Supervisors table proposal to ask voters about 2016 Olympics after debate

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Aug. 8 considered a motion that would ask voters whether the city should host the 2016 Olympic Games, but supervisors ultimately tabled the item after extended debate.

Supervisor Sandoval, who introduced the motion, said he supports the idea of hosting the Olympics but wants "to ask average San Franciscans if they agree," and that the proposed measure was intended to prompt public dialogue and a vote. He cited mixed findings from economic studies and said the city already incurs costs when promoting big events.

Why it matters: The question of whether to seek a regional or city referendum on hosting a major international event has fiscal and planning implications, including potential commitments for stadiums and public financing that could overlap with other large projects.

Debate highlights: Sandoval argued that asking voters would increase transparency and public dialogue and compared the issue to earlier controversies over stadium financing and the 49ers, noting public unease when matters have proceeded behind closed doors. He said: "We're giving very little credit to people. People understand very well their bottom line." Other supervisors said the question as written is straightforward and would let voters weigh costs and benefits.

The motion to table was made by Supervisor Sandoval and was seconded; the board applied its procedural rules to terminate debate and table the item without a roll-call vote. Chairing remarks note the mayor had previously called it premature to ask voters and that a public conversation had already begun.

Ending: With the item tabled, the board did not put a question on the ballot at this meeting. Several supervisors said they remained open to returning the matter to the board or placing it on a future ballot, but no final scheduling was set.