AB 652 would allow qualified alternates on San Diego air district board; city and county supporters back amended bill

Assemblymember David Alvarez presented AB 652 to the Senate Environmental Quality Committee to address operational gaps at the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (SDAPCD). The bill would permit each appointing authority to designate qualified alternates who may serve, vote and receive compensation in the absence or disqualification of regular members; alternates would be required to meet the same qualifications as regular members.

Alvarez told the committee the measure is meant to prevent decision-making delays caused when the board cannot reach a quorum because members are absent, recused or disqualified. He said the bill would protect representation of public members and environmental justice advocates by allowing alternates with equivalent qualifications to ensure continuity.

The SDAPCD submitted a letter of support for AB 652 as amended; the district's representative told the committee the SDAPCD appreciated removal of tie-breaking procedures and city-selection-committee appointment language that had raised concerns about equitable representation for smaller cities. The city of San Diego also testified in support of the amended bill, noting disappointment that a tie-breaking provision had been removed but indicating continued support for the remainder of the measure.

Opposition testimony included Kayleen Halbeck with the Motorcycle Industry Council, who identified conditional opposition "unless amended." Committee members asked questions; one vice chair said they would support the bill in committee but reserved the right to change their vote depending on whether promised amendments are included on the floor.

The author closed asking for an "aye" vote. The committee recorded the motion to move AB 652 out of committee to Local Government with a recorded vote in committee that advanced the bill.