Board refers Leslie Katz—s Port Commission appointment back to committee for further review

The Board of Supervisors on Jan. 4 referred the mayor—s appointment of Leslie Katz to the Port Commission back to committee after several supervisors asked for more time for public discussion and consultation with community members.

Supervisor Mark Marr moved to send Item 45 back to committee, saying Katz had strong qualifications but that the public deserved more time and opportunity to raise concerns directly with the nominee. "I feel very strongly about former Supervisor Katz's qualifications, but I think we owe it to the public to have a more thorough discussion, especially given the important decisions that will be coming to the port commission this coming year with the America's Cup," Marr said.

The motion to refer passed 7-4 on a roll-call vote. Supporters of the referral said the Port Commission will face consequential policy and contract choices in the coming year and that additional committee-level vetting would allow resident concerns to be addressed before final confirmation. Supervisor Chris Daley, by contrast, urged prompt confirmation noting his prior support in committee and arguing the port needs a full commission as America's Cup negotiations proceed.

The referral does not disqualify Katz; it sends the nomination back to the rules committee for further hearings and outreach. Supervisors said the committee should ensure that any substantive concerns raised by tenants, community groups or other stakeholders are given the opportunity to be heard and that Katz be given a chance to respond.

No final confirmation was taken at the Jan. 4 meeting; the item will return to committee, per the motion, for additional review.