Update on Efforts to Modernize the San Diego Convention Center

Earlier this week a California Superior Court judge ruled that Measure C, which would provide funds to expand and modernize the San Diego Convention Center as well address homelessness and repair roads, needed a two-thirds vote to pass and not a simple majority, as the City of San Diego had argued.

The San Diego city attorney and the Yes on C campaign have pledged to expedite an appeal of this decision. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said the city remains undeterred and believes that “Measure C required a simple majority to pass based on court rulings made after the March 2020 election,” and “supports the city attorney’s continued pursuit of having this matter heard on its merits.”

Background

• In March 2020, 65.24% of San Diegans voted in favor of Measure C. If adopted, this measure would increase the hotel visitor tax in the City of San Diego with funds to be designated to 1) expand and modernize the San Diego Convention Center; 2) effectively address homelessness; and 3) repair roads. 
• In April 2021, our San Diego City Council voted to declare Measure C as approved based on appellate court rulings stating that citizen initiatives proposing special taxes require a simple majority (instead of a 2/3 supermajority vote) for approval. The City Council also asked the city attorney to seek a validation lawsuit with the California Supreme Court to confirm that a simple majority was required. 

Looking Ahead 

• As the process continues, the San Diego Convention Center will continue to lead the industry as one of the nation’s premier gathering places by providing excellent customer service, giving back to the community and serving as an economic engine for the region. 
• If Measure C ultimately passes, the San Diego Convention Center expects to enter into a period of collaboration and coordination with the city and the Port of San Diego regarding the timeline, design and other specifics. 
• We will stay in touch with our clients and community about any new developments related to expansion and modernization through our website, social media and additional communications activities in partnership with the San Diego Convention Center.