A local congressional staffer was chosen as San Diego County’s next treasurer-tax collector Tuesday, beating out three other finalists.
Lawrence Cohen, who has spent the last five years as chief of staff to Rep. Juan Vargas, a San Diego Democrat, replaces Dan McAllister, who left the position on Aug. 2. Cohen will finish McAllister’s term, which expires in January 2027.
In early October, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors picked Cohen, David Baker, Christian Peacox and Detra Williams as finalists from the 11 candidates who originally vied for the position.
The board interviewed the four finalists again Tuesday. The hopefuls also met with residents during an Oct. 30 community forum.
Baker and Williams both work in the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office. Baker is the chief deputy of tax collection, while Williams serves as the special functions manager. Peacox is the Carlsbad city treasurer.
Cohen received votes from Supervisors Paloma Aguirre, Monica Montgomery Steppe and Board Chair Terra Lawson-Remer. Supervisor Jim Desmond voted for Williams. Supervisor Joel Anderson didn’t participate in the selection process because he is considering running for the position next year.
The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office collects over $9.1 billion in property taxes annually, along with taxes from the cannabis business and transient occupancy taxes in unincorporated areas. The office also manages the county investment pool and acts as the paying agent for 42 school districts.
(PHOTO: County of San Diego)