Planning director Rich Hillis announces departure; commissioners and staff praise his tenure

Planning Director Rich Hillis told the San Francisco Planning Commission on May 15 that he will step down in the coming months after roughly 20 years in city service and about five years as director. Commissioners and several speakers used commission comments to thank Hillis for his service and to highlight major initiatives during his tenure.

Hillis’s remarks: Hillis said he had a long career with the city, served many years with the department and commission, and recounted accomplishments including work on skate parks, Treasure Island, Octavia Boulevard, a recently adopted housing element, reforms that eased approval for code‑compliant housing and small business projects, creation of a community equity division, and broader permit reform work requested by the mayor. He said he plans to remain in the city and will take some time before deciding his next steps.

Commission response and highlights: Commissioners Braun, Imperial, Williams, McGarry and others praised Hillis’s leadership, his collaborative approach during difficult issues such as the COVID downturn and housing element work, and his humor and professionalism. Remarks referenced the director’s role in process reforms, community planning, and the department’s institutional knowledge. Commissioners noted Hillis’s departure will be a loss but expressed confidence in staff and commitment to ongoing work.

Why it matters: Director turnover affects department leadership at a moment when the city is progressing numerous housing, zoning and permit‑reform initiatives. Commissioners and staff said they expect the department’s work to continue under career staff and a future director.

Ending Hillis said he intends to remain involved in the city in some capacity and joked about personal plans; commissioners said there will be time for formal tributes and transition arrangements before his departure.