News & Columns > Michael P. Neufeld > Supervisors Take Oath of Office

Supervisors Take Oath of Office

Neil Derry Seated As Third District Representative

By Michael P. Neufeld
Tuesday, December 2, 2008

San Bernardino, CA - "My goal is to improve services to the people of the Third District through; public safety, code enforcement, and economic development," new county supervisor Neil Derry said following his swearing-in. "Partnerships," he said, "are necessary if we are going to move forward."

"I look forward to changing the culture of our county, through innovation and technology," Derry added during brief remarks. He also reported progress on his pledge to create a county ethics commission, saying he has been working closely with Chairman Biane, and expects to bring forth a proposal next month.

Newly elected Third District Supervisor Neil Derry took the oath of office December 1 administered by Judge Steve Malone. (Photo by Michael P. Neufeld.)

Derry's oath of office was administered by Judge Steve Malone, and he was welcomed to the dais by Chairman Paul Biane. Returning First District Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt was sworn in by Judge James R. McDonald, and Fifth District Supervisor Josie Gonzales recited the oath of office which was administered by her oldest daughter, Laraissa Ann Gill.

The new supervisor took the time to thank his new colleagues for approving his staff, so they could all be on the job December 1. One of those previously approved was the mountain field representative, Dr. Jerry Lemke from Sugarloaf. Lemke is a partner in the Evergreen International Seafood and Steak Restaurant in Big Bear Lake.

Dr. Jerry Lemke from Sugarloaf is the newly appointed mountain field representative for Third District Supervisor Neil Derry. (Photo by Michael P. Neufeld.)

"I am confident that this newly configured Board of Supervisors is up to the task of making the tough choices, and providing the insightful leadership, that will be necessary to bring us through this crisis," Chairman Biane told a standing room only audience. "Supervisors Mitzelfelt, Derry, Ovitt, Gonzales, and I will make a great team."

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors includes Brad Mitzelfelt, Paul Biane, Neil Derry, Chairman Gary Ovitt and Vice Chair Josie Gonzales. (Photo by Michael P. Neufeld.)

"We have to continue to work on solutions to our problems," Supervisor Mitzelfelt said, citing as an example the county's efforts to address the foreclosure crisis. "We're doing better, but we can do a much better job."

"I am honored that, through the voting process, you have given me this awesome opportunity. You give me the power to speak 'in the name of the people', to intercede and make policy on issues that matter to each of you," Supervisor Gonzales stated during her prepared remarks.

"Everyday as San Bernardino County Supervisor is a new and exciting adventure," Gonzales added.

"New day, new faces, new challenges. We look to the future with hope and anticipation," said Vice Chairman Gary Ovitt, who represents the Fourth District.

A reception followed the ceremony, in the Robert B. Rigney Rotunda of the San Bernardino County Government Center.