Supervisor Chan tables charter amendment on splitting appointing powers after public comment

SAN FRANCISCO — The Rules Committee on Monday paused a proposed charter amendment that would shift how the city allocates appointments to boards and commissions, after the measure’s sponsor said more public outreach and reworking are needed.

Supervisor Connie Chan, the chief sponsor, told the committee the proposal was intended to create "checks and balances" and an independent city administrator to improve delivery of city services. Chan said supporters nonetheless raised concerns that the draft did not go far enough to balance executive power and that substantial civic education would be necessary before asking voters to act.

Several callers during public comment voiced mixed views. Catherine Howard said she supported efforts to "add checks and balances to some of the most important commissions," while other speakers, including Jordan Davis, argued the measure should be strengthened so that boards are majority-appointed by the Board of Supervisors or some commissions are elected. Eileen Bokin urged cutting the number of affected commissions from 18 to a smaller set.

Chair Aaron Peskin called for a vote on Chan’s motion to table the item (to "continue to the call of the chair"). Clerk Victor Young recorded the roll call; the motion passed and the amendment was tabled.

The committee did not adopt specific substantive changes on the floor; the sponsor said she intends to regroup with stakeholders and bring a revised proposal in the future.