Council approves Measure I citizens oversight committee bylaws; independent auditor and six-meeting cadence included

The Escondido City Council on June 11 approved bylaws for a new Measure I citizens oversight committee, which will review expenditures of the 1% Measure I sales-tax revenues and provide annual audit reports to the council.

What the bylaws say: Zach Beck, city clerk, said the oversight committee will be advisory and consist of five voting members and one alternate: one representative from the Escondido Police Officers Association, one from the Escondido Firefighters Association, a business community representative, a representative from the San Diego County Taxpayers Association (seat currently vacant) and an at-large community member. The ordinance requires at least two meetings per year, but the bylaws direct the committee to meet at least six times a year to improve oversight cadence. The committee may select an independent auditor; audit costs will be paid from Measure I funds. Committee members will serve two-year terms (up to three consecutive terms) and must complete mandatory ethics training.

Vacant taxpayer seat: Beck said the San Diego County Taxpayers Association seat has not responded to outreach from the city; the city manager’s office recommended making an appointment public if the association does not appear. The clerk noted the city council also appointed an alternate at the March 19 meeting.

Council action and next steps: councilmembers said they supported the bylaws and the independent‑auditor provision. The council approved the bylaws and a mayor-signed letter asking the oversight committee to adopt the bylaws and to emphasize transparency and adherence to voter priorities. Staff will refer the adopted bylaws and the letter to the oversight committee for the committee’s own adoption and onboarding.

Ending: the oversight committee will begin meetings under the adopted bylaws; staff and council will provide ongoing support and reporting to the committee.