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Commission asks staff to approach Police Commission about 10B officer costs and availability
Summary
Commissioners discussed Charter Section 10B and the SFPD 10B program’s cost and timing; staff were asked to approach the Police Commission for a public discussion after CMAQ warned that rising 10B costs and officer shortages have hurt festivals and event producers.
The Entertainment Commission on Jan. 21 discussed Charter Section 10B — the special‑event fee and 10B officer program — and directed staff to open discussions with the Police Commission about cost, timing and administration.
Commissioners raised concerns that the program’s short lead times (commonly two weeks before an event) and the cost of 10B officers have made it difficult for small producers and community events to comply. Commissioner Joseph suggested that staff first ask the Police Commission to consider the issue, rather than immediately seeking action at the Board of Supervisors.
Guy Carson of CMAQ said rising 10B costs and reduced availability have contributed to the cancellation of several annual music festivals in recent years and urged the Entertainment Commission to recommend Board of Supervisors review. "The potential drop off in the 10b availability is coupled with rising 10b costs, borne exclusively by event producers," Carson said, adding that the city should hold a public conversation about program sustainability.
Commissioners discussed alternatives and clarifications raised in public testimony — including that 10B officers are paid (not volunteers), that the Sheriff’s Department does not perform routine patrols in the city and that event producers sometimes receive late notices of 10B requirements. The commission did not formally refer the matter to the Board of Supervisors at the meeting but put staff on record to approach the Police Commission to request a hearing and further review.
