Taxpayers group names new permanent leader, after nearly a year without one

Former San Diego City Councilmember Mark Kersey was named chief executive Tuesday of the San Diego County Taxpayers Association, a nonprofit that has focused in recent years on supporting or opposing local bond measures and other proposed tax increases.

Kersey’s tenure begins just in time for the 2026 election cycle, which includes the June 2 primary and the November general election.

Kersey, a former Republican who is now an independent, represented north inland District 5 from 2012 to 2020 on the city council, where his most notable accomplishment was intensifying the city’s focus on its backlog of delayed infrastructure projects.

Kersey’s appointment comes as the taxpayers association faces financial challenges, including structural deficits.

Taxpayers association officials said Tuesday that he would be a perfect fit for their organization.

“His experience, knowledge, communication skills and ability to maneuver the region’s political landscape were immediately and enthusiastically recognized by the board,” said board chair Mike McLaughlin in a news release. “We found just the right person at just the right time.”

Kersey takes over for longtime chief e...