With the recent release of the county\u2019s latest proposed budget, you can now weigh in directly on the $6.26 billion spending plan and check out what others are saying by visiting budget.sandiegocounty.gov.<\/span><\/p>\n See where your valuable taxpayer dollars are going \u2014 then let us know what you think by posting a video or text response. I look forward to your feedback.<\/span><\/p>\n Progress on the fire front: <\/span><\/b>The Board of Supervisors recently backed my proposal to explore the functional consolidation of fire dispatch centers in the region.<\/span><\/p>\n I believe that placing the region\u2019s five dispatch centers under one roof would improve response times and save lives. Those centers are operated by San Diego Fire, North County Dispatch, Heartland Communications, Escondido and Cal Fire\/County Fire Authority.<\/span><\/p>\n Over the past 15 years, the county has spent more than $460 million to improve fire protection and emergency medical services in our backcountry.<\/span><\/p>\n Helping our seniors: <\/span><\/b>It was great to join folks in Ramona recently to break ground on the new Schmale Family Senior Residence.<\/span><\/p>\n This important project will become a home for some of our neediest residents \u2014 low-income seniors who need a quality, affordable place. It will have 62 units. Rents will be subsidized by federal Section 8 vouchers provided through the County Housing Authority. Each unit will be available to those 55 and older who financially qualify.<\/span><\/p>\n The county approved the project about a year ago. It is part of our broader efforts to boost the stock of affordable housing across the county, especially for our seniors and veterans.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"News](\"https:\/\/missiontimescourier.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/Dianne_Jacob_Photo-200x300.jpg\")
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