Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder And Chief Elections Officer In SMC Will Not Seek Re-election

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — San Mateo County's long-serving Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder and Chief Elections Officer announced Wednesday that he will not seek re-election to a fifth term.

Mark Church’s decision means he will conclude three decades in elected public service when his current term ends in January 2027.

Church has served in his current role since 2010.

"Serving the people of San Mateo County has been the honor and privilege of my lifetime," Church said in a statement. "After three decades, I believe this is the right time to turn the page with gratitude and deep appreciation for the community I have been so fortunate to serve.”

His career began in his hometown of Millbrae, where he was elected to the City Council in 1995, serving as Mayor from 1997 to 1998. He went on to serve three terms on the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, from 2000 to 2010, before being elected to his current office.

As Chief Elections Officer, Church led California's first countywide all-mail ballot election in 2015. His efforts also resulted in the launch of California’s first remote accessible vote-by-mail system for voters with disabilities. His department has received national recognition for its equity and inclusion efforts in elections.

Church modernized operations as Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder, managing San Mateo County's $340 billion assessment roll. He upgraded to a modern property assessment system and a 24/7 website, and shifted the Clerk-Recorder's office from paper to electronic recording, resulting in 76 percent digital documents.

“Public service is about leaving institutions stronger than you found them,” Church said. “I’m proud that this department is well-positioned for the future with state-of-the-art technology and deeply committed to serving the public with excellence.”

Prior to his time in the Assessor's office, as a County Supervisor, Church was a leader in sustainability, spearheading the creation of the county’s Green Business Program, the Green Building Program and helping establish the Department of Housing.

Church, who practiced law before entering public office, expressed deep gratitude for the staff in his department, noting their dedication has earned the organization 22 local, state, national, and international awards for excellence in innovation and customer service.

Church emphasized that he remains focused on completing his term with the same energy and commitment that has defined his career.