S.F. Supes Could Override Foot Patrol Veto

Nov. 13 - KGO (KGO) -- A big showdown is looming between Mayor Gavin Newsom and the Board of Supervisors over a plan to get more cops out of their cars and walking the streets.

Even on rainy days like this, Officer Phil Popale walks a beat in San Francisco.

Under a plan approved by the Board of Supervisors, there would be nearly three dozen more cops out of their cars on a full-time basis.

David Ball, resident: "I think it's a good idea to get personal with people as opposed to driving down the street, seeing somebody walk down the street."

Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi sponsored the measure as a response to violent crime and out of frustration with the mayor's office.

Ross Mirkarimi, San Francisco supervisor: "We've seen several pronouncements come from the mayor's office and the police chief that haven't come to fruition -- a blue ribbon panel on police reform that never materialized, community policing efforts that never launched into reality."

But Mayor Gavin Newsom has vetoed the legislation. Both he and the police chief believe it's inappropriate for politicians to tell the department what to do.

Chief Heather Fong: "For legislators to dictate you have to walk in a certain area, that takes all authority away from that captain."

Today the chief unveiled her own plan for an extra 44 officers on foot patrols starting next week. Her message is clear -- no need for a city ordinance.

On Tuesday, the supervisors could override the mayor's veto.

The man once considered the swing vote says he will vote against the mayor.

Jake McGoldrick, San Francisco supervisor: "The mayor has been dragging his feet on this for a long, long time."

If the board prevails, the beat patrols as a one -year pilot project will begin in January. It's unclear if the police department will cooperate.

Chief Heather Fong: "I'm not saying we won't comply. I think the captains have to do an analysis."

Get more News »

• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•