Rules Committee confirms Willie Adams for Port Commission amid union backing

The Rules Committee on July 19 recommended confirmation of William ("Willie") Adams to the Port Commission (term through May 1, 2014), after extensive public comment from maritime and labor leaders.

Adams described 34 years of maritime and labor experience and said he would act as an ambassador for the Port, seek to bridge gaps with neighborhoods and support local-hire and community engagement. "I am more than willing anytime to come down to your district, have a town hall meeting," Adams said when asked about outreach to neighborhoods.

Speakers from Port staff, the San Francisco Labor Council, trade advisory bodies and ILWU Local 10 urged supervisors to confirm Adams, highlighting his knowledge of port operations and labor experience. Tim Paulson, executive director of the San Francisco Labor Council, said Adams "will bring the expertise and knows exactly what the waterfront is all about." The maritime director and others also spoke in favor.

Supervisor Farrell moved to confirm Adams with a recommendation to the full board; Supervisor Campos seconded and the motion carried without opposition. The committee praised the mayor's nomination and noted the appointment will proceed as a committee report to the full Board of Supervisors.