Commissioner Lisonbee resists pressure to derail DGO revision process in community outreach

In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, significant discussions centered around the ongoing revision of the Department General Orders (DGO) related to police policies. The meeting highlighted the complexities of community outreach and the balance between public engagement and timely policy development.

The commission had initially planned a robust community outreach program to ensure transparency in the DGO revision process. However, the mayor's office intervened, proposing that the Human Rights Commission (HRC) lead the outreach efforts. This decision was welcomed due to the HRC's expertise and resources. Nonetheless, the mayor's office also suggested delaying the formation of working groups until the outreach was complete, raising concerns among some commissioners about potential delays in the policy revision process.

A compromise was ultimately reached, allowing for two working group meetings in August, followed by a pause in September for the HRC's outreach program. This approach aims to balance community input with the need for timely policy development.

Tensions arose when a commissioner was asked to deliver a speech questioning the legitimacy of the working groups, which he found disingenuous. He expressed concerns about using community engagement as a pretext to delay policy discussions without accountability. This situation underscores the challenges faced by commissioners in navigating political pressures while striving to serve the community effectively.

During the meeting, the commissioner also addressed the time commitment required for his role, noting that he dedicates between four to twenty hours a week to his responsibilities, all for a modest remuneration of $100 per month. This revelation highlights the often-overlooked dedication of public officials who work tirelessly on critical issues affecting the community.

As the DGO revision process continues, the commission's commitment to transparency and community involvement remains a focal point, with the next steps involving further outreach and the resumption of working group meetings in October. The outcome of these discussions will be pivotal in shaping police policies in San Francisco County, reflecting the community's needs and concerns.