The spending plan, more than double last year’s budget, reflects $850 million in proceeds from the initial phase of the $3.5 billion Measure HH bond approved by voters in November 2024. Funds are dedicated to building new classrooms, job training facilities, and instructional laboratories; upgrading lecture halls; creating affordable student housing; improving student and veteran support infrastructure; and increasing the use of solar and renewable energy.
“This budget invests in our mission to uplift our diverse communities with access, belonging, and success in higher education, while keeping appropriate safeguards against future economic uncertainty,” said SDCCD Chancellor Gregory Smith. “Thanks to the partnership of our campus communities and the support of voters, we will ensure San Diegans have access to state-of-the-art facilities and training for high demand jobs which provide pathways to the middle class and support business and industry.”
Among the highlights:
- General Fund: The budget allocates $663 million to the General Fund, which supports the SDCCD’s core operations. This represents a 3% increase over the prior year.
- Student-Centered Funding Formula: More than half of General Fund revenue — $337.7 million — comes through the state’s Student-Centered Funding Formula (SCFF). Based on factors such as enrollment, student financial need, and success outcomes such as degrees and certificates earned, SCFF funding rose more than $11 million over the prior year.
- Reserves: The budget includes a projected ending balance equal to 24.5% of expenses, a sharp increase from the 17% approved last year. District leaders noted that this strong reserve position reflects SDCCD’s fiscal prudence amid ongoing economic and political uncertainty.
“Measure HH will allow us to keep our foundation strong and vibrant,” said SDCCD Board President Geysil Arroyo. “Urgent repairs, innovative new spaces, and student supports are on the way, and our community can be confident that these funds will be managed with transparency and competency.”
The budget, which includes more than a dozen different funds in all, was shaped by a collaborative, months-long process led by Vice Chancellor of Finance and Business Services Daniel Troy and the 19-member Budget Planning & Development Council comprising representatives from each of the district’s four colleges, union leaders, and administrators.
Under state law, community college districts in California are required to adopt a final budget by September 15 annually.