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Board approves two police commission nominees after on‑record debate over Joint Terrorism Task Force participation
Summary
The Board of Supervisors confirmed two mayoral nominees to the Police Commission amid extended questioning about whether the San Francisco Police Department should rejoin the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). One appointment passed 10–1 and the other unanimously.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted Sept. 11 to confirm two nominees to the Police Commission despite prolonged questioning about the department’s relationship with the Joint Terrorism Task Force and community concerns about surveillance of religious and ethnic groups.
The board confirmed Damali Taylor (item 25) by a 10–1 vote; Supervisor Fewer voted no. The board then confirmed Dion J. Brookter (item 26) unanimously, 11–0.
During committee questioning and on the floor, multiple supervisors pressed both nominees about whether they would support San Francisco rejoining the federal Joint Terrorism Task Force, a partnership that critics say previously enabled profiling of Muslim and immigrant communities. Nominees declined to commit to a specific vote without reviewing any proposed memorandum of understanding (MOU) and said they would consult community stakeholders before deciding.
Supervisor Kim pressed for a clear answer about whether nominees would support any MOU that required surveillance without probable cause based on race or religion; both nominees said they would not support surveilling people based on race or religion, and that they would consult community members and review written MOUs before taking a position. DJ Brookter said he would seek to work with communities and "iron out" any MOU language; Damali Taylor said she would need more information but stated she does not support surveilling people by race or religion.
Why it matters: The Police Commission sets policy oversight for SFPD. The JTTF issue touches on civil‑liberties concerns and trust between police and immigrant and religious communities. Nominees’ answers and supervisors’ questioning show community scrutiny of national security partnerships.
Votes and outcome: Item 25 (Damali Taylor) — approved 10–1 (Supervisor Fewer no). Item 26 (Dion J. Brookter) — approved 11–0.
Discussion points: Supervisors repeatedly requested nominees meet with community organizations including ACLU, Asian Law Caucus, CARE (Council on American‑Islamic Relations) and Arab Resource and Organizing Center before considering any re‑engagement with the JTTF. Several supervisors said they expect commissioners to defend civil liberties and to take strong positions if federal policy threatens residents.
Ending: Both nominees were congratulated and directed to continue community outreach as they prepared to assume duties on the Police Commission.
