(BCN) -- In a split decision, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors moved forward with the option to make a long-term appointment for the next sheriff during a special meeting Tuesday.

"Coming to this decision was very difficult," said Supervisor Ray Mueller. "It really comes down to trying to give the department the ability and the best chance to heal."

Tuesday's meeting comes two weeks after the board unanimously ousted elected Sheriff Christina Corpus on Oct. 14. Undersheriff Dan Perea, who was hired by Corpus, has assumed the sheriff's duties but won't be elevated to the title of interim sheriff.

San Mateo County is the first in California to remove a sheriff chosen by voters. Without any precedent to act as a guide, the Board was hunting for direction.

One route is appointing

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