Rules Committee moves FX Crowley PUC nomination to full Board after wide questioning on sewage, contracting and public power

Francis Xavier ("FX") Crowley told the Rules Committee he would bring negotiation and labor experience to the Public Utilities Commission and pledged to study technical issues in water, power and wastewater management.

Crowley said he had not sought the appointment and promised to "roll up my sleeves" to learn technical aspects of water and power oversight. He identified workforce development, contracting practices and environmental stewardship — particularly the burden borne by the Southeast sewage treatment plant — as early priorities. Crowley said he supports renewable energy and community engagement and described a labor background he said would help him advocate for equitable contracting.

Supervisors pressed Crowley on large PUC contracts, contracting‑out versus in‑house work, community choice aggregation and distribution of wastewater treatment across the city. Supervisor Amiano and others asked whether he could oversee large bond and contracting matters; Crowley said he would rely on colleagues and staff and work to ensure fair outcomes. Several public speakers, including retired Justice Harry Lowe and community leaders from Bayview‑Hunters Point, urged the committee to support Crowley as someone who could represent Southeast neighborhoods.

The committee did not finalize an appointment at Rules. Members moved Crowley’s nomination to the full Board without recommendation to allow more time for vetting and follow-up conversation between Crowley and supervisors.