Supervisor Nora Vargas was unanimously voted in as the new County Board of Supervisors Chair this morning. Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer was chosen as Vice Chair and Supervisor Joel Anderson will serve as Chair Pro Tem.
Supervisor Nathan Fletcher chose not to seek a third term as County Board Chair while he considers a run for state senate. As he was sworn in for his second term on the board, he told media he was strongly supporting Vargas’ bid to become the new chair. He made the nominations Monday morning.
In a statement, Supervisor Fletcher said he believes it is important to recognize the ability of others to serve in leadership roles; and when possible present them with the opportunity to take up the mantle, which is why he made the nominations. He praised Vargas, “she is an effective and driven person with an unmatched level of care and compassion for our community,” and Lawson-Remer for thoughtfully evaluating every action and keeping the board moving forward.
Vargas and Lawson-Remer have forged a strong working partnership over their first two years in office, co-authoring a myriad of legislative priorities including landmark proposals for developing a Regional Decarbonization Framework, creating County Environmental Sustainability Plans, and a Green Jobs Program for San Diego Youth, as well as initiatives protecting Reproductive Freedom, advancing Criminal Justice Reform and focusing on Housing Affordability.
Under Fletcher’s leadership, the board focused on mental health and addiction treatment, boosting homeless services, all while tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. Lawson-Remer promised to expand on his groundwork and focus new attention on coastlines harmed by climate change.
“In 2023, this Board will work to protect our beaches and coastlines, tackle climate change, make meaningful progress helping our unhoused population, continue expanding access to behavioral healthcare, support workers and working families, and take on the deadly fentanyl crisis,” said Vice Chair Terra Lawson-Remer.
Supervisor Nora Vargas became the first Latina, first immigrant, and first woman of color to lead the County in its 137-year history.
“I’m honored to serve the residents of San Diego County as Chairwoman in 2023 and look forward to working with my colleague Vice Chair Terra Lawson-Remer,” said Supervisor Nora Vargas. “We have a lot of work ahead to make sure everyone in our communities has enough food to eat and a roof over their heads. We must continue to work so that everyone has access to essential county services that provide health care and resources. United we will work together to build a better county for all.”
She said her priorities are homelessness, housing, health equity, economic prosperity and preparing the county for the future.
