2012 Community Economic Profile
Government
County Government
The Board of Supervisors serves as the legislative body of San Luis Obispo County for the planning and provision of services related to public needs and the requirements of state and federal laws. California law provides for five Supervisors to be elected by district. Each Supervisor is elected for a four-year term. Two of the Supervisors' terms are staggered so that all Supervisors are not standing for election at the same time. As the elected representative of the people of San Luis Obispo County, the Board of Supervisors establishes overall county priorities and sets policy. 1055 Monterey Street, SLO, Ca. @ the Government Center Board Chambers. 805.781-5450.
City Government Structure
The City of San Luis Obispo is a Charter City. This means we have more “local home rule” authority than cities that incorporate under the “general laws” of the State of California. The City Charter is the City’s “Constitution,” and any changes must be approved by the voters. While the City was first incorporated in 1856, we did not become a Charter City until 1876.
Form of Government
As set forth in the City Charter, our city operates under the “Council-Mayor-Administrative Officer” form of government. The City Council has the authority to make and enforce all laws and regulations with respect to municipal affairs, subject only to the limitations of the City Charter and the State Constitution.
Elected Officers
The elected officers of the City are the Mayor and four Council Members. Council Members are elected at-large and serve overlapping, four-year terms. The Mayor is also elected at-large for a two-year term, and serves as an equal member of the Council. These terms provide for three vacancies at each City election, which is held in November of even-numbered years. Terms begin on the first day in December following the election.
Police Department
Deborah Linden, Chief of Police. 1042 Walnut St. SLO, Ca 805.781.7088
The San Luis Obispo Police Department consists of 92 employees, 64 of which are sworn police officers. The Department is divided into two bureaus, with a Police Captain commanding each.
Fire Department
Charlie Hines, Fire Chief. 2160 Santa Barbara Ave., SLO, Ca. 805.781.7380
There are 55 full time employees of the San Luis Obispo City Fire Department, 45 are firefighters with emergency response capabilities. There are 13 Captains, 15 Engineers, and 12 Firefighters. The remaining 11 of these are administrative and fire prevention bureau personnel along with 1 mechanic.
Fire Insurance Classification
City Fire Protection Class: 2
Adjacent unincorporated area rating: varies from 7 to 9 in most areas
Breakdown of Taxes:
City Sales Tax: 7.75%
County Sales Tax: 7.75%
State: 7.25%
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