San Francisco Ethics Commission hears BLA audit, flags staffing shortfalls and delays to Form 700 e‑filing

The San Francisco Ethics Commission on Aug. 14 heard a presentation of a Budget and Legislative Analyst (BLA) performance audit that recommended the commission formalize metrics, increase staffing, and expand training and audit programs — recommendations staff said they support but cannot fully implement until new hires and funding are secured.

Executive Director Pelham told the commission the 82‑page audit gives "real clarity and real insights" and that her office "very strongly support[s] this recommendation" to expedite hiring and improve performance tracking. Pelham and Enforcement Director Jeff Pierce outlined 16 recommendations that include filling vacant audit and investigator supervisory posts, standardizing performance metrics, developing an audit manual and training program, and creating a lobbying audit by FY21.

Why it matters: Commissioners said the recommendations arrive amid a high public demand for accountability and while the department faces pandemic‑era staffing constraints. Several commissioners warned that delayed hires will hamper the commission—s ability to speed investigations, conduct Form 700 compliance reviews, and implement the BLA timetable.

Staffing and budget implications S…