LAFCO approves $427,685 proposed FY2021–22 budget; leaves flexibility for local initiatives

The San Francisco Local Agency Formation Commission on May 21 approved its proposed FY2021–22 general fund budget and work plan, voting unanimously to move the proposal forward for final approval at a special meeting.

Supervisor Marr moved to approve the proposed work plan and general fund budget in the amount of $427,685 and to request the statutory allocation of $341,240 from the City and County of San Francisco; Commissioner Singh seconded and a roll call recorded three ayes. Chair Chan noted the item would be finalized at a June 4 special meeting to meet the June 15 deadline for budget approval.

Executive Officer Brian Goble explained the work plan would cover June through December to bridge an executive officer transition. He described three main objectives: (1) continued oversight of Clean Power SF, (2) LAFCO oversight of the San Francisco Reinvestment Working Group to develop a business and governance plan for a municipal finance corporation or public bank, and (3) a limited role as project liaison on a proposed survey of app‑based workers in partnership with academic and labor partners.

Goble said the recommended general fund request is the statutory amount and that MOU funds with the SFPUC would be available for Clean Power SF‑related work: “The carry forward would be about, over $86,000...the total budget amount would be $427,685,” he said. Commissioners discussed a proposed policy analyst position to support public bank work; the clerk’s office confirmed LAFCO would cover the differential to upgrade an existing clerk position for one year and that the Board of Supervisors would make the final staffing decisions and candidate selection.

Public commenters again urged LAFCO to seek Board of Supervisors funding for a robust local clean‑energy build‑out plan and to include public broadband in planning, emphasizing workforce and environmental justice priorities. The motion to approve the budget passed unanimously.