Supervisors send emergency MOHCD delegation back to committee amid oversight concerns

The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to send an emergency ordinance (item 12) back to the Budget and Finance Committee for further work after multiple supervisors argued the language improperly delegated the Board’s charter authority over leases, loan agreements and housing amendments to the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) and the Real Estate Division.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin led objections to the measure, arguing that the board’s oversight role under Charter Section 9.118 is essential and should not be suspended, even temporarily. Peskin cited corruption allegations and recent Department of Public Works investigations as reasons to preserve legislative checks and balances. He said the ordinance — initially drafted as permanent legislation and later presented as a 60‑day emergency measure — ‘‘disguising this as a COVID‑19 emergency is off‑putting’’ and moved to refer the item back to committee.

Supervisor Walton seconded and supported returning the item for more transparent, committee‑level discussion. Supervisor Sandra Fewer said she had discussed the measure with MOHCD and had secured an amendment requested by Peskin at committee; she nevertheless supported referral so the board could further refine oversight mechanisms.

The motion to refer the emergency ordinance to committee passed unanimously, 11‑0, with multiple supervisors saying they prefer to preserve Board review of amendments to leases and loan agreements that affect affordable housing projects.

Ending: The ordinance was not enacted that day; staff and supervisors signaled they will work in committee to craft a version that preserves the Board’s oversight role while addressing nonprofit cash‑flow concerns cited by MOHCD.