Rules Committee fills two Veterans Affairs Commission seats after candidate hearings

The Rules Committee on Feb. 7 advanced two appointments to the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Commission after testimony from candidates and community advocates.

Several applicants described military service and their planned priorities if appointed. George Gibbs, a long-time commissioner who said he had previously been sworn in by Sen. Dianne Feinstein and who has worked extensively with incarcerated and homeless veterans, asked to be reappointed so he can continue advocacy for services including a veterans court. Craden Reed, a second-generation U.S. Marine, and others described the invisible wounds of service and the need to better connect veterans to existing resources. Mary Trammell, a former Leatherneck who worked at the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center, urged more city-funded employment programs for veterans and asked the committee to consider changing city retirement crediting rules that exclude veterans who did not join the city from within San Francisco.

Steven Notzel, secretary of the Veterans Affairs Commission, urged reappointment of Gibbs and Dottie Guy, citing continuity and ongoing initiatives. Labor leaders and trade representatives also spoke in support of candidates who have helped place veterans into apprenticeships and construction jobs.

Supervisor Malia Cohen told the committee she was looking for clear vision and prior demonstrated service to the local veterans community when deciding her vote. After discussion, supervisors moved to support Dottie Guy for seat 12 and Mary Trammell for seat 2; both nominations were advanced to the full Board by unanimous vote.

The committee record shows public testimony emphasized employment programs, mental-health and reintegration services, and the need for leadership to connect veterans to apprenticeship opportunities and other benefits. The full Board will consider confirmation and any follow-up policy directions.