Members: Zack Gianino, Corey Uhden, Amanda Angulo
The Policy Committee consists of appointed members who were selected based on their knowledge on the wide array of unique issues facing San Diegans across multiple municipalities. The Committee is chaired by Vice President of External Affairs, Zack Gianino.
Economy:
Advocating for lower taxes and fiscal responsibility is essential, but we also deserve full transparency on the allocation of our current tax revenues. Taxes can play a role in improving our communities, however, the taxpayers must be able to see where exactly the funds are being spent. Leveraging technology can offer a clearer insight into government costs and spending, enabling us to hold elected officials accountable. One example of this is when the Vehicle Mileage Tax was proposed by San Diego Association of Government (SANDAG). SDYR opposed this tax and continues to oppose government bureaucracy for everyday San Diegans when it does not benefit the community. Tax programs must be there to improve the lives of San Diegans, not line the pockets of politicians.
Environment:
Individuals have a duty to safeguard San Diego’s natural treasures such as our beaches, mountains, and parks. SDYR supports innovative and green approaches like adopting Electric Vehicle Technology (EVT) and promoting environmentally-friendly business practices. While emphasizing conservation, SDYR also advocates for pragmatic government intervention in addressing natural disasters.
Immigration:
Located near the Southern border, San Diego is central to immigration discussions. Many families from Mexico travel daily for work and school in the area, contributing to the labor force. While endorsing legal immigration and supporting the pursuit of the American Dream, SDYR advocates for strengthened Homeland Security measures to protect citizens and maintain community safety. SDYR supports Border Patrol Agents and emphasizes the importance of facilitating legal immigration processes that both empower individuals and preserve community safety.
Housing:
Buying a first home and achieving generational wealth seems increasingly unattainable for Millennials and Gen Z, a situation exacerbated by government policies. SDYR notes the adverse effects of conflicts of interest on the economy and the ongoing population decline in California, greatly due to the housing affordability crisis. SDYR advocates for reforming the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to facilitate more housing developments and opposes bills like SB9 and SB10, which hinder real estate investment and negatively impact businesses like Airbnb. San Diegians and Californians alike deserve to be able to live and buy in the communities they choose.
Homelessness:
We approach the homelessness crisis with a stance that is compassionate yet firm, aiming to uplift the homeless community without endorsing self-destructive behaviors. Acknowledging that the multi-faceted issue of homelessness, exacerbated by mental health challenges, drug issues, and housing affordability, is San Diego’s most urgent problem. SDYR emphasizes that substantial progress requires time, transparency, and empathy. We believe in fostering an environment where the unhoused can remain contributing members of society, highlighting the importance of individual initiative. SDYR supports private organizations including the Alpha Project for the Homeless, Uptown Community Center, Lucky Duck Foundation, and Father Joe’s Village, and encourages the use of resources available through the City of San Diego and County of San Diego for those in need.
If you are interested in having a discussion on our political stances or proposing a new stance, email [email protected]
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by individual members and members of the Board are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance or views of the organization as a whole.