Breaking: Dan McAllister, Longtime san Diego County Treasurer-Tax collector, Dies at 74
San Diego County is mourning the loss of Dan McAllister, the veteran treasurer-tax collector who retired in August. He died Wednesday morning at age 74,and the cause of death has not been disclosed.
A 23-Year Steward of Public Finances
McAllister led the office from 2002 to 2025, overseeing property tax collections, the county’s $18 billion investment pool, and the administration of more than $1.5 billion in deferred compensation programs. His tenure shaped how the county managed billions in tax dollars each year.
Leadership that Built Confidence
Under his watch, the treasurer-tax collector’s office earned triple-A ratings and maintained a 99% tax collection rate for consecutive years. These achievements ensured critical funding for county operations and public safety.
Tributes from Colleagues
current treasurer-tax collector Larry Cohen, appointed last month after McAllister’s retirement, called him a model of public service. He described McAllister as passionate, tireless, and relentlessly focused on the taxpayer.
McAllister’s influence extended beyond his official duties. He served on the San Diego County Employees Retirement Association and CalTRUST,led the State Association of County Retirement Systems,and sat on the boards of the Peace Corps and Habitat for Humanity.he chaired the San Diego Convention Center Corporation and contributed to the San Diego Unified School District’s Special Audit and Finance Committee. He was involved with the Jackie Robinson YMCA, the New Americans Museum, and the Kim Center for Social Balance.
Personal Reflections from the Office
Cohen offered condolences to McAllister’s family, noting his affection for his son and daughter and his pride in his team. “Dan will be remembered for his leadership, mentorship, and warm wit.He will be dearly missed.”
Career Background
Before taking on the treasurer-tax collector role, McAllister worked as a financial consultant and investment broker, building a career in both public and private finance.
Key Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dan mcallister |
| Role | San Diego county Treasurer-Tax Collector |
| Tenure | 2002-2025 (23 years) |
| Major responsibilities | Property tax collections; $18B investment pool; $1.5B deferred compensation program |
| Achievements | Triple-A ratings; 99% tax collection rate in consecutive years |
| other roles | SD County Employees Retirement Association; CalTRUST; President,State Association of County Retirement Systems; Peace Corps; Habitat for Humanity; Chair,SD Convention Center Corporation; SD Unified School District Special Audit & Finance Committee; Jackie Robinson YMCA; New Americans Museum; Kim Center for Social Balance |
| Death | Wednesday morning; age 74; cause not disclosed |
Reader Questions
1) What legacy should public finance leaders strive for in maintaining taxpayer trust? 2) Which lessons from mcallister’s career should guide future county officials?
Share memories or condolences in the comments to honor his public service.
