Board of Appeals delays vote on interim rule changes for court reporting and briefing schedule

The San Francisco Board of Appeals discussed two proposed interim revisions to its rules and opted not to take immediate action, asking staff to return with additional notice and materials.

Catherine Barnes explained two interim changes: allowing SFgovTV recordings to serve as the official record with parties able to supply their own court-reporter transcripts to be designated as the official record for a hearing, and changing briefing deadlines so they are tied to the hearing date. Barnes described the recommended schedule: "4 Thursdays prior to hearing, an appellant's brief is due; 2 Thursdays prior to hearing, a departmental or permit-holder's brief is due; and 1 Thursday prior, an appellant's reply would be due." She said the change would reduce the large number of schedule-extension requests.

Members of the public and attorneys raised concerns about reduced plans, how transcripts created from video would be produced and paid for, and how indigent parties would obtain transcripts. Attorney Sue Hester asked that filing reduced plans remain a requirement so appellants have access. Commissioners also recommended a delayed effective date (30–45 days) and more public notice; several asked that planning present a template for required information.

The board agreed to discuss the items again at the next meeting rather than adopt the interim revisions immediately. Staff were asked to make the proposed text available in advance and to clarify how transcripts produced from video would be certified and provided to parties.