The San Francisco government meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on proposed regulations affecting city employees and their involvement with nonprofit organizations. Key discussions highlighted concerns regarding employment restrictions and board service for city staff.
A representative raised significant objections to the proposed regulations, arguing that they are overly broad and could hinder the ability of frontline workers, such as case managers and childcare specialists, to seek additional employment. The speaker emphasized that many of these employees do not participate in decision-making processes and should be allowed to work part-time for city-funded nonprofits, even if those positions are primarily funded by the city. This restriction, they argued, exacerbates the staffing crisis faced by nonprofits, which struggle to offer competitive wages due to city underfunding.
The discussion also touched on the ability of city employees to serve on nonprofit boards. The representative pointed out that many staff members from the Department of Public Health (DPH) wish to share their expertise with healthcare nonprofits but are restricted by the proposed regulations. They suggested that city employees should be permitted to serve on nonprofit boards, provided they do not engage in contracting decisions related to those organizations. The speaker proposed implementing case-by-case approvals with specific criteria to ensure transparency and mitigate any potential conflicts of interest.
In response, a city official acknowledged the concerns raised and noted that the language in the regulations was developed in consultation with the DPH to avoid overly broad restrictions that could limit employment opportunities for city nurses and other staff.
The meeting concluded without a resolution, leaving the future of these proposed regulations uncertain. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by nonprofits in San Francisco and the need for policies that support both city employees and the organizations they serve.