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Board rejects Ryan Brooks but keeps Richard Sklar after heated public and supervisor debate
Summary
The board voted to reject the reappointment of Ryan Brooks to the Public Utilities Commission but did not secure enough votes to reject Commissioner Richard Sklar amid extensive debate about management, project costs, and institutional change.
The Board of Supervisors rejected the mayor’s reappointment of Ryan Brooks to the Public Utilities Commission but declined to reject Richard Sklar after a contentious public hearing that filled the chamber with supporters and critics of both nominees.
Motion to reject Ryan Brooks passed by an 8–3 roll call vote after supervisors who represent neighborhoods affected by the PUC’s decisions argued for fresh leadership. Several supervisors said the mayor’s new slate should create “new blood” for the commission. The motion to reject was offered by Supervisor Dufty and seconded by Supervisor Ammiano; the clerk recorded eight ayes and three noes and the motion carried.
The reappointment of Commissioner Richard Sklar drew extended public comment. Sklar — a long‑time city official and former PUC general manager who described his decades of public‑works experience and service overseas — addressed the board at length, detailing his record on infrastructure programs and defending his votes on power‑supply contracts. Supporters, including some former mayors, labor leaders and conservation advocates, praised his technical experience; critics faulted his management style and decisions, and noted the political fallout surrounding the departure of the prior general manager.
A motion to reject Sklar’s reappointment fell short. Board members voting in favor of rejecting Sklar argued the PUC needed new leadership and cited concerns over the agency’s direction and a reported $400,000 separation payment tied to recent personnel changes. Supporters of Sklar described him as experienced and uniquely qualified to guide major utility infrastructure projects. The roll-call produced seven ayes and four noes and the clerk announced the motion failed, allowing Sklar to remain on the commission pending any future reappointment process.
Throughout the hearing, supervisors emphasized the importance of experience at the commission but were sharply divided over the tradeoff between institutional expertise and the desire for change. The votes leave the PUC with at least one newly rejected nominee and one commissioner whose reappointment survived the board’s challenge.
