On Monday the San Francisco Board of Supervisor’s meeting commenced as usual, 2 p.m. sharp in the second floor legislative chamber of City Hall. This time, however, the scene had visibly changed. Mabel Teng was a no-show. Leland Yee beamed, perhaps basking in his re-election victory. And Michael Yaki was all giggles, cracking jokes and blurting out, “Ho, Ho, Ho!” at roll-call — an odd display considering his sobering defeat last week.
Beginning January 6, Yee becomes the sole API member of the board, and Sophie Maxwell the lone female. Along with Teng and Yaki, other minorities who lost their seats include Amos Brown and Alicia Becerril. In fact, only four incumbents retained their positions on the board. Almost overnight, the new players have turned their backs on the city’s one-time political superstars to forge new friendships. Kind of like the rules that govern social interaction in America’s junior highs.
For those who believe good manners and sophistication rule City Hall, think again. At last week’s meeting, Becerril (whose political career seems to have come to an abrupt end with her failure to make it into the runoffs), motioned to recognize an attorney to speak. Twice Yaki responded by turning her request into a question. (“You want to recognize?”) Finally, Becerril cried out, “That’s what I said, didn’t I?” Following Board President Tom Ammiano’s lead, several board members chimed in, mocking Becerril with “Ooohh.”
When the new cast of characters make their entrance, expect to see affordable housing organizer Chris Daly, public defenders Matt Gonzalez and Gerardo Sandoval, city administrator Tony Hall, electrician Sophie Maxwell, English teacher Jake McGoldrick and environmental activist Aaron Peskin.
Given the nature of San Francisco politics, it should be a good show.