ICAC urges San Mateo County supervisors to set clear, public process for replacing sheriff and backs permanent inspector general

The Independent Civilian Advisory Commission on Oct. 21 voted to send final recommendations to the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors asking the board to adopt a clear, public communications plan and to incorporate community stakeholders in whatever process — appointment or special election — the board chooses to fill the county sheriff vacancy.

The commission emphasized that the board must act within 30 days to either call a special election or appoint a new sheriff, and the commission recommended that county officials publish timelines, eligibility rules, interim leadership plans and public engagement steps so residents know how the replacement process will proceed.

The recommendation, presented to the commission during a short-notice update, asked staff to expand slides to include a plain‑language explanation of the duties of the person now discharging the sheriff’s responsibilities, proposed timelines for both appointment and election options, and a central online hub with information and multilingual outreach. The commission approved the presentation and authorized the chair to make modifications consistent with the meeting discussion.

Public commente…