San Francisco Launches First in the Nation Good Government Public Database for City Appointments
San Francisco, CA— Mayor Edwin M. Lee today launched a centralized online
database of City boards and commissions including vacancies and
appointments to advisory bodies for the City and County of San Francisco.
“This one-of-a kind interactive tool makes San Francisco government more
transparent, efficient and easier to engage in for the public” said Mayor
Lee. “By creating an easy and efficient way to search commissions and board
vacancies, we improve our ability to attract a diverse and talented pool of
candidates.”
San Francisco is the first city in the nation to launch a centralized
database, enhancing transparency in commission memberships and investing in good government. The City partnered with Timberlake Publishing to develop the customized Member Management software.
The database project is the result of legislation introduced by Board of
Supervisors President David Chiu and signed by former Mayor Gavin Newsom to improve access to government. The landmark legislation requires the City
Administrator, through 311, to implement and manage a publicly accessible
web site that allows the public to search for available positions and
commission information. The database promotes opportunities to participate
in, and serve on, City boards, commissions, task forces, and committees.
“People interested in getting involved in City government will now be able
to easily search for policy bodies addressing topics of interest, find
current and upcoming vacancies, and understand the requirements for
individual seats and the process for applying for them,” said Board of
Supervisors President David Chiu. “This increase in the transparency of the
appointment process will lead to a healthier and more diverse political
culture in San Francisco.”
To search the centralized online database of City commissions and boards,
go to www.sfgov.org/commissionsdatabase or call 3-1-1.