Rules committee forwards two SFMTA nominations amid questions over outreach and responsiveness

The Rules Committee considered two mayoral nominations to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency board on April 25.

Cheryl Brinkman, current chair of the SFMTA board, described a background in pedestrian and bike advocacy and emphasized safety priorities such as Vision Zero. Several public speakers criticized the agency for uneven public notification and outreach, failure to engage disability advocacy groups and perceived inattentiveness to on‑the‑ground conditions. Brinkman acknowledged shortcomings, described existing outreach methods (street notices, mailings, email lists and door‑to‑door work when feasible) and committed to directing staff to prepare a detailed report on communications with district supervisors.

Gwyneth Borden, also nominated for reappointment, described a career as a transit advocate and regular Muni and BART rider. She highlighted SFMTA’s POETS public‑outreach strategy and updated equity work, and said the agency is training staff to improve community engagement. Supervisors pressed nominees on outreach, late‑night rider safety, and taxi/commuter shuttle issues; both nominees pledged to improve staff coordination with supervisors and community groups.

Public comment reflected mixed views: some speakers urged rejection of nominees, citing poor responsiveness and operational concerns; others — including labor and transit advocates — offered support. After discussion, the committee moved both nominations forward to the full board with positive recommendations.