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Board of Supervisors backs resolution opposing GGNRA dog policy as amended
Summary
After weeks of hearings and negotiations, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted 10–1 to adopt an amended resolution opposing the Golden Gate National Recreation Area's proposed off‑leash policy while encouraging continued dialogue and coordination with the NPS and city departments.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted to adopt an amended resolution opposing the Golden Gate National Recreation Area's proposed off‑leash dog policy, while urging further dialogue between city agencies and the National Park Service.
Supervisor Wiener moved the resolution and prompted changes after an earlier hearing. The board first approved an "amendment of the whole" and later approved the underlying resolution as amended; both votes were 10 ayes and 1 no, with Supervisor Ellsburn recorded as the lone dissent.
Supporters said the National Park Service proposal would sharply reduce off‑leash access compared with current practice. "It dramatically, dramatically, restricts access for off leash dogs from what currently exists," Supervisor Wiener said during debate, and warned the policy's compliance‑based escalation could lead to broader bans over time.
The amendment added language recognizing the GGNRA's engagement with city officials and the public since the issue first came before the board. Planning and parks concerns and the city's need for a cooperative relationship with federal land managers factored in several supervisors' remarks. Supervisor Ellsburn said she remained opposed to the amended resolution because it did not sufficiently acknowledge other affected voices or require reports from the Recreation and Park Department; she voted no on both the amendment and the final resolution.
The resolution as amended asks the GGNRA to revise the proposal and expand outreach, and it calls on city agencies to coordinate their responses. The board's action follows a land‑use committee hearing and a lengthy public comment period, and it comes as city officials and NPS staff report continuing dialogue. The motion to adopt the amendment of the whole was made by Supervisor Reiner and seconded by Supervisor Avalos; the final resolution was approved by roll call.
What to expect next: the resolution is a formal expression of the supervisors' concerns and a request that GGNRA revise the proposal; it does not change federal policy. City staff and supervisors said they expect further meetings with GGNRA staff and additional public comment as the agencies negotiate details.
Votes at a glance: the board approved the amendment of the whole (10–1) and later approved the resolution as amended (10–1). Supervisor Ellsburn was the lone no vote on both measures.
The board moved on to other business after a prolonged debate that highlighted community tensions between dog owners, environmental advocates and managers of federal parkland.
