San Francisco Building Inspection Commission caps remote public comment at 60 minutes

The San Francisco Building Inspection Commission voted unanimously April 19 to cap the total time for remote public comment at 60 minutes per agenda item.

Commissioners debated a staff-cited “standard” of 20 minutes for the total remote public-comment period before settling on a longer default after several members voiced concern that a strict short cap could limit participation. Deputy City Attorney Peter Mlynich urged the commission to adopt a clear standing rule rather than routinely extending time at meetings, saying that a standing policy reduces the appearance of impropriety.

Commissioner (speaker S2) moved to set a 60-minute cap for remote public comment; a colleague seconded the motion. Jerry Drattler, a frequent public commenter, told the commission the change addresses “a solution for a problem that doesn't exist,” saying the planning commission reduces individual speaker time when needed during large turnouts.

The motion passed on a roll-call vote with all commissioners present voting yes. Commissioners and staff noted the cap is adjustable: the commission may extend remote comment at a meeting if circumstances warrant.

The commission chair said the change will be reflected in future agendas with language explaining the time allotment and the commission's discretion to extend comment periods when necessary.