San Francisco voters will decide this November whether to approve Proposition F, a charter amendment that would give Mayor Daniel Lurie sole authority to hire and fire certain department heads, reorganize city agencies and remove commissioners. The measure is part of a broader push by the mayor’s office to streamline a fragmented city government that many residents say hampers accountability.
Candidate perspectives
Matt Dorsey, the incumbent District 6 supervisor, supports the proposal. Dorsey argues that ending the “silos” among public‑health, supportive‑housing, police and sheriff departments requires a strong, accountable executive. “Ending brazen drug markets, rampant public drug use, and addiction‑driven lawlessness requires cooperation among our public‑health, supportive‑housing, police and sheriffs’ departments,” he wrote. “The job of eliminating silos to ensure departments work together is the mayor’s.” Dorsey also backs other charter reforms on Props A, D and E, describing them as “good‑government” measures that give elected leaders the flexibility and resources needed to deliver services.
Alex Behrend, the challenger, opposes the expansion of mayoral power. Behrend warns that concentrating authority in a single office threatens independent oversight. “Concentrating power in an Executive – President or Mayor – never works!” he said, adding that the mayor’s “inheritance‑funded propaganda machine” pushes a corporate‑coddling agenda. Behrend calls for voters to defeat the “mayoral power grab” and to support measures that tax billionaire wealth and curb the influence of the ultra‑rich.
Why the mayor wants more authority
Mayor Lurie and his allies contend that San Francisco’s current charter creates a fragmented structure that makes it difficult to pinpoint responsibility when services fail. By centralizing hiring and firing power, the mayor could more quickly address performance issues, reduce bureaucratic red tape, and ensure that elected officials—who are directly answerable to voters—have the tools to manage the city effectively.
Opposition and concerns
Critics, including Behrend and several community groups, argue that the proposed changes would weaken independent oversight and concentrate too much power in one office. They fear that reduced commission numbers could diminish checks on the mayor and limit public input on policy decisions.
Historical context
San Francisco’s charter has shifted authority several times since 1898, moving from a strong‑mayor system to a chief‑administrative‑officer model in 1932, and back again with the 1995 charter. Since then, voters have approved 153 amendments, continually reshaping city governance. In 2024, Proposition D, which would have expanded mayoral power while slashing the number of commissions, was rejected despite a $9 million campaign effort.
What’s at stake
If Proposition F passes, it would be one of the most significant changes to San Francisco’s government structure since the 1995 charter rewrite. The mayor’s campaign for Props D, E and F has raised roughly $13 million, largely from wealthy donors, underscoring the high‑stakes nature of the debate.
How to vote
San Francisco voters can cast their ballots on November 3. The measure will appear on the ballot alongside other charter amendments and local propositions. Voters are encouraged to review the full text of Proposition F and consider how the proposed changes align with their desire for efficient, accountable city leadership.
For more information on the candidates, their platforms, and how to register to vote, visit the San Francisco elections website or contact the District 6 campaign offices.
Original reporting: Mission Local — read the source article.
