Commission delegates chair to work with treasurer on collection of $193,000 forfeiture tied to Supervisor Mark Farrell

The commission addressed a follow‑up on a previously assessed forfeiture tied to Supervisor Mark Farrell and the commission’s prior findings. Counsel reported the Treasurer/Delinquent Revenue had written seeking further direction on collection or settlement. Commissioners disagreed about whether the treasurer typically seeks the commission’s input and whether further public discussion or litigation would be appropriate.

Some commissioners argued the Treasurer is the city’s collection agency and should proceed to enforce the debt; others said the treasurer had asked the commission for guidance and that a closed‑session discussion of litigation posture was appropriate to preserve attorney‑client privilege. Several members of the public urged strict enforcement and transparency given the seriousness of the underlying violation.

The commission voted to go into closed session and, as a result of the private discussion, delegated authority to the chair to continue working with the Treasurer to pursue enforcement. The commission also voted 4–1 not to disclose additional details from the closed session beyond a brief public statement that delegated authority to the chair to work with the Treasurer.

The commission’s action leaves enforcement strategy (settlement, installment plan, litigation) in the hands of the Treasurer in consultation with the chair and counsel; staff said they will report back as appropriate and as required by law.