San Mateo County voters have made their voices heard, decisively passing Measure A, which grants the Board of Supervisors the authority to remove a sheriff from office for cause. As reported by the County of San Mateo, Supervisors Ray Mueller and Noelia Corzo expressed their gratitude to the community during a news conference yesterday. "The voters have passed Measure A by an overwhelming majority," Mueller stated, emphasizing the importance of the democratic process.

The new charter amendment, Section 412.5, languishes until the final vote count and results are certified, which could take up to 40 days. Mueller assured residents that the county would establish clear procedures for a public, impartial, and lawful removal process once enacted. Corzo highlighted the commitment to transparency, delineating the steps before the amendment becomes active: certification of results, Board's approval, and a waiting period of 10 days.

Measure A specifies causes for the removal of a sheriff, including violations of law related to duties, neglect of duties, misappropriation of public funds, and obstruction of an investigation. Corzo outlined the subsequent formalities, where the sheriff would receive a written statement of charges and the opportunity to respond in writing or in person during the hearing.

Underlining the gravity of the responsibility, Corzo assured, as per the County of San Mateo, "We deeply value the Sheriff’s Office and the important role it plays in ensuring public safety in our county." Both supervisors ensured continued uninterrupted services by the Sheriff's Office throughout the transitional period, swiftly moving forward in the public's best interest.