Panel previews charter change to extend appointment timeline, require public input for countywide vacancies

The Charter Review Committee previewed a proposal April 2 to amend the county charter's appointment process for vacancies in countywide elective offices (not the Board of Supervisors). The subcommittee recommended extending the current 30-day limit to 60 days and requiring at least one publicly noticed meeting to solicit public input before an appointment.

Julie Lind, presenting the subcommittee's work, said staff and outside comparisons showed 30 days was often too short for outreach, vetting and public engagement. "30 days isn't a lot of time," she said, noting the compressed timeline complicated the recent sheriff appointment and limited public participation. The proposed amendment would give the board 60 days to either appoint or trigger a special election; if the board appoints, the appointee would be seated within the 60-day window. The draft language also would require the board to hold at least one public meeting for receiving public input on candidates before an appointment.

Members asked technical and legal questions. Eddie Flores asked whether a 2–2 split among supervising members would block action; county counsel explained that appointments are governed by a majority vote and that different rules apply for vacancies on the Board of Supervisors (section 203) versus other countywide elective offices (section 415). "A 2–2 vote would not result in a successful motion; you need a majority," counsel said.

Committee members debated whether to require a minimum of one public meeting or two. Kimberly Woo and others argued that two meetings, spaced apart and allowing virtual participation, would better permit public access and avoid rushed outreach; Julie Lind and several members favored retaining a single minimum to preserve board flexibility. The committee gave direction to the subcommittee to consider the options (one versus two public meetings) and whether meetings may be held virtually to broaden access.

The preview clarified that the proposal applies only to vacancies in countywide elective offices other than the Board of Supervisors and that the board would determine the staffing or consultants to compile any required reports or vetting materials. The subcommittee will finalize language for the committee's next meeting.