The San Francisco Commission on the Environment held a poignant meeting on July 4, 2025, where they honored Commissioner Heather Stephenson with the Environmental Service Award as she prepares to retire after 12 impactful years. This recognition not only marks her final appearance as a sitting commissioner but also celebrates her significant contributions to environmental policy in San Francisco.

Vice President Wong led the tribute, highlighting Stephenson's leadership during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Her tenure has been characterized by a commitment to equity and collaboration, fostering partnerships between the environment department and various community organizations. Wong noted that her efforts have been instrumental in shaping key initiatives, such as the climate action plan and the department's racial equity plan.

Commissioner Hunter praised Stephenson's empathetic leadership style, emphasizing her dedication to the city and its residents. Other commissioners echoed these sentiments, reflecting on her ability to inspire and guide them throughout her service. Stephenson herself expressed gratitude for the award and shared her journey from uncertainty in her role to becoming a driving force in environmental advocacy.

The meeting also included public comments, with community members expressing appreciation for Stephenson's tireless work, particularly in food waste reduction initiatives. Her leadership has helped San Francisco make strides in sustainability, with commitments from various retailers to cut food waste significantly by 2030.

As the meeting transitioned to staff introductions, the commission welcomed new members to the environment department, signaling a continued commitment to enhancing San Francisco's environmental efforts. The discussions underscored the importance of leadership and collaboration in addressing the city's environmental challenges, with a clear focus on maintaining momentum in ongoing initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a sense of gratitude for Stephenson's legacy and a collective commitment to advancing San Francisco's environmental goals in the future.