05/18/2026
On Friday, San Diego County District Attorney DA Summer Stephan joined Supervisor Joel Anderson, San Diego County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Kelly Martinez, and San Diego Assessor - Recorder - County Clerk Jordan Z. Marks for a major press conference on proposed San Diego County Charter reforms.
On May 19, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors will consider ITEM 25, on the agenda, "Adopting a Revised Resolution of the Board of Supervisors Proposing Amendments to the Charter of the County of San Diego entitled ‘A Transparent, Accountable, Modern County Government,’ and Amending the Ordinance ‘Modernizing The San Diego County Charter to Strengthen Transparency, Accountability and Independent Oversight’." This is a revised charter reform proposal that preserves important accountability measures while removing misleading and problematic provisions contained in the original proposal (ITEM 24).
The revised measure supports meaningful reform while ensuring voters clearly understand what they are being asked to approve. It protects transparency, strengthens independent oversight, and prevents political interference in county operations.
Key differences between the proposals and why you should consider supporting ITEM 25:
1. Protects transparency and voter trust
The revised proposal removes misleading language regarding term limits and ensures voters receive clear and accurate information about proposed changes.
2. Prevents self-serving term expansions
ITEM 25 preserves the current two-term limit for sitting supervisors and ensures any future changes apply prospectively rather than benefiting current officeholders.
3. Safeguards independent county operations
The revised measure removes provisions that would allow political influence over county staff, contracting, and purchasing decisions.
4. Strengthens truly independent oversight
ITEM 25 maintains accountability reforms while establishing independent auditing protections free from political pressure.
5. Removes unlawful and confusing provisions
The revised proposal eliminates language concerning constitutional offices that are by law outside the authority of the county so not to create legal confusion and mislead voters.
Good government reforms should be honest, transparent, and designed to serve the public interest, not create confusion or expand political power.
Community voices matter, and public testimony will help shape this process. We respectfully encourage you to make your own decision whether you want to join DA Stephan in supporting ITEM 25 at the May 19 Board of Supervisors meeting.
There are several ways to participate:
Submit a written comment: https://sdcounty.granicusideas.com/meetings/2282-board-of-supervisors/agenda_items?
Register to provide testimony by phone or in person: https://publiccomment.sandiegocounty.gov/
More information about participating in Board meetings: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/bos/comment-at-board-meetings.html?
San Diego residents deserve reforms built on clarity, accountability, and public trust.
WATCH the full livestream as County leaders discuss the proposal and the importance of accountability, transparency, and good governance for San Diego County residents: https://youtube.com/live/p6Ff1j3ale4?feature=share
