Jeff Rivero recall, Atwater, California (2012)

Historical recalls
Recall news
Recall laws
Recall portal

An effort to recall Jeff Rivero from his position as a member of the city council of Atwater, California, was launched in January 2012. The recall effort has been on hold since late February 2012. Rivero was elected to his seat in November 2010.

Reasons for recall

Recall organizers disagree with Rivero's decision to support the city's reversion to a city-run fire department. The city's fire protection services are currently contracted to Cal Fire. Danielle Buzbee, who is married to a Cal Fire employee, is a leader of the recall effort. Jeff Rivero hasn't made a final decision as to whether to stay with Cal Fire or move back to a city-run fire department, but he says, "A special interest group that has obvious self-profiting intentions will neither bully me nor scare me into voting their way."

At a February 2012 city council meeting, the city moved forward with a new Cal Fire contract, and the recall effort was halted.

Recall opponents

Fred Warchol, a city planning commissioner and supporter of Rivero's, says the recall is an attempt by the CDF Firefighters Union to protect its interests.

Path to the ballot

Recall supporters have started the paperwork necessary to launch a recall effort. They hope to have the effort underway by June 2012, which is when Cal Fire would leave Atwater if their contract is terminated.

In late January 2012, recall organizer Danielle Buzbee said recall supporters had gathered the 22 signatures necessary for the intent to circulate a recall petition.

See also

• Merced County, California ballot measures
• Political recall efforts, 2012
• Recall campaigns in California