La Mesa City Council grapples with housing and parking concerns

Councilmember Laura Lothian criticizing city tactics on parking issues

By Alexander J. Schorr

March 29, 2026 (La Mesa) — The La Mesa City council met on March 24 to try and tackle the “parking crisis” fueled by new housing development in the Downtown Village.

La Mesa is currently facing massive tension over the need for affordable housing and a growing parking crisis in its Downtown Village district. Recent developments have prioritized transit-oriented housing with reduced parking requirements, sparking concerns from local business owners and residents about the long-term impact on the area’s accessibility and economic health.

Sheriff impounds 10 electric motorcycles, issues citations for violations by e-bikes and e-motorcycles in Santee

East County News Service

March 28, 2026 (Santee) -- Deputies from the Santee Sheriff's Station conducted an enforcement operation on Thursday aimed at addressing the growing number of electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric motorcycles (e-motorcycles) being operated in violation of state and local laws within the City of Santee.

El Cajon approves funds for reconstruction of Fletcher Hills Fire Station 7

East County News Service

March 28, 2026 (El Cajon) – Heartland Fire’s station 7 in Fletcher Hills, built in 1960, will soon undergo major renovations. El Cajon’s City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to approve budget revisions for the reconstruction.

Health alert: 2 rabid bats found in Escondido

Officials seeking potential contacts, photo courtesy County of San Diego

East County News Service

March 28, 2026 (Escondido) -- San Diego County public health officials are seeking anyone who may have come into direct physical contact with two wild bats found in separate Escondido locations last weekend.

Both animals have since tested positive for rabies, marking the fourth and fifth confirmed cases of rabid bats in the county this year.

The first infected bat was discovered at about 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, in a grassy area near the White Oak Villas condo complex. The animal was retrieved by the San Diego Humane Society for testing.

Helix Water District electrifies East County

Helix Water District Board Member Joel Scalzitti tells the crowd at the Helix Operations Center on Vernon Way on Friday that the district's new electrification project will be a model for the rest of the county.

Photos and story by Karen Pearlman

March 27, 2026 (El Cajon) – While providing safe drinking water to their 278,000 ratepayers is their main goal, the Helix Water District has put some energy into other public utility needs.

On Friday, the District showed how infrastructure and mandates have led it to expand its portfolio, showing off its $11 million electrification project in El Cajon.

The project on Vernon Way is designed to power Helix's fleet for the next 50 to 60 years -- and acts as a pioneer for the region with a replicable success story for municipalities navigating the transition to zero-emission vehicles.

Magical Mystery Campout and Beatles Tribute Fair: festival April 4-5 in Jacumba

By Rebecca Person

March 28, 2026 (Jacumba Hot Springs) -- East County’s abuzz with a Beatles invasion. De Anza Springs Resort, a high desert retreat, welcomes the public to the Magical Mystery Campout and Beatles Fair, a two-day festival on April 4 and 5. The weekend will feature multiple Beatles cover bands, hiking, swimming in indoor and outdoor mineral pools and a spa, stargazing, and Beatles memorabilia.

Sheriff's Department weighs in before 'No Kings' rallies

East County Magazine

March 27, 2026 (San Diego County) -- On the eve of what many are calling the largest civil mobilization in American history, in "No Kings" protests, the official stance from regional law enforcement has been clear and public-facing.

Suspicious backpack at Santee Sheriff’s station triggers fear of explosives and shutdown of nearby streets

By Miriam Raftery

March 27, 2026 (Santee) – A staffer spotted a camouflage backpack near the front entrance of the Santee Sheriff station today at 12:24 p.m. Surveillance video showed a man on bicycle dropping off the suspicious pack. Deputies secured the area and sought help from the Sheriff’s Bomb/Arson detectives.

Patrol deputies conducted a search of the surrounding area for the individual, while the Sheriff’s helicopter issued public address announcements with a description of the subject.

Bomb/Arson detectives assessed the backpack and identified items that appeared to be military-style equipment. As a precaution, nearby streets and sidewalks adjacent to the station were temporarily closed to ensure public safety. Upon further examination, multiple rounds of high-powered ammunition were recovered from inside the backpack.

Detectives ultimately rendered the backpack safe and confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Saddle up: Border Patrol officers on horseback are coming to East County

U.S. Border Patrol

East County News Service

March 27, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) -- U.S. Border Patrol horse patrol units across the Southwest recently received 15 horses from the U.S. Army, an interagency transfer that will save the agency an estimated $105,000.

Meet candidates in Lakeside on April 22

East County News Service

March 27, 2026 (Lakeside) – Voters are invited to the “Candidates to Constituents Town Hall” series. The series is hosted by Alpine resident Anne Tillmond and features local, county & state candidates that voters can connect with over three town halls. The first C2C town hall is on Wednesday, April 22^nd, 2026 in Lakeside from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.

Light refreshments will be provided. Contact candidatestoconstituents@gmail.com for more information or to RSVP - Seating is limited.

Sheriff not investigating 7 reported rapes at Otay Mesa detention center

By Wendy Fry and Nigel Duara, CalMatters

Photo: a CoreCivic vehicle at the Otay Mesa Detention Center. (File photo by Adrian Childress/Times of San Diego)

This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters.

March 27, 2026 (Otay Mesa) - San Diego County Sheriff’s officials failed to investigate at least seven reported sexual assaults at the privately run Otay Mesa immigration detention center in 2025, and records show the agency has ceded control of the cases to civilian administrators employed by the nation’s largest for-profit prison contractor.

A century in paving San Diego with Hazard Construction

Hazard Construction President Jason Mordhorst and one of Hazard Construction's old trucks -- which still works.

Photos and story by Karen Pearlman

March 26, 2026 (Lakeside) – If you’ve driven a car in San Diego County, you've literally been on top of things with the Hazard Construction Company.

From the winding, scenic roads of Rancho Santa Fe and Del Mar to the massive, multi-lane interchanges of Interstate 8, the Lakeside-headquartered firm has spent a century literally laying the foundation for San Diego and Southern California's growth and expansion.

This June, Hazard officially hits the 100-year mark -- a rare centennial milestone that cements Hazard as one of the oldest and most influential civil engineering contractors in the state.

Hazard Construction Company started small in 1926 when it concentrated on road construction and excavation, but has evolved into a full-service general engineering contracting firm with a focus on private sector work.

East County public transportation guide to Padres Opening Day March 26

Skip Interstate 8 and 'ride the rails' with the Padres-wrapped Trolley

East County News Service

March 25, 2026 (San Diego) -- With the San Diego Padres set to kick off the 2026 season at Petco Park tomorrow afternoon (March 26, first pitch set for 1:10 p.m.), baseball fans in Santee, El Cajon, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, San Carlos and beyond are being urged to dodge the inevitable Interstate 8 gridlock.

With sellout crowds expected all weekend, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System is ramping up Green and Orange Line service to ensure East County fans spend more time in their seats and less time hunting for pricey parking spots.

League of Women Voters of San Diego continues nonpartisan candidate forums ahead of June primary

YouTube video screenshot of League of Women Voters' District 2 candidate forum on March 5

East County News Service

March 25, 2026 (San Diego) -- As the June 2 Primary approaches, the League of Women Voters of San Diego has ramped up its efforts to educate local residents on candidates and issues when they head to the ballot box.

The League of Women Voters of San Diego scheduled five candidate forums designed to provide voters with direct access to the individuals seeking to represent them in City Hall.

For information on the candidates, Measure A (Empty Homes Tax) and the election itself, visit the city's official 2026 election website here.

Juvenile riding e-motorcycle injured in hit-and-run Santee collision

East County News Service

March 25, 2026 (Santee) – A juvenile riding an electric motorcycle on Mission Gorge Road yesterday afternoon was struck by a passing motorist and fell off the e-motorcycle.

The motorist fled the scene before Sheriff’s deputies arrived.

In a preliminary investigation, statements from witnesses indicate that a group of kids on e-motorcycles were ‘in the roadway causing a hazard -- riding in lanes, holding up traffic,” when the juvenile was struck, said Sgt. Lorenzo Ortiz.

Lakeside hiker found dead on El Cajon Mountain is identified

File photo: El Capitan County Preserve hiking trail

Story updated March 26

By Miriam Raftery

March 24, 2026 (Lakeside) – The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s office has identified a hiker who died on El Cajon Mountain in the El Capitan County Preserve on March 22 as Johnathan L. Gorbea, 40, of Lakeside.

Gorbea was a decorated U.S. Navy veteran who also worked for the Department of Defense, according to a GoFundMe page set up by one of his cousins, which by 11:30 a.m. March 26 had raised $16,715 of $20,000 sought.

Gorbea’s family reported him missing on Sunday morning, after he failed to return from a hike he had left for on Saturday morning.

Expungement program with the county shared by Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe

East County News Service

March 24, 2026 (San Diego County) -- Working to dismantle barriers to employment and housing for formerly incarcerated residents, San Diego County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe of District 4 has announced a new initiative offering a "fresh start" through a mobile expungement service.

Montgomery Steppe said she wants to help individuals navigate the complex process of cleaning up adult criminal records.

For many, a past conviction remains a permanent roadblock to stability, even years after completing their sentences.

Karnival of the Arts coming to DeAnza Springs April 30 through May 3

East County News Service

March 24, 2026 (Jacumba Hot Springs) -- Performance art and music will collide and combine in concert in the high desert this spring as the Karnival of the Arts (KOTA) West returns to the DeAnza Springs Resort.

The festival, which has spent half a decade establishing a "West Coast home" in southeastern San Diego County, centers on a unique "triple-decked" stage production and will go from 4 p.m., April 30 through 4 p.m., May 3.

The design allows for simultaneous live painting, flow arts and musical performances, and this year features headliners Thundersmack (Leo P of Too Many Zooz and Michael Wilbur of Moon Hooch) and electronic multi-instrumentalist Vincent Antone.

"Our event highlights art like no other," says KOTA co-founder and producer Miguel Munoz. "Starting with triple decked stages for simultaneous live painting and dance/flow performances right along side regional favorite bands and international headliners."

Male lion joins pride at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

East County News Service

View video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1484962496593617

March 24, 2026 (San Pasqual) -- The lion pride at the Safari Park just got a little louder as Bo, Zuri, Amira, and Malika are together on habitat for the first time. For the past several years, the Safari Park has had only lionesses on display, but now the pride has a new lion king with the addition of Bo, a young male lion.

The Circle Players present 'The Conundrum on the Crackerjack Cruise' April 17, 18 and 19

East County News Service

March 24, 2026 (El Cajon) -- The First Presbyterian Church of El Cajon’s theater outreach program, The Circle Players, will navigate Richardson Hall into the high seas next month for an interactive mystery dinner theater production, “The Conundrum on the Crackerjack Cruise.”

Written by Nancy Bond, the play invites audience members to board the fictional cruise ship Grand Jubilation as it sets sail for the Bahamas.

The evening blends traditional performance with a "Game Night" experience. Guests are encouraged to participate as fellow passengers, competing in teams and cheering for victory as the sun and fun shift into a web of mystery and intrigue.

The No Kings march on March 28 aims to be biggest yet, protesting authoritarianism across U.S.

No Kings rallies San Diego

By Alexander J. Schorr

March 24, 2026— On Saturday, March 28, 2026, a massive nationwide mobilization called “No Kings 3” is scheduled across the United States. It is organized by the NO Kings Coalition, which includes groups like Indivisible, the ACLU, and the AFL-CIO. This event is expected to be one of the largest protests in American history.

The protest primarily aims to oppose what organizers describe as authoritarian actions and “regime brutality” by the second Trump administration. This specific date of protests was also chosen following the murders of residents like Alex Pretti, Renée Good, and Keith Porter during federal immigration (ICE) operations.

As of March 2026, the public views Trump’s second term as generally negative and deeply polarized. The nation is struggling under rising costs for living and affordability, disdain over the recent Iran War started by President Trump, as well as a general dissatisfaction of life in the United States,

San Diego County leaders share concerns ahead of World TB Day

East County News Service

March 23, 2026 (San Diego County) --While tuberculosis (TB) is often dismissed as a disease of the past, San Diego County health officials warned Monday, March 23, that the region is currently a hotspot for the infection, with local rates now outpacing state and national averages.

In an event held at Waterfront Park on Monday morning, County Supervisor Paloma Aguirre and top health officials, including County Public Health Officer Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan and Dr. Jeffrey Percak, Medical Director for County TB Prevention and Care, highlighted a concerning trend: after years of decline, the number of people diagnosed with TB in San Diego has been rising steadily since 2020.

Mt. Miguel High School Foundation hosts "Spring Craft Fair" April 11 to support local students

East County News Service

March 23, 2026 (Spring Valley) -- The Mt. Miguel High School Foundation is inviting the community to its upcoming "Spring Craft Fair" on Saturday, April 11.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mount Miguel High School at 8585 Blossom Lane in Spring Valley.

Whether you are looking for a special treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, the fair offers a chance to shop small while directly benefiting local education, says JoAnne Burke from the Mt. Miguel High School Foundation.

"It will be great place to get unique, one-of-a-kind items," Burke said. "Get a head start on Mother’s Day shopping while browsing a wonderful variety of handcrafted treasures from talented local vendors. You’re sure to find thoughtful gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and so much more -- and maybe even a little something just for you, too! Grab a friend and come shop local."

For those interested in participating as a crafter or for more general information, call Burke at (619) 469-7350 or email MtMiguelAlumni@gmail.com .

Walden Family Services marks 50 years with golf tournament and 'No Place Like Home' gala

East County News Service

March 22, 2026 (San Diego) -- Nonprofit Walden Family Services, which has supported more than 100,000 foster children and families since its founding in 1976, will host two public fundraisers as part of celebrating its 50 years in service.

The golden anniversary comes as the organization pivots toward an expansion of its housing and prevention programs for "Transitional Age Youth" --- young adults ages 18 to 26 who are aging out of the foster care system.

The celebration begins this week with the Walden Fairways Scramble Golf Tournament on Thursday, March 26. Held at the Singing Hills Golf Course at Sycuan, the charity tournament is designed to raise immediate funds for Walden’s housing initiatives.

Sarah Foles: A Short Story Collection by Travis Lee provides rich social commentary

San Diego Bookshelf

Reviewed by Pennell Paugh

March 22, 2026 (San Diego) -- San Diego author Travis Lee has released a collection of short stories currently displayed in the City of San Diego Author Showcase.

Sarah Foles (A Short Story Collection) contains a variety of stories including one about an ex-military man who loses a leg in an accident. After his discharge, the military pays for his education. In college he is more mature than the other students. Though he is in his late 20s he is attracted to a 17-year-old female student in “Sarah Foles.”

A grandson plans to save his grandmother who is being kept in an Alzheimer's home against her will in “Harry's Goodbye.”

A divorced man teaches his pre-schooler to steal packages from peoples’ front yards in “Jake & Junior.”

All Lee’s stories provide rich social commentary. Every story caused me to stop and think to fully understand and appreciate its underlying message. It’s an ideal gift to share and discuss with friends.

La Mesa 'State of the City' address: Crime rates drop, infrastructure work surges

Story and photos by Karen Pearlman

March 21, 2026 (La Mesa) -- A double-digit decline in property crime and a record-breaking year for road repairs in La Mesa were some of the highlights shared by La Mesa Mayor Mark Arapostathis earlier this month.

In his "State of the City" address shared by the city on March 11 and available on YouTube here, Arapostathis said that La Mesa reported an 11% reduction in property crime alongside substantial drops in commercial burglaries and auto thefts in 2025.

Arapostathis also lauded the city’s development pipeline, noting the issuance of about 1,500 permits as well as the launch of five pre-approved "fast-track" ADU designs to tackle housing affordability.

The city shared more department highlights of 2025 on its website here.

Santee School District awarded grant to launch Career Technical Program

East County News Service

March 21, 2026 (Santee) -- Santee School District was awarded a $215,000 grant through the Strong Workforce Program to launch a new Career Technical Education (CTE) program that will give 7th and 8th grade students the opportunity to explore a variety of career pathways.

Planning under way for 80th annual Crest 4th of July Parade and daylong festival

Vendors, food trucks and parade participants wanted

By Paul Levikow

March 21, 2026 (Crest) – The Crest Community Association is planning the 80th Annual Crest 4th of July Parade and is looking for parade participants and vendors for the festival. The event will also honor the 250th birthday of the United States.

San Diego-based USS Boxer with Pendleton Marines deploys to Mideast

News

by Chris Jennewein • Times of San Diego , a member of the San Diego Online News Association

The USS Boxer underway in March 2024 prior to a deployment. (Photo courtesy of the Navy)

March 20, 2026 (San Diego) -- The USS Boxer amphibious ready group with 2,200 Marines from Camp Pendleton has deployed to the Mideast as the war with Iran continues.

According to multiple reports, the amphibious assault ship accompanied by the dock-landing ship USS Comstock and amphibious transport dock USS Portland left San Diego on Wednesday.

The departure was not announced in advance for security. The Associated Press said it received confirmation that ships are bound for the Middle East.

ECM World Watch: national and global news

March 20, 2026 (San Diego) -- As part of our commitment to reflect all voices and views, we include links to a variety of news sources representing a broad spectrum of political, religious, and social views. Top world and U.S. headlines include:

U.S.

Iran War and military

US military sends 2,500 Marines and at least one more ship to Mideast (10 News)
Attacks on Middle East energy sites deepen threat to US economy, analysts say (ABC News)
White House blocks intelligence report warning of rising US homeland terror threat linked to Iran war (The Daily Mail)
Trump officials scrapped Pentagon blueprint to avoid civilian war casualties before Iran strikes, report says (Independent)
Trump’s DOGE Cuts Slashed Staff That Handled Middle Eastern Oil and Gas Crises (NOTUS)
Pete Hegseth Blew Billions on Fruit Basket Stands, Chairs, and Crab (The New Republic)

Other national news

WORLD

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