Mayor London Breed is shaping the future of San Francisco's urban landscape with her recent appointments to the Planning Commission. As reported by sf.gov, Amy Campbell and Sean McGarry have been tapped to join the Commission, bringing a combined breadth of expertise in architecture and labor. Campbell, who will succeed the current Commission President Sue Diamond, and McGarry, who will take over from Commissioner Joel Koppel, were selected for their professional accomplishments and their commitment to the city's growth.
In her 17 years of architectural practice, Campbell has been a member of the team at Gensler, focusing on projects that breathe new life into existing structures. While serving in the Planning Department's Historic Preservation Commission, a role appointed by Mayor Breed, Amy Campbell expressed her eagerness to "bring the insights I have gained there as well as my professional architectural experience to help advance and guide the evolution of our extraordinary city." Sean McGarry, a seasoned carpenter and union leader, also brought his decades of experience to the commission, dedicated "to working to build more housing in all neighborhoods in a way that enhances residents' quality of life," according to a statement obtained by sf.gov.
The appointees are stepping into roles previously held by respected commissioners. Sue Diamond, who led the city's Housing Element development, stepped down to dedicate more time to her family. Acknowledging her contributions, Breed lauded, "Sue has worked hard to address complex planning issues and make them work for San Franciscans." Similarly, Joel Koppel, known for his attempts to balance housing growth and family retention in the city, has left a significant imprint on San Francisco's trajectory. Breed notes via the sf.gov news, "Joel has been a passionate and thoughtful champion for our City, its residents and workers."
The San Francisco Planning Commission plays a crucial role in shaping the city's land usage and transportation policy. As new commissioners, Campbell and McGarry will maintain the General Plan and oversee the Planning Department's approvals. They join a body tasked with safeguarding the city’s architectural heritage, as marked by Campbell's role in the Historic Preservation Commission, and fostering development that aligns with San Francisco's ecological and socioeconomic goals.
