Ethics Commission grants one‑year waiver to former Historic Preservation commissioner

The San Francisco Ethics Commission voted to grant a one‑year post‑employment waiver to architect Alan Martinez, who served on the city’s Historic Preservation Commission. Martinez told the commission he has not had a project before the HPC in four years and that most of his current work is small remodeling and additions reviewed by the Planning Department.

Commissioners questioned Martinez about his understanding that a waiver might have been automatic after his term ended. Martinez said he had discussed ethics rules with an adviser named Marlena and had been under the impression a waiver would follow; he said he would not petition the Historic Preservation Commission during the waiver period.

Commissioner Herr moved to grant the waiver with the specific limitation that Martinez may not represent clients before the Historic Preservation Commission; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. The chair emphasized the commission reviews waiver requests on a case‑by‑case basis.

Members of the public, including Larry Bush of Friends of Ethics, urged clearer guidance from the City Attorney’s Office and faster publication of the Good Government Guide so future appointees understand post‑service restrictions. John Givner, Deputy City Attorney, said the current Good Government Guide is available on the City Attorney’s website and that an update is expected online this summer.

The commission also encouraged outreach to appointing authorities so prospective commissioners receive clearer information about post‑service limitations before accepting appointments.