San Diego County is one of the largest, most complex local governments in California, but its governing structure was designed for a bygone era. 

It’s responsible for nearly $9 billion in public funds each year — but who’s watching over who spends what, and whether that spending is working? The reality is that county taxpayers still lack the independent oversight assurances they deserve to ensure that money is spent wisely and ethically.

I’ve joined community leaders in calling for a change, and I need your voice to help get it on the ballot so voters can turn it into law.

(Spoiler alert: If you support this plan, tell the Board of Supervisors here before we vote next Tuesday, April 21) 

Time for the County to Enter the 21st Century

Managing billions in tax dollars to serve more than 3.3 million residents — it’s an enormous responsibility that demands a governing structure that can match it.

But right now, the County’s legacy systems fall short.

That's why earlier this month I announced I’m standing with a growing coalition of civic leaders to back a package of reforms to the County Charter — improvements I believe will make our county government more transparent, more accountable, and more worthy of your trust. 

These changes won't cost taxpayers new money. They will, however, modernize County operations to be on par with other comparable local governments.

Just as important, it will give residents and their elected representatives far better visibility into how decisions get made.

Do You Like Independent Oversight of your Government? Then This Is For You

Here's what we’re proposing to put before voters:

First, an independent ethics commission — something most large jurisdictions already have — so that any potential misconduct is not ignored and reviewed in an unbiased, nonpartisan manner. 

Second, an independent budget analyst reporting directly to the Board of Supervisors — not the bureaucratic arm that proposes the budget — so elected officials can shape fiscal policy rather than simply react to it. 

Third, an independent program auditor to evaluate whether County programs are actually working. 

And fourth, a confirmation process for key department heads and term limits that further your elected representative’s ability to manage this critical organization, ensuring that leaders overseeing billions in public resources are accountable and responsive to the people they serve.

These are targeted, common-sense guardrails for a modern public institution. They strengthen checks and balances without disrupting day-to-day operations.

But I need your help. It’s important that the Board of Supervisors hears from you. 

If you want to see more independent oversight, performance review, and ethics reform at the County of San Diego, please take a moment to submit a comment and let us know 

Your voice matters as we work to build a county government as strong as the community it serves.

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