Rules Committee forwards Kathleen Dooley reappointment after robust public comment

The Rules Committee on Jan. 16 moved Kathleen Dooley’s nomination for reappointment to the Small Business Commission forward to the full Board after a lengthy public‑comment period that included both strong endorsements and a pointed criticism.

Dooley, who is seeking another term, briefed the committee on her work on Americans with Disabilities Act issues and efforts on formula‑retail policy. Supervisor David Campos praised her record and moved to recommend her reappointment, saying the committee had attracted a diverse and strong applicant pool and that both candidates heard that day were impressive.

Several business owners and community leaders spoke in support. John Toja, a longtime small‑business owner, said Dooley’s assistance ‘‘saved my livelihood’’ during a fight with a national chain, and Kieran Sennett, a merchant‑association consultant, described Dooley’s steady involvement in neighborhood business issues. Susan Landry of Animal Connection and Charles Thomas of the North Beach Business Association also endorsed Dooley’s work protecting local merchants.

Not all public testimony was unanimous. Marsha Garland, a longtime North Beach business leader, said she ‘‘took exception’’ to Dooley’s comment about lobbyists and later characterized Dooley as ‘‘one of an obstructionist.’’ Stefano Casolato offered examples in which he urged Dooley to show more compassion when business owners confront regulatory hurdles. The transcript does not record a direct response from Dooley to the criticism during the meeting.

After hearing testimony, the committee moved to forward Dooley’s reappointment to the full Board with a positive recommendation; the motion passed without objection. The nomination will appear on the Board of Supervisors agenda for final consideration.