Get Money This Way, City

On June 4, 2008, James Olson appeared before the San Diego City Council to discuss the lack of citations issued to pet owners who bring their dogs to Pacific and Mission Beach boardwalks during restricted hours.

Nearly two years later, Olson returned to the city council during the April 13 meeting to say that there continues to be plenty of dog owners in violation of city code at the boardwalk and there is still no enforcement.

Olson claims that he has seen — on numerous occasions — lifeguards and police officers petting dogs and interacting with them during restricted times, but not writing citations.

“This is a big problem. The last time I was here, I was told the lifeguards and the police officers’ role was to enforce this code,” said Olson at the meeting.

The enforcement of city codes — such as smoking, drinking, and dog violations — at the boardwalk, Olson believes, could bring in “millions” of revenue for the city. He stated that city employees at the beach should be reminded that code enforcement is part of their job.

“The City is closing beach facilities, like restrooms, and is going to do away with fire rings and brown-out fire stations due to lack of funds,” said Olson. “If they were to enforce each and every law down in the boardwalk…you would have plenty of money.”

Photo: Mickey Max