Don Horsley

Retired sheriff Don Horsley, who opted to forgo his county supervisor salary while collecting a $200,000 pension after being elected to the board two years ago, began collecting a paycheck again this month.

Horsley's special salary waiver expired on Nov. 10 and Horsley decided to begin accepting payment, he announced Wednesday.

Horsley said he fulfilled his campaign commitment to avoid double-dipping but that his financial obligations recently increased significantly with the long-term medical care of his mother-in-law.

"I value the opportunity to work on behalf of the people of San Mateo County in my current role and greatly appreciate the standard compensation provided to elected officials," he said.

Supervisors earn approximately $115,000 annually plus another roughly $25,000 more in benefits. During his 2010 campaign, Horsley said he would forgo both if elected.

Horsley also collects a pension for 35 years in law enforcement, including 13 as the county sheriff. Horsley called himself "fortunate" to have the retirement plan and said his current supervisor position will not increase that amount in any way.

Horsley represents the Third District which includes San Carlos, Woodside, Pacifica, Half Moon Bay and Redwood Shores.

Warren Slocum, the incoming Fourth District supervisor, is facing the same pension and salary situation as Horsley. Slocum is the county's retired chief elections officer and assessor-county clerk-recorder. During the campaign, Slocum also promised not to accept a salary if elected.

Michelle Durand can be reached by email: michelle@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 102.