San Francisco's Ethics Commission is poised to enhance the integrity of city governance following a significant meeting where a proposed ballot measure was discussed. The measure, set for voter consideration on March 5, 2024, aims to amend the city's campaign and government conduct code, introducing stricter regulations on gifts and ethics training for city officials.

The proposed changes come in response to a series of investigations into unethical conduct among city officials, which highlighted the need for stronger oversight. The reforms include expanding prohibitions on gifts to city officers, requiring ethics training for all individuals who file Form 700, and imposing personal liability on officials who fail to disclose certain relationships. Additionally, the measure seeks to establish rules on incompatible activities and mandates supermajority approval from both the Ethics Commission and the Board of Supervisors for future amendments to ethics-related ordinances.

Acting Policy and Legislative Affairs Manager Michael Kenny emphasized that these reforms have been a top priority for the commission over the past three years. The proposed amendments are designed to strengthen existing rules and ensure that city officials cannot accept gifts from those doing business with their departments. The commission has engaged in extensive discussions with stakeholders, including city bargaining units, to refine the proposals based on feedback.

Concerns were raised by the Department of Public Health (DPH) regarding specific provisions that could impact employees who also work for contracting entities like UCSF. In response, the commission proposed amendments to narrow the scope of the financial interest rule, ensuring it applies only to key decision-makers and clarifying that employment with other government entities does not constitute a financial interest.

The commission is set to vote on placing the measure on the ballot, with the expectation that it will lead to a more transparent and accountable city government. If approved by voters, the changes will take effect after a year, allowing time for further stakeholder engagement and regulatory adjustments.

This initiative marks a critical step towards restoring public trust in San Francisco's governance, reflecting the commission's commitment to ethical standards and accountability in public service.