Civilian Oversight Commission
Staffing
Civilian Oversight Commission
Linn Walsh, Deputy County Executive
County Executive's Office
(415) 473-2408
linn.walsh@marincounty.gov
Administered By
County of Marin
Purpose/Duties
The Civilian Oversight Commission's purpose is to initiate, build and maintain a trusting relationship between members of the public and the Marin County Sheriff’s Office through transparent, respectful, just, and accountable oversight that is rooted in public safety, justice, and accountability. The Commission will work in collaboration with the Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Inspector General to fulfill this purpose.
Civilian Oversight Commission will establish bylaws, oversee the hiring of an Inspector General, develop complaint procedures, ensure confidentiality, and engage in ongoing community outreach. It will also monitor the Sheriff's Office, review investigations, produce annual reports, issue subpoenas when necessary, and recommend additional duties for the Inspector General. Details regarding the Commissions Duties may be found in Section 2.37.020 of Ordinance 3824 (See link below).
Related Links
Qualifications
Commissioners should have a demonstrated interest in public service and/or experience serving the community. The Board of Supervisors shall endeavor to appoint at least one (1), but no more than two (2) Commissioner(s) who shall have previous law enforcement experience. The Commissioner(s) with law enforcement experience must also meet the following criteria:
a. They have not worked as a sworn law enforcement officer within the last four years, and they have not worked as a sworn law enforcement officer in Marin County within the last eight years.
b. They have certified that they have never engaged in serious misconduct (as defined in Penal Code§ 13510.8(b) or subsequent enactment) while serving as a sworn law enforcement officer.
c. They have never been employed as sworn law enforcement in the Marin County Sheriff's Office.
Term Length
Initially, the Board of Supervisors shall appoint four (4) Commissioners in accordance with Section 2.37.030 4. b. to serve a three (3) year term, three (3) Commissioners to serve a two (2) year term, and two (2) Commissioners to serve a one (1) year term. Thereafter, all Commissioner terms shall be three (3) years. Commissioners may serve a maximum of two (2) consecutive terms.
Number of Members
Five (5) of the nine (9) Commissioners shall be nominated and appointed by the Board of Supervisors, one for each supervisorial district. Residency shall be evaluated at the time of appointment only. Four (4) of the nine (9) Commissioners shall be appointed by the Board of Supervisors at-large.
Reimbursements For Expenses/Per Diem
Beginning October 1, 2022, a stipend will be available for members of boards and commissions who self-certify to household income below the County self-sufficiency standard. For more information or to apply to the stipend program, see the Board Stipends Program Webpage.
Time and Day of Meetings
The Commission shall determine their regular meeting schedule at their initial meetings. Their first public meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 25, 2025 in the Board Chambers, Room 330, 3501 Civic Center Drive.
How to Apply
There are no current openings on the Commission. When recruitment is opened, please access the Civilian Oversight Commission application here.