a hired consultant is reaching out for a new vision for the future. Councilmember Gary Kendrick has assured ECM that the main mall will remain a retail hub, but redevelopment could include housing where there is excess parking.

 

Another Councilmember, Steve Goble, declared that new initiatives such as “East County Market Nights” will provide an opportunity for residents to engage in a lively atmosphere filled with live music, food trucks, fairs and booths on a weekly basis throughout the year.

 

Towards the end of the stylized video, Councilmember Kendrick discussed efforts to beautify the city, with residents able to engage in civic responsibility by connecting their respective departments through the My El Cajon app; 10% of residents have already done so. 

 

Ultimately, it seems as though the city of El Cajon may be on the upswing as recovery and construction efforts have led to renovation of key aspects across the spectrum, contributing to an overall city revitalization.