Our First Newsletter ☕

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BUSINESS

Albertsons To Divest 11 Stores To Kroger In Proposed Merger

Kroger and Albertsons plan to divest 579 stores in a proposed merger, affecting California significantly.

• Kroger and Albertsons intend to sell 579 stores as part of their merger agreement, with a substantial number located in Southern California.

• The divestiture includes 11 stores in San Diego, such as Vons and Albertsons locations.

• Despite assurances from Kroger's CEO about job retention through the spin-off to C&S Wholesale Grocers, the merger faces opposition from the FTC over concerns of reduced competition and potential price hikes.

• The United Food and Commercial Workers union remains steadfast in its opposition, citing concerns about detrimental impacts on workers, consumers, suppliers, and communities, and legal challenges are set to proceed with hearings scheduled from late July through September.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Police Shooting Occurs In Bird Park, La Jolla

A man was fatally shot by police in La Jolla during a confrontation where he allegedly approached officers with a knife.

• Incident occurred Saturday morning in Bird Park

• Multiple calls reported a man with a knife causing disturbance.

• Police approached a Hispanic man in his 20s near a vehicle; he walked towards them with a knife.

• An officer shot and killed the man during the confrontation.

• Investigation by the sheriff’s Homicide Unit is ongoing; intersection closed for several hours.

LOCAL POLITICS

Half-Cent Tax Is On The Ballot In Oceanside

Measure X, a half-cent sales tax in Oceanside initially approved in 2018, is seeking a decade-long extension to fund public safety, infrastructure upgrades, and community programs.

• Approved in 2018, it raised the sales tax to 8.25% for seven years, generating $13-18 million annually.

• Funds repaired 560+ lane miles, built Fire Station 1, enhanced beach areas, and expanded public safety programs.

• City Council unanimously backs extension until 2036, with strong voter approval expected (67-73%).

• Generates $19 million annually if extended, funding parks, infrastructure, police, and fire services.

BUSINESS

Carlsbad Approves Railroad Trenching Agreement With SANDAG

Carlsbad officials are working with regional transportation agencies to secure grants for a major infrastructure project focusing on downtown railroad improvements.

• Carlsbad, NCTD, and SANDAG are collaborating to enhance the downtown railroad line by lowering tracks and adding a second set to handle increased train traffic.

• $5.22 million has been allocated by Carlsbad for initial studies and design work during the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

• SANDAG will lead grant funding efforts, while Carlsbad retains control over allocated funds until needed for the project.

• The project does not require voter approval under Proposition H, as funds are designated for preliminary studies and design, not property acquisition or improvements triggering Proposition H requirements.

• The expansion aims to accommodate an estimated doubling of train traffic by 2035, involving approximately 8.6 miles of double tracks and lowering tracks to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion.

  More On SANDAG »

OUR COMMUNITY

Motorcyclist Killed In Oceanside Collision

A 20-year-old active duty Marine tragically lost his life in a collision involving his motorcycle and a vehicle near an Oceanside gas station, prompting an investigation by the Oceanside Police Department.

• A Marine, aged 20, died in a motorcycle collision near Douglas Drive and North River Road in Oceanside.

• The incident involved a Volkswagen Passat making a left turn into an AM PM gas station.

• The Marine was pronounced dead at the scene after colliding with the vehicle's front fender.

• The driver of the Volkswagen, a 64-year-old from Carlsbad, cooperated with authorities following the accident.