Nomination of Christina Dicus to Historic Preservation Commission draws mixed public comment and committee amends motion

The Rules Committee on April 5 heard the mayor's nomination of Christina Dicus to the Historic Preservation Commission and received extended public comment both opposing and supporting the nominee.

Christina Dicus, an architectural historian, introduced her background in historic‑resource evaluation, CEQA review and projects documenting cultural heritage. Vice Chair Rafael Mandelmann and Supervisor Connie Chan expressed reservations, saying they were concerned the appointment would reduce LGBTQ representation on the commission and that the mayor should consider a candidate to carry forward the specific advocacy work of outgoing Commissioner Aaron Hyland.

Members of the public were divided. Jerry Dretler and others opposed the appointment on conflict‑of‑interest grounds because Dicus works for Page & Turnbull, a firm that has performed work for the city; Dretler said that creates an "inherent conflict of interest" and alleged a "pay-to-play" culture. Other callers — including John Haberan of the California Preservation Foundation and former HPC president Andrew Wolfram — urged support for Dicus, citing her experience and track record working on preservation projects and with diverse communities.

After public comment, Chair Peskin moved to amend the motion (removing the word "approving" in the text) and the committee voted to send the item as amended with a recommendation to the full Board. The roll call recorded Mandelmann, Chan and Peskin voting 'aye' on the amendment and the amended recommendation; the motion passed without objection.