San Francisco supervisors urged to place retirees' benefits amendment on November ballot

In the heart of San Francisco's city hall, a passionate plea echoed through the chambers as advocates for retired city workers gathered to address the Board of Supervisors. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, was marked by heartfelt testimonies from those fighting for the restoration of benefits that many believe were rightfully earned but have been eroded over time.

Leading the charge was the president of Protect Our Benefits, who emphasized the urgency of placing a charter amendment on the November ballot. "We've been fighting this for 11 years," they stated, referencing a recent appellate court ruling that underscored the need for legislative action to be decided by city voters. The speaker urged the board to honor the legacy of Nancy Jin, a founding member of the advocacy group, and to recognize the struggles of retirees facing financial hardships due to inflation.

Tim O'Brien, representing the retired firefighters and spouses association, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the plight of surviving spouses who now rely on family support due to diminished retirement incomes. "Time has eroded our numbers," he lamented, calling for the board to pass the charter amendment to restore the supplemental cost-of-living benefits that were promised in 1996.

Gus Vallejo, president of IFPTE Local 21, also took to the podium, recalling the promises made during the original ballot measure. "It's time for fairness. It's time for equity," he urged, imploring the board to uphold the commitments made to retirees. His words resonated with the audience, many of whom shared personal stories of loss and struggle, including Denise Mayfield, who spoke emotionally about her mother’s lifelong activism for retirees.

As the meeting progressed, the urgency of the situation became increasingly clear. Advocates stressed that the current economic climate, characterized by high inflation and rising living costs, necessitated immediate action. The collective call to action was not just about restoring benefits; it was about honoring the sacrifices of those who served the city and ensuring a dignified retirement for all.

With the clock ticking toward the November ballot, the advocates left the meeting hopeful yet anxious, their voices united in a quest for justice and equity for San Francisco's retired city workers. The outcome of this initiative could reshape the financial futures of many, making it a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for workers' rights in the city.