In a move to enhance transparency, San Diego County Supervisor Joel Anderson is set to propose a measure that would end the practice of holding secret subcommittee meetings. This initiative comes as a response to concerns about the lack of public insight into important policy discussions that have been taking place behind closed doors.
The proposal, to be presented on June 9, 2026aims to ensure that all subcommittee meetings are conducted with full public access, including publicly posted agendas, minutes, and recordings. This move is seen as a significant step towards open governmentallowing residents to better understand and participate in the policy-making process.
Addressing the Issue of Secret Meetings
Supervisor Anderson has expressed his concerns about the current practice of using ad-hoc subcommittees to conduct important public business without adequate public oversight. He emphasized that good government happens in the sunshineand that residents should not have to wonder where major policy decisions are being shaped.
One notable example of this practice involved Supervisors Terra Lawson-Remer and Monica Montgomery Steppewho formed a subcommittee in March to overhaul a program serving residents who cannot afford insurance and do not qualify for Medi-Cal. This subcommittee operated without publicly posted agendas, minutes, or recordings, despite influencing significant policy discussions.
The Proposed Transparency Measure
The proposed board policy would require that all subcommittee meetings be publicly noticed, with advance agendas, recordings, and minutes made available to the public. Additionally, all meeting materials would be accessible through a centralized county website. This measure aims to establish clear operational standards and accountability for all board-created ad hoc subcommittees.
Supervisor Anderson’s proposal also includes a requirement that any reforms discussed in these subcommittees be presented to the board within 60 days after the fiscal year 2026-27 budget is adopted. This ensures that the public has a timely opportunity to review and provide input on proposed changes.
The Impact on Public Participation
By bringing subcommittee meetings into the open, this measure aims to enhance public participation in the policy-making process. Residents would have the opportunity to follow discussions, provide feedback, and hold their elected officials accountable for the decisions that affect their lives.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote transparency and accountability in local government. It reflects a commitment to ensuring that the public has access to the information they need to engage meaningfully in the democratic process.
