Commission Tails: How Two Years Turns Into Ten

Have I overstayed my welcome? Do I contribute in a meaningful way? Do I still care? These are self-reflections that come around once every two years for members of San Francisco’s Commission of Animal Control and Welfare. 

As a city commissioner, I’m asked to re-apply at the end of every two-year term or resign. Last month, I once again appeared in front of the Board of Supervisors Rules Committee to spend two minutes speaking about why I serve and why I should continue to serve. This time, the meeting was held remotely, so I didn’t have the opportunity to walk through City Hall as I have in the past. That grand architecture always reminds me that, although we’re a commission of volunteers, we represent all the citizens of the City of San Francisco. And that City Hall is our City Hall.

Aside from this year’s more pedestrian setting (my dining room), the procedure for the Rules Committee meeting was the same as in past years. The Animal Commission was not first on the agenda, so I was able to listen to other San Franciscans who also wish to serve our city in their own capacities, which is always an interesting experience.

People are drawn to public service for any number of reasons. For me, the idea to apply to the Animal Commission came shortly after the birth of my two children, when I was deep in the life of a new parent. Caring for young children can make one feel at once isolated and exposed. It can also bring into sharp focus the world and the future that you want to see. I’ve always cherished the parks and open spaces of our city, especially at that stage when I was discovering new playgrounds with my kids. Serving on the commission was a way for me to ensure that our city’s children could always enjoy the nature and wildlife of San Francisco that I sometimes took for granted.

Since my first appointment in 2012, I’ve worked with a number of commissioners from a variety of backgrounds. Some come from careers that focus on animal welfare. Some have been interested in their own pet projects (pun definitely intended). A few have had bigger political ambitions and looked for any way to get involved in local government. Many served for one term, then left. Others have been involved for over a decade. 

Working with this diverse group of backgrounds, interests, and intentions helps remind me of my own interests and intentions. My original desire to be a part of keeping our city a welcoming place for humans and animals alike remains as strong as ever. I no longer take my children to playgrounds, but we’re still an outdoor family, soaking up the urban natural world by hiking or riding our bikes in the Presidio. 

The quiet streets of the early COVID lockdown allowed for birds’ songs to ring out more clearly than ever. I do not take these calls for granted (I’m proud that the commission highlighted urban birds and their habitats with a great March 2021 presentation from WildCare called “Respect the Nest”). Each year on the commission, I’ve continued to learn about new species and new issues that are in need of public education or legislative protections.

Except in December, our commission meets monthly to discuss topics ranging from wildlife interactions with humans to protections for endangered species. Very few of us are experts, although the veterinarian who serves on the group always provides valuable insights to further inform our conversations. What we all have in common is simple: a shared interest and commitment.

At the Rules Committee meeting back in 2012, I spoke to the supervisors about the passion I have for our city, its humans, and its animals. This year, I was able to add experience to that passion. During my years on the commission, I have broadened not only my knowledge of animal issues, but also my understanding of how our city operates. I now know that one person can speak out publicly, bring attention to an issue, and have local and state governments take action. 

I do not call myself a professional animal activist. I am not a civic employee, nor have I earned any degrees in animal care. However, with my continued interest and commitment, I am better equipped now to serve our city as I intended than when I first applied for this role. 

This is how a 2-year commitment turns into a 10-year run. I’m all the better for my involvement, and I hope our city is, too.