County’s Assessor-Recorder, former Senator Bob Dutton, dies at 71

The San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder’s office shared the news of Senator Bob Dutton’s (ret) passing over the weekend. Dutton was 71.

In 2014, Senator Dutton was elected as San Bernardino County’s Assessor-Recorder, and appointed County Clerk. His philosophy was to ensure San Bernardino County property owners received fair, accurate and timely property valuations.

Leading a department of 250 dedicated county employees, he led by example, treating people fairly and taking pride in providing excellent customer service. He championed veterans, created fraud prevention measures, and had a strong working relationship with county leaders and community stakeholders. He brought integrity and respect to the office.

Senator Dutton served in the California State Legislature and earned many accolades for his knowledge and political acumen. He was elected to California’s 63rd State Assembly District in 2002. He won election to the State Senate in 2004, where he served two terms representing San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. He was the lead negotiator for transportation and housing issues. He was unanimously selected as Senate Republican Leader in 2010, and served on vital State Senate posts such as Vice-Chair of the Rules Committee, Vice-Chair of the Budget and Fiscal Review Committee, and a member of Appropriations. As Senate Republican Leader, he was committed to fiscal responsibility and he fought tirelessly to defend taxpayers in every negotiation.

“RC Bob” as he was known throughout the community, was a nickname given to him because of his love, dedication, and service to Rancho Cucamonga. He was elected to the Rancho Cucamonga City Council in 1998. He led the fight to eliminate the city’s Utility Tax, which was abolished in 2001. A resident for 50 years, he was actively involved with numerous local charities, always giving back and volunteering his time. He opened a real estate investment and management firm with his father, Dutton & Associates, Inc., located in Rancho Cucamonga and served as a board member and President for the Rancho Cucamonga Chamber of Commerce.

Senator Dutton received many honors including Legislator of the Year by the California League of Cities, the California State Sheriff’s Association, the California Small Business Association and the California Small Business Roundtable. He also served on numerous community and civic organizations including the YMCA, Red Cross, the Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation, and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Council. Senator Dutton’s favorite and most beloved volunteer activity was coaching his daughter’s fast-pitch softball team and helping many athletes receive scholarships to play collegiate sports.

Senator Dutton leaves behind his loving wife of over 40 years, Andrea, daughter, Kara, and parents, Ted & Jo Dutton. Funeral services or memorial ceremonies are being planned and will be announced to the community.