January 6, 2006

As representatives of youth in San Francisco, the San Francisco Youth Commission does not support file 051463, the ordinance amending the San Francisco Park Code by adding Section 7.03-A. This legislation which proposes to prohibit the Recreation and Park Department from issuing permits for use of park property resulting in exclusion of the public from the park for more than one calendar day or for a second consecutive day following another permitted event, would not serve the interest of San Francisco youth

This ordinance will encompass all individuals or organizations throughout the entire city that wish to provide alcohol for patrons in any public recreational areas. The passing of this ordinance will restrict many individuals and organizations, including those who are not disruptive to the local residents or merchants. Moreover, the revenue generated from the sale of alcohol is essential to numerous other causes. It is not justifiable to penalize all such organizations throughout the city for the interest of one group or community.

Ultimately, we feel that the potential revenue that the events effected by this legislation may generate is too vital an asset to the City of San Francisco to jeopardize for this cause. However, we do sympathize with those wishing to improve the quality and accessibility of public parks, especially for use by youth, and would like to work with the proponents of this ordinance through other action or legislation.