San Diego City Council to Decide on Contested Historic Preservation Reforms Today

City Council to Hold Final Vote on Preservation and Progress Package

The San Diego City Council is scheduled to meet today, Tuesday, March 10, 2026, for a high-profile session that includes a final vote on the controversial "Preservation and Progress Package A." The meeting, which begins its primary legislative session at 10:00 a.m., will address several key issues, but none have drawn as much public scrutiny as the proposed reforms to the city’s historic preservation guidelines.

The centerpiece of today's agenda is Item 55, which involves the second reading and official vote on the Preservation and Progress Package A. This package has sparked intense debate between housing developers and local preservationists. If passed, the reforms would provide developers with increased flexibility when dealing with older structures and designated historic districts. Proponents argue these changes are necessary to streamline the production of new housing and address the regional housing shortage. However, opponents—particularly residents of Ocean Beach—fear the move will lead to the dismantling of the neighborhood’s unique architectural character and the "emerging OB Historical District."

During a previous hearing on February 24, the council voted 5-1 in favor of the package, though Councilmembers Raul Campillo, Marni von Wilpert, and Sean Elo-Rivera were noted as absent for that specific vote. Their participation in today’s final reading is expected to be a major factor in the final outcome. The afternoon session, starting at 2:00 p.m., will continue these discussions and include a joint meeting with the San Diego Housing Authority to review related residential project approvals and funding for affordable housing initiatives.

Evening Session and Board of Supervisors Activity

In addition to the morning and afternoon sessions, the City Council has scheduled an evening session beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the City Administration Building. This extended schedule is intended to allow for further public testimony on municipal planning and ensure that residents who work during the day have an opportunity to address the council directly on Item 55 and other municipal matters.

Parallel to the activities at City Hall, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors will be conducting its own General Legislative Session starting at 9:00 a.m. at the County Administration Center on Pacific Highway. Key activities for the Board today include:

• Review of the general legislative agenda and priorities for the remainder of the 2026 fiscal cycle.
• Departmental updates regarding public safety and the performance of emergency medical response teams.
• Public testimony sessions regarding county-wide land use policies and environmental protections.

Residents wishing to participate in today's meetings can attend in person at the City Administration Building or the County Administration Center. Both the City and County will also provide live broadcasts and remote participation options via their official websites and public access television channels.