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Board advances ordinance tightening rules on possession of catalytic converters, 4-1 on first reading
Summary
The board approved first reading of a county ordinance to strengthen unlawful possession rules for catalytic converters after public testimony; the measure moves to a second reading and adoption hearing on Feb. 24, 2026, following a 4-1 vote.
On Feb. 9 the board gave first reading to a county ordinance aimed at strengthening local enforcement against unlawful possession of catalytic converters, a measure put forward by Vice Chair Katrina Foley to combat a spate of thefts.
Public testimony supported the measure as a tool to give law enforcement and prosecutors additional options. A public speaker told the board that deputies had encountered individuals in possession of multiple converters and urged better tools to hold people accountable. Vice Chair Foley said the ordinance would close a loophole and that she had consulted with the district attorney's office and the sheriff's department.
The board voted 4-1 to advance the ordinance to a second reading and adoption hearing scheduled for Feb. 24, 2026. Supervisor Sarmiento and others raised questions about proof of lawful ownership and asked staff and counsel to include measures such as stamped identifiers, receipts, or an etching program so that lawful possession could be demonstrated. Vice Chair Foley and supporters said those practical protections could be incorporated into implementation guidance and enforcement practice.
The first reading does not itself change enforcement until the ordinance is adopted at the second reading. The board set the second reading date and the clerk will publish the required notices before the Feb. 24 meeting.
