Contra Costa Assessor Kramer won't seek re-election to 9th term

Assessor Gus Kramer to retire after over 30 years of public service

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Contra Costa County Assessor Gus Kramer announced he will not run for re-election to a ninth term, concluding more than three decades of public service to the residents of Contra Costa County. Kramer first served as the Martinez City Clerk when he was elected in 1986 and has been the County Assessor since 1994, overseeing significant modernization and improvements within the Assessor's Office.

Why it matters

Kramer's retirement marks the end of an era for the Contra Costa County Assessor's Office, which has seen stability and continuity under his leadership for over three decades. His departure opens up the position for new leadership and a potential shift in the office's direction and priorities.

The details

Kramer emphasized the contributions of several key members of his leadership team, including Assistant County Assessors Vince Robb and Peter Yu, as well as Assessor's Customer Services Coordinator Robin Cantu, in strengthening the office's service to the public. Kramer noted that their leadership, along with the dedication of the entire Assessor's Office staff, has helped bring the efficiency, professionalism, and public service of the office to an all-time high level.

  • Kramer first served in public office as the Martinez City Clerk when he was elected in 1986.
  • Kramer has been the Contra Costa County Assessor since 1994, serving eight consecutive terms over the past 32 years.
  • Kramer announced on March 6, 2026 that he will retire from his position as County Assessor in December 2026.

The players

Gus Kramer

Contra Costa County Assessor who has served in the position since 1994 and is now retiring after over 30 years of public service.

Vince Robb

Assistant County Assessor who Kramer has identified as a potential successor to take over the Assessor's Office.

Peter Yu

Assistant County Assessor who has been part of Kramer's leadership team.

Robin Cantu

Assessor's Customer Services Coordinator who has played an essential role in strengthening the office's service to the public.

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What they’re saying

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Contra Costa County. I am deeply grateful to the voters who placed their trust in me eight times over the past three decades. Their confidence and support have meant a great deal to me throughout my career.”

— Gus Kramer, Contra Costa County Assessor (contracostaherald.com)

“Vince Robb and Peter Yu have been exceptional partners in managing the complex responsibilities of the Assessor's Office, bringing professionalism, expertise, and a strong commitment to public service every day. Robin Cantu has also been instrumental in ensuring that our office maintains a high level of responsiveness and service for the public.”

— Gus Kramer, Contra Costa County Assessor (contracostaherald.com)

What’s next

The Contra Costa County Assessor's Office will need to prepare for a transition to new leadership, with Vince Robb identified as a potential successor to Kramer.

The takeaway

Gus Kramer's retirement marks the end of an era of stability and continuity in the Contra Costa County Assessor's Office, which has seen significant improvements and modernization under his 32-year tenure. The transition to new leadership will be an important moment for the office and the county as a whole.