Building Inspection Commission names Rudin interim DBI director after closed-session vote

The San Francisco Building Inspection Commission disclosed on March 18, 2020, that it had acted in closed session to appoint Mr. Rudin as interim director of the Department of Building Inspection (DBI).

The personnel matter followed public comments raising concerns about DBI leadership and recent developments referenced by commenters, including the resignation of former DBI director Tom Huey and media accounts about an expanded probe involving a former commission president and structural engineer. Jerry Dratler urged an outside investigation into DBI internal controls earlier in the meeting.

After the closed session, city attorney Rob Caplar stated the commission had appointed "Mr. Rudin, interim director." Mr. Rudin addressed commissioners, saying, "While I am deeply grateful for your expressed confidence in my leadership of DBI during what can only be called extraordinary times, I want to assure you that ours will continue to be a team effort." He pledged to work with the commission, city departments, the mayor and the board of supervisors to maintain building safety during the public-health emergency.

The record shows the commission voted to convene closed session earlier in the meeting; the reconvened open session included the disclosure that an appointment had been made. Commissioners thanked staff and colleagues for stepping into interim roles during the transition.