A City Auditor’s report has found that San Diego mayors have been improperly increasing spending limits on city contracts without Council approval since 2017.
According to the review, 42% of contract alterations were brought to the San Diego City Council in an untimely manner between 2017-2023. They amounted to $155 million in additional spending. Mayor Todd Gloria, his predecessor Kevin Faulconer, and their staff were responsible for the increases.
Not all contract amendments require Council review and approval. But contracts that exceed five years in length, or changes that exceed $200,000, do carry this requirement.
The Auditor issued a series of recommendations, including developing new guidelines and a formal process for contract amendments. The city has agreed to implement the recommendations.
“Good contract management in City contracting is crucial for ensuring public funds are used efficiently and responsibly,” said Claudia Abarca, director of the city’s Purchasing and Contracting Department.
Read the report here.