Supervisor Aaron Peskin says he has entered alcohol treatment; board members offer public support

Supervisor Aaron Peskin told the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on June 15 that he has entered treatment for alcohol dependence and asked for the public27s and his colleagues27 support.

At a personal-privilege statement during the board27s meeting, Supervisor Aaron Peskin said, "I27ve entered treatment for alcohol dependence under the guidance of professionals, and I intend to stay in treatment as long as it takes to recover." He said medical staff recommended he continue to perform his duties while receiving care and that he is "profoundly sorry" for conduct he said he regrets.

Peskin27s statement followed earlier remarks by Board President Shamann Walton noting the board27s support for a colleague who "has courageously decided to seek help." Walton said the board would back Peskin on his path to recovery and praised the spirit of compassion the board aims to show.

Several supervisors and a stream of callers during the public-comment period voiced support. Supervisor Walton opened the board meeting by saying the board is "a restorative and compassionate board and community," and later formally recognized Peskin27s decision. During public comment numerous residents and neighborhood business owners urged colleagues to offer personal support and to avoid political attacks, saying Peskin27s record of constituent service warrants compassion.

The board did not take any formal action related to Peskin27s announcement. Peskin said he will remain in office and continue to perform his duties while in treatment. He apologized to colleagues and the public and said the experience is an opportunity to reflect on and temper his behavior.

The public reaction at the meeting ranged from expressions of personal support from longtime constituents to calls for privacy and respect; many callers praised Peskin27s legislative record and urged colleagues not to exploit his treatment for political ends. Several supervisors also used their time to extend condolences to colleagues who had personal losses noted earlier in the meeting.

Looking ahead, Peskin said he will stay in treatment "as long as it takes to recover" and will continue serving the city in the meantime. No disciplinary or ethics proceedings were announced in connection with his statement at the June 15 session.

Ending: Board members and callers repeatedly framed Peskin27s statement as a personal health matter and asked for compassion. The board's official business continued after the remarks, and Peskin remains an active member of the Board of Supervisors while in treatment.