Singh

Alfred Singh, following a 1986 accident which resulted in his disability, then applied to the Board of Retirement of the Imperial County Employees’ Retirement System (Board) for a service-connected disability, which application was denied by Board. Singh thereafter sought review of Board’s decision in the Imperial County Superior Court, which overturned the denial of disability retirement benefits to Singh.

Board, represented by Imperial County counsel, argues that a 1992 amendment to the California Constitution requires us to reverse the determination of the lower court and reinstate the determination of Board. For the reasons which follow, however, we reject the arguments advanced by Board, and we affirm the judgment entered in the superior court.

Statement of Facts

Singh was employed by Imperial County (County), working as an environmental health specialist III in the health department. Singh’s job description required him to perform inspections of swimming pools, food markets, restaurants, water systems, septic tanks, constructions sites, and landfills. Singh also had to possess a valid California driver’s license.

Singh regularly, with the knowledge and consent…