LAFCO elects Hillary Ronan as chair and Hope Williams as vice chair

In a pivotal meeting of the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) for San Francisco, Chair Connie Chan announced her decision to step down, paving the way for new leadership. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, marked a significant transition as the commission prepares to elect a new chairperson and vice chairperson following recent changes in its membership.

Commissioner Chan, who has led LAFCO since 2021, expressed gratitude for her tenure and highlighted the commission's achievements, including securing nearly $800,000 in a memorandum of understanding with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. She emphasized the importance of LAFCO as an independent body that plays a crucial role in addressing housing and community issues in the city.

During the meeting, Chan nominated Commissioner Hillary Ronan to take over as chair, praising her extensive experience and knowledge of city operations. Chan also nominated Commissioner Hope Williams for the vice chair position, recognizing her thoughtful contributions and commitment to equity in community discussions.

Commissioner Dean Preston seconded both nominations, commending Chan for her leadership amidst the complexities of city governance. He noted LAFCO's impressive accomplishments despite its limited budget and staff, underscoring the need for continued support from city leaders.

As the meeting progressed, public comments were invited, allowing community members to engage with the commission's work. The election of the new chair and vice chair is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to LAFCO's initiatives in the coming year.