Studies and Activities

What follows is a partial list of studies and materials* published by Taxpayers Advocate.  Since 2003 Taxpayers Advocate has participated has analyzed and participated in numberous public policy issues and campaigns, and signed numerous ballot arguments.

Press Release
May 19, 2020

TAXPAYERS ADVOCATE CLIFF & INLAND WATER RESCUE STUDY SHOWS WASTE IN USE OF FIRE RESOURCES V. LIFEGUARDS

SD Fire Department Responding to Lifeguard Rescues Create’s Gaps in Service

La Jolla: Scott Barnett, President of San Diego Taxpayers Advocate released the results of a two-year study that compared resources used when SD Fire Department personnel responded to daylight cliff and inland water rescues. The study was based on over 8000 electronic fire dispatch records from 2008 through 2018, and hundreds of paper lifeguard dispatch reports.

“Our study clearly demonstrates that when San Diego Firefighters usurp cliff and show up in force at inland water rescues that should be done by lifeguards, it wastes of public safety resources and creates gaps in San Diego Fire services,” said Barnett.

Downloads: (PDF)

Other Studies*

*PARTIAL LIST