San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector Search Nears Final Stage with Public Forum
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The search for a new County Treasurer-Tax Collector is entering its final phase, with the public invited to meet the four finalists during a community event on Thursday, October 30. The appointment will fill a critical role overseeing billions in county funds and tax revenue.
Public Engagement Planned for Finalists
The informal event will be held at 5:30 p.m. in the Campus Center Chambers at the County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa, located at 5520 Overland Ave., San Diego, 92123. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with each candidate in small group or one-on-one conversations, gaining insight into their qualifications and visions for the office.
Selection Process Following McAllister’s Retirement
The Board of Supervisors narrowed the field to four finalists following a public hearing on September 30. This selection was made from a pool of 11 applicants who sought to succeed Dan McAllister, who retired on August 2. The appointed individual will serve until January 4, 2027, at which point an election will be held to determine a successor for a subsequent four-year term.
Candidate Presentations and Board Vote
Following the community forum, each finalist will present their qualifications to the Board of Supervisors in a second hearing. Candidates will each have three minutes to deliver an oral presentation, followed by a question-and-answer session with the Supervisors. A successful candidate must secure at least three votes from the Board members, with all votes being publicly announced.
Scope of the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office
The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office plays a vital role in San Diego County’s financial health. The office is responsible for collecting over $9.1 billion in property taxes annually, as well as the transient occupancy tax and the cannabis business tax from businesses operating in the unincorporated areas of the county.
The treasury division manages the County’s investment pool, which fluctuates between $10.2 and $18.8 billion in assets each year. Furthermore, the Treasury acts as the paying agent for all 42 school districts within the region.
Beyond tax collection and investment, the office also oversees the County’s $2.7 billion Deferred Compensation Program – encompassing 401(a), 457(b), and Roth plan options – for County employees. This includes reconciling payroll reports, approving financial transactions, and collaborating closely with Human Resources and payroll departments.
The upcoming appointment represents a significant decision for San Diego County, as the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office is central to the region’s fiscal stability and responsible financial management.
