Police Commission adopts resolution requiring notification to commissioners about high-profile incidents

The San Francisco Police Commission voted to adopt a resolution directing the police chief or a designee to notify commissioners when certain high-profile events occur, a measure supporters said would formalize an existing practice and ensure future continuity.

Commissioner David Campos moved the amended resolution, which added a "to the extent possible" qualification to limit operational burden; Commissioner Thomas Mazuko seconded. Commissioners discussed the balance between oversight and day-to-day management, with some expressing concern that notifying all seven commissioners directly could create operational strain or run into Sunshine-ordinance issues.

"We have to be very careful not to cross over the line of day-to-day management of the department," Commissioner Yvonne Lee said during debate, urging that the commission president be the primary contact in some cases. Chief Fong told commissioners the department would "do our best to notify you" and that the policy is intended for high-profile incidents, not routine operations.

Supporters said the resolution would protect future commission members from being caught unaware by press announcements. "Many of the times I was notified by the press," Commissioner De Aziz said, urging a formal mechanism so commissioners are not surprised by outside announcements. The resolution also allows commissioners to opt out of notifications.

The roll call recorded Commissioners De Jesus, Lee, Marshall, Mazuko/Mazooka, Sparks and Campos voting Aye; the motion carried (recorded as 5-0-1). The commission did not record any public comment on the item before the vote.

Next steps: the commission adopted the resolution as amended and the department indicated it would refine distribution lists and consider electronic options to streamline notifications.