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February 25.2025
3 Minutes Read

Huntington Beach Citizens Discuss Budget Goals and Future Challenges

Huntington Beach budget town hall meeting with speakers at podium.

Huntington Beach Faces Budget Deficits Amid Community Concerns

The coastal allure of Huntington Beach continues to captivate residents and visitors alike, but recent budget discussions at a town hall meeting have revealed some stormy financial forecasts for the city. In a gathering marked by concern and curiosity, City leaders addressed projected budget deficits that could loom large over the beautiful Surf City. Mayor Pat Burns, along with Mayor Pro Tem Casey McKeon and interim Chief Financial Officer David Cain, aimed to keep the community informed as they navigate these challenging fiscal waters.

Understanding the Numbers: A Financial Snapshot

During the meeting, CFO David Cain provided a detailed presentation of Huntington Beach’s financial state, revealing that the approved budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 was balanced at $301.7 million in revenues against $300 million in expenditures. While this appears stable on the surface, deeper issues are surfacing. Cain warned that structural deficits—where ongoing revenues fall short of ongoing expenditures—are anticipated to begin in 2025-26, potentially exceeding $50 million by 2032.

In recent years, budget balancing has relied on cost reductions and improved efficiency. However, the rising costs of construction, state mandates, and personnel retention are siphoning funds, prompting urgent discussions about future budget management and prioritization.

Residents React to Budget Cuts and Service Sacrifices

As discussions unfolded, residents raised pressing concerns about city services. Notably, Perry Clitheroe questioned the condition of the city’s aging infrastructure, which recently received a disheartening "C" grade overall—indicating potential cuts to community services that are vital for maintaining Huntington's signature charm.

Additionally, attendees expressed worries about tourism impacts. The fear that Huntington Beach was becoming a “pariah” for visitors drew responses from McKeon, who highlighted recent successful events and sponsorships, including the return of local businesses that had left during challenging times.

Possible Cuts: Does the Town Value Its Community Services?

Previous proposals have hinted at drastic cuts to vital city programs. There are concerns that upcoming shortfalls could result in branch closures of local libraries, a cornerstone for community engagement and education. The city is also considering eliminating services that enhance community well-being, such as the Circuit transport program and park ranger positions.

This has prompted a vigorous debate among city leaders and residents alike. Many feel that preservation of community resources must take precedence over administrative expenditures.

Looking Ahead: The Necessity of Community Engagement

These budget conversations underscore an important narrative: the more engaged residents are in civic matters, particularly budgeting, the better outcome they can advocate for their community. Mayor Burns and CFO Cain encouraged attendees to continue voicing their concerns at upcoming meetings, as transparency and public participation are vital to crafting an equitable budget.

As the city looks to adjust its financial sails, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed and involved. Understanding how budget decisions affect daily life in Huntington Beach is key to ensuring Surf City continues to thrive, attracting both residents and tourists.

Join the Conversation and Help Shape the Future

The town’s financial future hangs in the balance, and your voice matters! Attend the next city hall meeting, stay informed on the budget discussions, and advocate for the programs and resources that make Huntington Beach a thriving community. Together, we can navigate through these financial challenges while preserving the heart and spirit of Surf City.

Beach Culture

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11.22.2025

How to Embrace Winter Surfing: Become a Cold Wave Connoisseur

Update Unleash Your Inner Winter Surf Warrior As temperatures plummet and waves beckon, the idea of winter surfing might sound intimidating—especially to novice surfers. However, with dedication and preparation, transitioning into winter surfing can be as seamless as it is invigorating. The UK surf scene thrives on year-round commitment, and winter offers exhilarating, uncrowded waves just waiting to be conquered! Gear Up for Success A solid investment in your surf gear is non-negotiable. Choose a high-quality wetsuit that will comfortably adapt to colder temperatures. Look for features like glued and blind stitching, sealed wrist and ankle areas to reduce flushing, and an easy-entry chest zip to keep that precious body heat in. Additionally, don’t overlook the necessity of boots, gloves, and a hood—it’s about comfort as much as function. If the budget's tight, consider shopping for second-hand options; a well-maintained wetsuit can last you several winters! Master the Art of Cold Water Surfing Prepare for colder waters by adjusting your surfing habits. Shorter sessions are perfectly acceptable; focus on catching a few quality waves before exiting the water. Your body will thank you as you avoid the chill-induced fatigue that comes from overstaying in frigid conditions. Always listen to what your body tells you—if numb toes are the signal, it’s time to paddle in. Post-Surf Comfort Essentials The essence of winter surf isn’t just in the water; it’s in the rituals that follow! Prepare a cozy post-surf package with all the essentials: a thermos of hot drink, a hot water bottle, and irresistibly comfy clothes. Ditch the tight jeans for warm joggers and hoodies that allow for speedy changes in windy beach parking lots. The bliss of slipping into warm layers fuels the next surf adventure! The Power of Community Surfing is about camaraderie; share the cold waves with friends. They can help motivate you on chilly days and share the excitement in the lineup. A group text or social media circle can turn weekends into inspiring surf adventures where you can amp each other for the waves ahead. Tap into local surf communities online or at your favorite break; together, you'll keep the stoke alive! Staying Fit: The Off-Season Challenge While the surf forecast may dictate your weekends, don’t let a Monday-to-Friday job sideline your surf fitness. Incorporate workouts into your weekly routine; try practicing your pop-up at home while binge-watching your favorite show, or join an online yoga class for surfers. Staying active will ensure you're ready to seize every wave opportunity and maximize your time in the water. What’s Your Surf Style? Tailoring Boards for Winter Swells Winter swells demand adjustments, both in equipment and technique. If you have multiple boards, make sure to select one suited for heavier waves. A board with more volume can enhance your paddling and stability when you're encased in neoprene. Don’t forget essentials like a wax comb, spare leash, and a ding repair kit! Being prepared means more time shredding and less time worrying. Fueling Your Passion: The Winter Stoke Winter surfing isn’t just about overcoming cold; it’s about embracing the thrill of uncrowded coastline and the robustness of nature. Each session is a new adventure: plan your trips, line up buddies, and get excited about chasing the freshest swells! In every dive beneath the frothy wave, remember, it’s not just the wave you ride, it’s also the community behind you and the memories you create together! So, are you ready to embrace the cold and surf your way through winter? Just remember, with the right equipment, mindset, and community support, winter waves might just become your new favorite addiction—so grab your gear and get out there!

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