Leland Yee: The Presidio - A better vision

The Presidio is embarking on a potentially massive development program outlined in the Presidio Trust Implementation Plan (PTIP). Neighbors were concerned that the City would not adequately address their concerns with the PTIP. Consequently, I established, by legislation, the Presidio Working Group on Oct. 22.

Its 25 participants include city departments and neighborhood representatives whose task is to comment on the environmental impacts the PTIP will have. The working group will be making their official report to the SF Board of Supervisors in early 2002 on the progress of their work and their recommendations.

One of the Presidio Working Group's initial accomplishments is a 17-page response document to the PTIP. It offers well-thought-out general comments and discussion of the consistency of the PTIP with the San Francisco General Plan. In particular, the document stresses the need for the PTIP "to strongly assert the continued commitment of the Presidio Trust to implement the vision for the Presidio articulated in the 1994 General Management Plan for the Presidio."

I fully expect the Presidio Working Group to continue in its role of monitoring and responding to the Presidio Trust as the Trust works to maintain fiscal responsibility and sustainability, and to address the concerns of the City and its neighborhoods.

Recent disclosures that Jim Meadows, the executive director of the Presidio Trust, was exceeding reasonable expenditures and offering jobs and housing to friends and relatives at reduced costs caused the Trust's board of directors to accept Meadows' resignation. The opening that has been created by his departure offers the Trust and San Franciscans a greater opportunity for dialogue and cooperation.

The Trust's Board of Directors, appointed by the president and confirmed by Congress, has enormous power in determining the focus of the Presidio's day-to-day operation, administration and vision. I believe that San Franciscans must step forward and express a vision for the Presidio that reflects a Presidio embodied in the 1994 General Management Plan. That plan de-emphasizes development and stresses the importance of maintaining open space. It is clear to me that the Presidio is contending that it must extensively develop itself to become financially self-sufficient.

According to one study, the level of renovation and modernization that is necessary to achieve code compliance and meet safety regulations is very limited. The existing and rehabilitated buildings and facilities, along with the new Lucas development at the old Letterman Hospital site, should provide enough income for the Presidio to achieve financial self-sufficiency by 2013.

San Francisco has enjoyed the treasure known as the Presidio for centuries. It is part of our heritage and our historical and recreational experience. I recognize the importance of this resource for San Franciscans and I am committed to doing everything within my authority to maintain and preserve the unique character of this treasure.

Leland Yee is a San Francisco supervisor. who represents District 4.