Coronado Mayor Richard Bailey is preparing to challenge Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer for the District 3 seat on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors in the upcoming 2024 general election. While Bailey has yet to formally announce his candidacy, his recent actions, including filing the necessary paperwork and launching a website called “San Diego Comeback,” signal his serious intentions to run.
A Rising Political Career
Bailey, who made history in 2016 as the youngest-ever mayor of Coronado at the age of 30, has been a prominent figure in local politics for over a decade. Before his mayoral tenure, he served on the Coronado City Council for four years, demonstrating a commitment to his community. In 2022, Bailey considered running for the U.S. House of Representatives against Democrat Scott Peters but opted out due to changes brought about by redistricting.
Former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer is also rumored to be considering a bid for the District 3 seat, potentially adding another layer of competition to the race.
Bailey’s Vision for San Diego County
In an interview with The Coast News, Bailey emphasized his intention to adopt practical, “common-sense” policies to address key issues such as homelessness, public safety, housing, transportation, environmental protection, and fiscal responsibility. He also highlighted his strong work ethic, proudly noting that he has never missed a vote or meeting during his decade-long political career.
“Residents and voters deserve a representative who shows up and works hard for their community,” Bailey said. “If elected, I promise never to miss a county vote or meeting.”
Tackling Homelessness with Proven Strategies
Homelessness remains one of the most urgent issues facing San Diego County, and Bailey points to Coronado’s success as a potential model for the region. Under his leadership, Coronado has maintained the lowest homeless rate in the county. Bailey credits this achievement to a balanced approach that combines connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with essential services and enforcing quality-of-life laws. He believes this dual strategy has created a safe and clean environment for Coronado residents and visitors alike.
“We focus on helping people get back on their feet while ensuring our public spaces remain welcoming for everyone,” Bailey explained. He aims to apply this philosophy to the broader District 3 region if elected.
Reforming Transportation Policies
Transportation is another focal point for Bailey, particularly in light of ongoing debates about SANDAG’s $172 billion regional transportation plan. Bailey has been a vocal critic of the plan’s proposed road user charge, a per-mile fee for motorists aimed at reducing traffic and supplementing declining gas tax revenues. Opponents, including Bailey, argue that the fee would disproportionately impact low- and middle-income residents while offering limited benefits to District 3 commuters.
“Two-thirds of the funds raised through these taxes are slated for public transit, which currently serves less than 2% of the population,” Bailey said. He contends that the region requires a more realistic and efficient transportation strategy that reflects the fact that the vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles.
Bailey’s vision includes addressing pothole repairs, reducing freeway bottlenecks, and modernizing road infrastructure to accommodate clean and autonomous vehicles. “These practical changes would significantly improve the daily lives of commuters without excessive costs,” he added.
Advocating for Local Control in Housing and Zoning
Bailey strongly believes that cities within District 3—Coronado, San Diego, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Carlsbad—deserve greater autonomy in managing housing and zoning issues. He criticizes the regional “one-size-fits-all” approach to affordable housing, advocating instead for tailored solutions that reflect the unique needs and priorities of each municipality.
He also expressed concerns about the application of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) metrics in planning and environmental reviews, a practice implemented under former Supervisor Nathan Fletcher. Bailey argues that this approach has hindered growth in unincorporated areas and shifted housing development west of Interstate 5, exacerbating existing challenges.
In 2019, SANDAG’s decision to increase the county’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment by over 40% further complicated the issue, as most cities in the county have struggled to meet their state-mandated housing requirements. Bailey aims to work closely with local governments to address these challenges collaboratively.
Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Concerns
Bailey has also raised questions about the county’s spending practices. One of his primary concerns is the $5 million annual allocation for legal aid to undocumented immigrants, a service he believes should be funded by the federal government. He argues that such expenditures divert resources away from other critical needs and reflect a lack of fiscal discipline.
Bailey envisions a county budget that prioritizes core services and aligns with the needs of District 3 residents. “We need to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently and effectively,” he said.
Connecting with District 3 Communities
Bailey’s campaign emphasizes collaboration with local communities to address their specific needs. He plans to consult with municipal leaders before advancing major projects, ensuring that their perspectives are incorporated into the decision-making process.
“Each city within District 3 has unique challenges and opportunities,” Bailey noted. “It’s crucial to respect their independence while fostering regional cooperation.”
A Focus on the Future
As San Diego County continues to face complex issues, Bailey’s campaign is centered on practical, results-driven solutions. He is committed to addressing the region’s most pressing concerns while preserving its character and enhancing its quality of life.
“I want to help San Diego County reclaim its status as ‘America’s Finest,’” Bailey said. “That means focusing on what matters most to residents—safe communities, reliable infrastructure, affordable housing, and a government that works for them.
What’s Next for the District 3 Race?
With the 2024 election on the horizon, the District 3 race is shaping up to be highly competitive. Bailey’s track record as mayor of Coronado, combined with his policy proposals, positions him as a strong contender. However, he will likely face significant challenges from incumbent Terra Lawson-Remer and potentially other high-profile candidates like Kevin Faulconer.
As the campaign unfolds, voters will have the opportunity to weigh the candidates’ visions for the future of San Diego County. For Bailey, the race represents a chance to bring his leadership and experience to the broader region, building on his successes in Coronado.
Conclusion
Richard Bailey’s potential bid for the District 3 seat highlights his dedication to addressing San Diego County’s most pressing issues through common-sense, nonpartisan policies. From tackling homelessness and reforming transportation to advocating for fiscal responsibility and local control, Bailey’s platform reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of his constituents. As the election approaches, his campaign will undoubtedly be one to watch in the race to shape the future of District 3.
