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California Automotive Business Coalition Meeting
June 10, 2009
MEETING TOPICS INCLUDED
Comments – Johan Gallo, CalABC President
BAR Status Update – Sherry Mehl, BAR Chief
BAR Enforcement update – Kristin Triepke, BAR Chief of Enforcement
BAR Green Shop Initiative – Ernie Rice, BAR Program Representative III
Legislative Update – Chris Walker, CalABC Legislative Advocate
White Paper on System Flushes/ Fluid Services – Johan Gallo, CalABC President
Review of White Paper – John Hurd, Facilitator
 Featured Speaker -- BAR Chief Sherry Mehl
As Chief of the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), Sherry Mehl oversees a government agency consisting of over 600 employees, 13 field offices and a budget of approximately $160 million. BAR is one of the nation’s premier consumer protection agencies dedicated to regulating the automotive repair marketplace and implementing an effective motor vehicle emissions reduction program.
Mehl recognizes the importance of continually educating and informing consumers about their rights and responsibilities in the automotive repair marketplace. She has also launched a major initiative designed to educate consumers about taking responsibility for helping to clean California’s air. This campaign is designed to both educate and engage consumers about the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and it's relationship to the air we breathe and the adverse health effects of poor air quality.
Prior to her appointment as Bureau Chief, Mehl served as Chief Deputy Director for the Department of Consumer Affairs. At DCA, she oversaw the regulation of thousands of people through dozens of boards and bureaus affecting a diverse range of professions including doctors, contractors, and accountants. She also has 12 years of experience as the executive officer of the Acupuncture Board and the Board of Behavioral Sciences.
Mehl has dedicated nearly 25 years to public service and has successfully implemented innovative services to Californians. At BAR, she reintroduced the Auto Body Inspection Program, which allows consumers to receive free inspections to verify the collision repair performed on their vehicles. She also successfully incorporated into the Smog Check Program major new tests designed to reduce tons of hydrocarbons from the air. Furthermore, Mehl implemented a campaign to aggressively identify unlicensed activity and substantially improve the processing times for licensure applications.
Mehl continues her quest to make a difference for the consumers she serves and the professions she regulates. She values her relationship with her employees and the contributions they make to the organization. Described by colleagues as a person of integrity, Mehl is a dynamic leader committed to improving the lives of the people of California. |
