Rules Committee forwards mayor’s Entertainment Commission nominee Ben Blyman to full board without recommendation

Ben Blyman, the mayor’s nominee for an industry-representative seat on San Francisco’s Entertainment Commission, appeared before the Rules Committee on Feb. 22, 2017, to outline his qualifications and vision for nightlife in the city. The committee voted to send the nomination to the full Board of Supervisors without a recommendation.

Blyman, who told the committee he has owned and operated bars, restaurants and an events company for almost a decade in San Francisco, said his priorities are “responsible, accessible and affordable nightlife” and building relationships between venues and neighboring communities. “I stand for responsible, accessible, and affordable nightlife for residents of San Francisco and visitors,” he said during his remarks.

During questioning, supervisors pressed Blyman on how landmark protections and recent legislation affecting nightclubs have changed the industry. Blyman credited prior legislation with requiring developers to notify new residents about nearby nightlife and said that measure helped venues and neighbors coexist. He also argued for diversifying nightlife offerings into underserved neighborhoods, noting rising costs make many venues less affordable.

Public comment included endorsements from outgoing Entertainment Commissioner Audrey Joseph, who highlighted Blyman’s operational knowledge and sound-management experience. After discussion, Supervisor Sandy Lee Feuer moved to send the nomination to the full board without a recommendation. On roll call, Supervisors Feuer and Yee voted aye; Supervisor Asher Safai voted no. The motion passed 2–1.

Next steps: the nomination is scheduled to appear on the Board of Supervisors agenda (02/28/2017).