San Francisco Commission honors Miguel Bustos for impactful 13-year service

In a recent meeting of the San Francisco Commission on Community Investment and Infrastructure, significant discussions centered around local hiring policies and the commendation of outgoing commissioner Miguel Bustos. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure that public projects benefit local communities, particularly through the promotion of local hiring and support for small businesses.

A key topic of discussion was the commission's commitment to a 50% local hire policy for public projects. Commissioners expressed disappointment that the school district, one of the city's largest landowners, had not fully embraced this policy. The urgency to hold public agencies accountable for utilizing local resources was emphasized, with calls for the school district to adopt policies that would ensure local residents benefit from public funds. One commissioner articulated the sentiment that it is disheartening to have to urge agencies to do the right thing, underscoring a desire for a future where such accountability is inherent.

The meeting also included a resolution to commend Miguel Bustos for his extensive service on the commission, where he has played a pivotal role since 2009. His leadership has been instrumental in overseeing significant projects that have enhanced the economic vitality and quality of life in San Francisco. Bustos has been recognized for his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly in securing contracts for small, local, minority, and women-owned businesses. His advocacy for local hiring practices has led to the sponsorship of numerous individuals into trade unions, creating pathways for employment and community upliftment.

As the meeting concluded, the commission voted unanimously to adopt the resolution recognizing Bustos's contributions, marking the end of an era for a commissioner whose impact on the community has been profound. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that public investments translate into tangible benefits for local residents, reinforcing the importance of community engagement in public policy. The commission's next steps will likely involve continued advocacy for local hiring practices and the implementation of policies that prioritize community needs in future projects.