Gloria Launches National Affordability Tour Amid Trash Fee Controversy

Mayor Todd Gloria, in his capacity as president of the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM), announced a national affordability tour on Sept. 25, 2026, following a week marked by a significant trash fee billing error in San Diego. The mistake impacted 87,681 customers, with 44,041 overcharged, some by up to $2,700, and half undercharged. Gloria defended his hands-on leadership, citing his assumption of duties after eliminating the city’s former COO, Eric Dargan, in 2025.

Supporters, including Lincoln, Neb. Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird, praised Gloria’s national advocacy, notably his role in shaping the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. Critics like Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera, however, argued the billing failure reflects broader operational missteps, urging Gloria to hire a professional COO to streamline city operations.

The affordability tour, beginning in Albuquerque in October, will examine childcare, housing, healthcare, and food costs across Albuquerque, Austin, Columbus, and Atlanta. Gloria stressed mayors’ unique capacity to deliver tangible outcomes, urging Washington to heed local priorities. San Diego officials expect San Diego County to issue corrected property tax bills before the Nov. 1 due date.