UPDATE: The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors has just narrowed down the candidates for the county’s next sheriff, selecting three finalists from a pool of twelve applicants. This critical decision comes after the historic ousting of former Sheriff Christina Corpus, marking a significant shift in the leadership of the Sheriff’s Office.
The finalists include David Lazar, a retired assistant chief from the San Francisco Police Department; Kenneth Binder, interim police chief in Gilroy and former undersheriff of Santa Clara County; and Brian Wynn Huynh Travis, chief of police and director of public safety for the Solano Community College District. The board’s decision reflects an urgent need for stable leadership, overseeing approximately 800 employees and managing an operating budget of around $300 million.
The vacancy arose following serious allegations against Corpus, including conflict of interest and retaliation against deputies, which she denies. The board’s appointment process, enabled by Measure A, allows them to fill the position without a costly election, a unique opportunity that could reshape the future of law enforcement in the county.
All three candidates present diverse backgrounds and experiences that could bring new perspectives to the Sheriff’s Office during this tumultuous period. Lazar, who received unanimous support from the supervisors, emphasized his commitment to fostering internal leadership and ethical transparency. He remarked, “What they need is leadership that can develop, that can mentor, and that can bring up the next generation.”
Binder, who held the position of acting sheriff during a turbulent time in Santa Clara County, expressed his focus on restoring trust and stability. He stated, “I had a level of respect there where I was able to provide some stability to the organization.”
Travis, a San Mateo County native, highlighted his mission to demonstrate integrity and care within the Sheriff’s Office. With a military background and extensive public safety experience, he aims to “show our deputies that their dedication matters.”
A public question-and-answer session is set for 6 p.m. on November 10, 2023, where community members can engage with the candidates. With over 200 questions submitted already, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The board is expected to conduct final interviews and announce the new sheriff at 9 a.m. on November 12, 2023.
As San Mateo County navigates this pivotal moment, the choice of the new sheriff will be critical in addressing the challenges faced by the department and restoring confidence in law enforcement. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the community prepares to engage with the candidates and the Board of Supervisors finalizes its decision.
