New responsibilities await Yolo County public officials

By JOSH FERNANDEZ/Democrat Staff Writer

A lunchtime reserved for the swearing in of Yolo County officials also served as a farewell for one beloved supervisor.

Frank Sieferman Jr. tipped his hat good-bye Monday to a crowd of more than 100 spectators who gathered in the atrium of the County Administration Building to watch the proceedings.

Of his service as supervisor, Sieferman said he had a tremendous experience working for the people he represented.

"It's never been about me," Sieferman said. "It's been about the people in Yolo County."

Sieferman's successor to the District 3 Supervisor seat, Matt Rexroad, was sworn into office with his daughter Abigail perched happily on his shoulder.

In a symbolic exchange to bridge a partnership between city and county officials,

Woodland Mayor Dave Flory officiated at Rexroad's swearing in.
Keeping his first promise as supervisor, Rexroad's speech was under three minutes. He simply stated "I'll do the best I can."

Stepping in as board chairwoman was Supervisor Mariko Yamada of Davis, who represents District 4, took her oath and said she hopes for a stronger future for the county.

"Let's all go forward today," Yamada said.

Helen M. Thomson was also sworn in for her second term as District 2 supervisor.

The presiding judge, Stephen L. Mock officiated the swearing in of judges Thomas Warriner, Doris Shockley and David Rosenberg.

Jeff Reisig, district attorney, who voters chose over Pat Lenzi of Davis was also sworn in by Yolo County Clerk/Recorder Freddie Oakley.

Reisig, whose wife stood right beside him as he took his oath, is known for his tough prosecution and focus on crime prevention. Reisig takes the reigns as district attorney as Dave Henderson retires after nearly two decades of service.


Yolo County Assessor Joel Butler adds a touch of humor by signing "Live Long and Prosper" from the old "Star Trek" series while being sworn in by Judge Dave Rosenberg. (Stacey J. Miller/Daily Democrat)
Some are curious as to how Reisig will handle the pending lawsuits that loom over the DA's office, which call into question the ethical standards of his predecessor.
"We have some great changes that will take place," Reisig said. "I'm ready to get to work."

Also sworn in was eight-year veteran of the office, Joel Butler.

Butler last year won in the race to become Yolo County Assessor amidst a campaign that saw allegations of political favors and threats of a lawsuit from then opponent and co-worker Bob Milbrodt.

Re-elected without opposition was Sheriff Ed Prieto, who was sworn in by his wife, Ramona, a deputy chief with the CHP. Prieto's daughter Dana Tello, who was recently sworn in as a deputy, also stood with her father as he took the oath.

"It's truly my honor being your sheriff," Prieto said.

Also re-elected were County Superintendent of Schools Jorge Ayala and Public Guardian Cass Sylvia. Both did not face opposition for re-election.

Auditor-Controller Howard Newens was sworn in as he takes on added responsibilities as Treasurer-Tax Collector.

Each sworn in official, either new or returning to office, seemed to express an excitement to get to work as servants to the county.

Perhaps Supervisor Thomson encapsulated the sentiment of the day:

"This is where the rubber hits the road," she said.