Supervisors advance charter amendment to create Department of Sanitation and Streets in first reading

The Board of Supervisors on July 21 approved in first reading a charter amendment that would create a new Department of Sanitation and Streets and a separate Public Works commission to oversee remaining public‑works functions. The first‑reading vote was 7–4; the item now advances toward final city‑wide consideration if subsequent steps are completed.

Supervisor Shamann Haney, the measure’s sponsor, said the change is intended to focus city resources and management on street cleaning, trash removal, public bathrooms and related sanitation services. “Our streets are often covered with feces and…