Josh Koehn

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=mark%20farrell">Mark Farrell</a>’s last stint as a public official concluded with a victory lap fit for a king.

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<a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=mark%20farrell">Mark Farrell</a>’s last stint as a public official concluded with a victory lap fit for a king.

During his final year as a supervisor, Farrell spent thousands of dollars in campaign donors’ cash to frequent some of San Francisco’s swankiest bars and restaurants, treating money raised for an already-concluded Democratic Party race in a manner that ethics experts likened to a slush fund. Farrell also appears to have used a legal loophole while interim mayor to accept large chunks of money from special interest groups that would have been otherwise barred.

During his final year as a supervisor, Farrell spent thousands of dollars in campaign donors’ cash to frequent some of San Francisco’s swankiest bars and restaurants, treating money raised for an already-concluded Democratic Party race in a manner that ethics experts likened to a slush fund. Farrell also appears to have used a legal loophole while interim mayor to accept large chunks of money from special interest groups that would have been otherwise barred.

The Standard’s investigation into old campaign records filed by Farrell—who is now running to reclaim the Mayor’s Office—found that he used leftover money from a 2016 Democratic County Central Committee (DCCC) campaign to wine and dine unnamed constituents at more than three dozen meetings for meals. After being appointed mayor in early 2018, Farrell continued to tap into the campaign account while also using it to accept thousands of dollars from trash giant Recology and a friend’s restaurant—both of which had business with the city. Farrell then gave out coveted commission appointments to the restaurant owner and a Recology exec who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-corruption-paul-giusti-sandra-zuniga-sentencing/">pleaded guilty to a bribery scheme</a>.

Why 2 defendants in San Francisco corruption probe avoided prison time

The Standard’s investigation into old campaign records filed by Farrell—who is now running to reclaim the Mayor’s Office—found that he used leftover money from a 2016 Democratic County Central Committee (DCCC) campaign to wine and dine unnamed constituents at more than three dozen meetings for meals. After being appointed mayor in early 2018, Farrell continued to tap into the campaign account while also using it to accept thousands of dollars from trash giant Recology and a friend’s restaurant—both of which had business with the city. Farrell then gave out coveted commission appointments to the restaurant owner and a Recology exec who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-corruption-paul-giusti-sandra-zuniga-sentencing/">pleaded guilty to a bribery scheme</a>.

Multiple campaign ethics experts contacted for this story said they were surprised by the number of gastronomic outings Farrell took and the opaqueness around who attended, especially given his past ethics issues. In 2016, Farrell paid a record fine of $25,000 after his first supervisor campaign was found to have <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/SF-Ethics-Commission-slashes-fine-for-Farrell-9981935.php">illegally coordinated with a committee</a> funded by real estate magnate Thomas Coates and socialite and philanthropist Dede Wilsey.

Multiple campaign ethics experts contacted for this story said they were surprised by the number of gastronomic outings Farrell took and the opaqueness around who attended, especially given his past ethics issues. In 2016, Farrell paid a record fine of $25,000 after his first supervisor campaign was found to have <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/SF-Ethics-Commission-slashes-fine-for-Farrell-9981935.php">illegally coordinated with a committee</a> funded by real estate magnate Thomas Coates and socialite and philanthropist Dede Wilsey.

“Given that history, it is rational for the public and the press to scrutinize his record,” said Sean McMorris, an expert on campaign ethics and transparency for California Common Cause. “Who were these people [at the meals]? Was their business campaign-related?”&nbsp;

“Given that history, it is rational for the public and the press to scrutinize his record,” said Sean McMorris, an expert on campaign ethics and transparency for California Common Cause. “Who were these people [at the meals]? Was their business campaign-related?”&nbsp;

Lawmaker spent $75K in campaign cash on 49ers, Giants, Warriors tix

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Several active members of the DCCC told The Standard that leftover campaign funds for a seat on the local party are generally used to help pay off debts to staff, fund travel for Democratic Party functions and pay for civic events and organizations.

Several active members of the DCCC told The Standard that leftover campaign funds for a seat on the local party are generally used to help pay off debts to staff, fund travel for Democratic Party functions and pay for civic events and organizations.

In contrast, from late 2016 through March 2018, Farrell’s DCCC campaign picked up more than $7,400 in tabs for meals and drinks at Spruce, Swig, Bix, Novela, Balboa Cafe, The Beer Hall, Bob’s Steak &amp; Chop House, Izzy’s Steak &amp; Chop House, Fat Angel Food &amp; Libation—the list goes on for more than three-dozen meetings with “DCCC constituents” whom Farrell has declined to identify.&nbsp;

In contrast, from late 2016 through March 2018, Farrell’s DCCC campaign picked up more than $7,400 in tabs for meals and drinks at Spruce, Swig, Bix, Novela, Balboa Cafe, The Beer Hall, Bob’s Steak &amp; Chop House, Izzy’s Steak &amp; Chop House, Fat Angel Food &amp; Libation—the list goes on for more than three-dozen meetings with “DCCC constituents” whom Farrell has declined to identify.&nbsp;

Mayoral candidate Mark Farrell addresses the crowd at the second mayoral debate, held at UC Law in San Francisco on Monday, June 17th, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-461.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit and white shirt is giving a speech, gesturing with one hand up. A flag is seen in the background, and a presentation slide is partially visible." class="wp-image-284212"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell declined to identify who he met with for more than three dozen meals while using money from his Democratic Party campaign account.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-461.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit and white shirt is giving a speech, gesturing with one hand up. A flag is seen in the background, and a presentation slide is partially visible." class="wp-image-284212"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell declined to identify who he met with for more than three dozen meals while using money from his Democratic Party campaign account.</figcaption></figure>

Many of the restaurants and bars Farrell frequented have closed since the start of the pandemic, but The Standard obtained an itemized receipt from a $1,511.62 dinner Farrell held at Michelin-starred restaurant The Progress to thank DCCC volunteers. According to the receipt, the dinner occurred the night of Dec. 14, 2017—a year and a half after his DCCC victory and just two days after the death of Mayor Ed Lee, which eventually led to Farrell’s appointment as mayor.

Many of the restaurants and bars Farrell frequented have closed since the start of the pandemic, but The Standard obtained an itemized receipt from a $1,511.62 dinner Farrell held at Michelin-starred restaurant The Progress to thank DCCC volunteers. According to the receipt, the dinner occurred the night of Dec. 14, 2017—a year and a half after his DCCC victory and just two days after the death of Mayor Ed Lee, which eventually led to Farrell’s appointment as mayor.

Items Farrell and company ordered at The Progress included: two bottles of Tassin Champagne; two bottles of heritage blend from Bedrock winery in Sonoma; one bottle of chardonnay from Massican Hyde Vineyard in Napa; eight tasting menus at $78 apiece; two cappuccinos; and one sparkling water. The receipt noted eight meals were served while Farrell’s campaign report said the party featured the candidate and 11 unnamed guests.

Items Farrell and company ordered at The Progress included: two bottles of Tassin Champagne; two bottles of heritage blend from Bedrock winery in Sonoma; one bottle of chardonnay from Massican Hyde Vineyard in Napa; eight tasting menus at $78 apiece; two cappuccinos; and one sparkling water. The receipt noted eight meals were served while Farrell’s campaign report said the party featured the candidate and 11 unnamed guests.

It’s unclear if Farrell was paying for the table or only himself on other occasions, as Farrell began reimbursing himself directly starting with a meal charged on Christmas Eve 2017, according to campaign filings. He did not report the location of almost a third of his expensed meals, which totaled more than $1,900 in charges.

It’s unclear if Farrell was paying for the table or only himself on other occasions, as Farrell began reimbursing himself directly starting with a meal charged on Christmas Eve 2017, according to campaign filings. He did not report the location of almost a third of his expensed meals, which totaled more than $1,900 in charges.

Additional charges for Farrell’s DCCC campaign committee, which had more than $56,000 in remaining funds at the start of 2017, show that he kept the account open to: reimburse his wife, Liz, for $440 in office expenses; purchase more than $1,200 of office supplies from Walgreens in just two purchases; buy more than $1,000 worth of office furniture; and rack up a $195 bill at Bed Bath &amp; Beyond in a transaction inexplicably labeled as a meeting.

Additional charges for Farrell’s DCCC campaign committee, which had more than $56,000 in remaining funds at the start of 2017, show that he kept the account open to: reimburse his wife, Liz, for $440 in office expenses; purchase more than $1,200 of office supplies from Walgreens in just two purchases; buy more than $1,000 worth of office furniture; and rack up a $195 bill at Bed Bath &amp; Beyond in a transaction inexplicably labeled as a meeting.

Farrell’s campaign told The Standard that he did not recall who attended all of the meals and he does not have a calendar documenting the meetings. Farrell’s spokesperson said the furniture was used in his supervisor office.

Farrell’s campaign told The Standard that he did not recall who attended all of the meals and he does not have a calendar documenting the meetings. Farrell’s spokesperson said the furniture was used in his supervisor office.

Mark Farrell, a former San Francisco mayor and supervisor, formally announce his candidacy at the San Francisco Baseball Academy at 3010 Geary Boulevard in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. Mark Farrell will challenge London Breed and other candidates in the November 2024 mayoral election.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/20240205farrellmayor012.jpg?w=2500" alt="Mark Farrell, wearing a suit and tie, smiles at a podium with microphones as his wife holds &quot;Mark Farrell for Mayor&quot; sign behind him." class="wp-image-249204"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell used campaign money to reimburse himself for thousands of dollars worth of meals while also giving his wife, Liz, money for unknown office expenses.</figcaption></figure>

Farrell’s $1,245 in charges for two Walgreens visits and a $440 reimbursement to his wife were likely for thank-you notes, envelopes, stamps and other supplies, according to campaign officials.

Farrell’s $1,245 in charges for two Walgreens visits and a $440 reimbursement to his wife were likely for thank-you notes, envelopes, stamps and other supplies, according to campaign officials.

“I followed the law around fundraising and spending at all times,” Farrell said in a statement. “All of the fundraising and expenses that I submitted were legitimate, vetted and approved by counsel.”

“I followed the law around fundraising and spending at all times,” Farrell said in a statement. “All of the fundraising and expenses that I submitted were legitimate, vetted and approved by counsel.”

A spokesperson for the state’s Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) declined to comment for this story, instead pointing The Standard to state law on campaign funds being used to purchase meals. A local campaign committee can charge up to $200 for food and drinks as long as the charge is reasonably related to a political, legislative or governmental purpose. However, if the charge exceeds $200, “the expense must be directly related to one of these purposes,” such as a campaign fundraiser or a meeting to discuss a change in city policy.

A spokesperson for the state’s Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) declined to comment for this story, instead pointing The Standard to state law on campaign funds being used to purchase meals. A local campaign committee can charge up to $200 for food and drinks as long as the charge is reasonably related to a political, legislative or governmental purpose. However, if the charge exceeds $200, “the expense must be directly related to one of these purposes,” such as a campaign fundraiser or a meeting to discuss a change in city policy.

David Campos, a former chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party, said that when people have money left over in their officeholder accounts, they are normally asked to donate money to the party to help with voter registration. Campos said he did not recall Farrell donating money or furniture to the Democratic Party following the 2016 election.

David Campos, a former chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party, said that when people have money left over in their officeholder accounts, they are normally asked to donate money to the party to help with voter registration. Campos said he did not recall Farrell donating money or furniture to the Democratic Party following the 2016 election.

“I would hope the FPPC takes a look at all of the things you’re reporting on in terms of campaign expenditures,” Campos said.

“I would hope the FPPC takes a look at all of the things you’re reporting on in terms of campaign expenditures,” Campos said.

The statute of limitations on Farrell’s DCCC campaign spending has expired at this point. However, in narrow circumstances, the statute of limitations can be extended if a candidate or officeholder is found to have concealed a campaign violation.

The statute of limitations on Farrell’s DCCC campaign spending has expired at this point. However, in narrow circumstances, the statute of limitations can be extended if a candidate or officeholder is found to have concealed a campaign violation.

Peter Gallotta, a member of the DCCC since 2017, said that Farrell’s spending appears to be a “clear abuse” of his officeholder account.

Peter Gallotta, a member of the DCCC since 2017, said that Farrell’s spending appears to be a “clear abuse” of his officeholder account.

“They’re not personalized ATM accounts for people,” Gallotta said. “I think it’s shameful to raise money and then use that money for wining and dining. It erodes public trust.”

“They’re not personalized ATM accounts for people,” Gallotta said. “I think it’s shameful to raise money and then use that money for wining and dining. It erodes public trust.”

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oysters-and-trash-money">Oysters and trash money</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oysters-and-trash-money">Oysters and trash money</h2>

By keeping his DCCC campaign account active after the 2016 election, Farrell was able to continue accepting money from restricted sources that could give well above the $500 contribution limit for supervisor and mayor campaigns.

By keeping his DCCC campaign account active after the 2016 election, Farrell was able to continue accepting money from restricted sources that could give well above the $500 contribution limit for supervisor and mayor campaigns.

Near the end of March 2018, Farrell accepted a $5,000 contribution from a political action committee for the city’s trash company, Recology, and a $2,500 payment from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/10/san-francisco-nightlife-meet-citys-bar-crawl-king/">Mayes Oyster House</a>, one of San Francisco’s oldest restaurants. Mayes Oyster House had business before the Planning Commission about a week before making the contribution.

Meet San Francisco’s bar crawl king who bet big on city’s nightlife—and won

Near the end of March 2018, Farrell accepted a $5,000 contribution from a political action committee for the city’s trash company, Recology, and a $2,500 payment from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/10/san-francisco-nightlife-meet-citys-bar-crawl-king/">Mayes Oyster House</a>, one of San Francisco’s oldest restaurants. Mayes Oyster House had business before the Planning Commission about a week before making the contribution.

Farrell’s campaign said he did not solicit contributions from Recology and Mayes Oyster House, and he had no role in the Planning Commission’s unanimous vote to allow the restaurant to remain open every night until 2 a.m. That same week, Farrell stepped down from the DCCC.

Farrell’s campaign said he did not solicit contributions from Recology and Mayes Oyster House, and he had no role in the Planning Commission’s unanimous vote to allow the restaurant to remain open every night until 2 a.m. That same week, Farrell stepped down from the DCCC.

However, in one of Farrell’s final acts as mayor in June 2018, he appointed one of the restaurant’s owners, Matt Corvi, to a seat on the city’s Small Business Commission. The two men now serve on the board of the Olympic Club Foundation, which is connected to the private golf and social club that has hosted multiple U.S. Opens.

However, in one of Farrell’s final acts as mayor in June 2018, he appointed one of the restaurant’s owners, Matt Corvi, to a seat on the city’s Small Business Commission. The two men now serve on the board of the Olympic Club Foundation, which is connected to the private golf and social club that has hosted multiple U.S. Opens.

Corvi told The Standard in a phone interview that he runs the operations at Oyster Mayes House and had no idea the business had given money to the campaign of Farrell, whom he called a friend.

Corvi told The Standard in a phone interview that he runs the operations at Oyster Mayes House and had no idea the business had given money to the campaign of Farrell, whom he called a friend.

“Honestly, I was not in charge of finances at that time,” Corvi said. “I had two partners and I never wrote checks.”

“Honestly, I was not in charge of finances at that time,” Corvi said. “I had two partners and I never wrote checks.”

Owner Matt Corvi poses for a portrait outside of Mayes Oyster House in San Francisco, Calif., on Friday, August 12, 2022.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/RestaurantHaveNots-169.jpg?w=2500" alt="Matt Corvi man in a grey jacket stands with arms crossed in front of Mayes Oyster House restaurant, featuring a red facade and vintage neon sign." class="wp-image-68102"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayes Oyster House owner Matt Corvi received an appointment to the city’s Small Business Commission in June 2018, three months after his business gave $2,500 to Mark Farrell&#8217;s Democratic Party campaign account</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/RestaurantHaveNots-169.jpg?w=2500" alt="Matt Corvi man in a grey jacket stands with arms crossed in front of Mayes Oyster House restaurant, featuring a red facade and vintage neon sign." class="wp-image-68102"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayes Oyster House owner Matt Corvi received an appointment to the city’s Small Business Commission in June 2018, three months after his business gave $2,500 to Mark Farrell's Democratic Party campaign account</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/RestaurantHaveNots-169.jpg?w=2500" alt="Matt Corvi man in a grey jacket stands with arms crossed in front of Mayes Oyster House restaurant, featuring a red facade and vintage neon sign." class="wp-image-68102"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayes Oyster House owner Matt Corvi received an appointment to the city’s Small Business Commission in June 2018, three months after his business gave $2,500 to Mark Farrell&#8217;s Democratic Party campaign account</figcaption></figure>

David Latterman, a longtime political analyst in San Francisco, suggested that Recology’s contribution to Farrell deserves even more scrutiny after the company was found to be deeply enmeshed in a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/04/players-in-san-francisco-corruption-scandal-mohammed-nuru/">City Hall corruption scandal</a> that led to numerous arrests and Recology being <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/01/11/sf-investigates-recology-for-more-overbilling-after-95-million-payout-tied-to-corruption-scandal/">fined $100 million</a> in a rate-hike scheme.

San Francisco corruption scandal: A guide to the players involved

Recology faces new overbilling probe after $95 million payout tied to City Hall corruption scandal

David Latterman, a longtime political analyst in San Francisco, suggested that Recology’s contribution to Farrell deserves even more scrutiny after the company was found to be deeply enmeshed in a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/04/players-in-san-francisco-corruption-scandal-mohammed-nuru/">City Hall corruption scandal</a> that led to numerous arrests and Recology being <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/01/11/sf-investigates-recology-for-more-overbilling-after-95-million-payout-tied-to-corruption-scandal/">fined $100 million</a> in a rate-hike scheme.

Records show that when Farrell was mayor, he nominated Paul Giusti—a former Recology exec who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-corruption-paul-giusti-sandra-zuniga-sentencing/">admitted to arranging more than $1 million in bribes</a>—for a reappointment to the Treasure Island Development Authority a little more than a week after the $5,000 contribution went into Farrell’s DCCC campaign account.

Records show that when Farrell was mayor, he nominated Paul Giusti—a former Recology exec who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-corruption-paul-giusti-sandra-zuniga-sentencing/">admitted to arranging more than $1 million in bribes</a>—for a reappointment to the Treasure Island Development Authority a little more than a week after the $5,000 contribution went into Farrell’s DCCC campaign account.

“That needs to be looked at,” Latterman said. “It certainly raises eyebrows. Recology has been a thorn in the side of the city ethics-wise for years.”

“That needs to be looked at,” Latterman said. “It certainly raises eyebrows. Recology has been a thorn in the side of the city ethics-wise for years.”

A <a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24784441-city-ethics-commission-study-of-mark-farrells-behested-payments_dated-november-9-2020">report by the city’s Ethics Commission</a> in 2020 found that Farrell acted as an intermediary for $882,500 in “behested payments,” which are donations from private entities that Farrell passed along to the Parks Alliance, a nonprofit that disgraced former Public Works director Mohammed Nuru used as a slush fund in the City Hall corruption scandal. Farrell’s wife served as the chair of the Parks Alliance’s board of trustees during his time as a supervisor, and records show that Farrell helped with $35,000 in behested payments on behalf of Recology.

A <a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24784441-city-ethics-commission-study-of-mark-farrells-behested-payments_dated-november-9-2020">report by the city’s Ethics Commission</a> in 2020 found that Farrell acted as an intermediary for $882,500 in “behested payments,” which are donations from private entities that Farrell passed along to the Parks Alliance, a nonprofit that disgraced former Public Works director Mohammed Nuru used as a slush fund in the City Hall corruption scandal. Farrell’s wife served as the chair of the Parks Alliance’s board of trustees during his time as a supervisor, and records show that Farrell helped with $35,000 in behested payments on behalf of Recology.

The Ethics Commission report from 2020 noted that some of the behested payments Farrell made were timed closely to lobbyist contacts he had with AT&amp;T, Facebook and the San Francisco Realtors Association. In the case of AT&amp;T, Farrell introduced legislation that would have benefited the telecoms giant by preventing landlords from interfering with a tenant’s choice of internet service providers.

The Ethics Commission report from 2020 noted that some of the behested payments Farrell made were timed closely to lobbyist contacts he had with AT&amp;T, Facebook and the San Francisco Realtors Association. In the case of AT&amp;T, Farrell introduced legislation that would have benefited the telecoms giant by preventing landlords from interfering with a tenant’s choice of internet service providers.

In response to emailed questions about behested payments and the $5,000 contribution to Farrell’s DCCC campaign, Recology issued a statement saying the company “instituted a robust set of compliance practices” in the wake of the corruption scandal and no longer makes behested payments or contributes to elected officials’ campaigns in San Francisco.

In response to emailed questions about behested payments and the $5,000 contribution to Farrell’s DCCC campaign, Recology issued a statement saying the company “instituted a robust set of compliance practices” in the wake of the corruption scandal and no longer makes behested payments or contributes to elected officials’ campaigns in San Francisco.

“A lot has changed at Recology in five years,” Recology spokesperson Robert Reed wrote in an email to The Standard. “We have a new CEO, a new leadership team, and new management at our San Francisco operations.”

“A lot has changed at Recology in five years,” Recology spokesperson Robert Reed wrote in an email to The Standard. “We have a new CEO, a new leadership team, and new management at our San Francisco operations.”

A screen capture of Recology Executive Paul Giusti talking at the Commission on the Environment in San Francisco on Tuesday, October 10, 2017. Paul Giusti cooperated with the Federal Government in the Mohammed Nuru case.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20231212-guistizunigapreview-006.jpg?w=882" alt="Paul Giusti, a bald man in a pink shirt, speaks into a microphone in a room filled with seated people. Some attendees are paying attention, while others are focused on their own activities." class="wp-image-229963"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Paul Giusti, a former Recology executive who pleaded guilty for a bribery scandal, was nominated for a reappointment to the Treasure Island Development Authority after the trash company gave Mark Farrell’s Democratic Party campaign $5,000.</figcaption></figure>

Farrell’s campaign opponents said his unorthodox use of his DCCC account deserved scrutiny from voters.

Farrell’s campaign opponents said his unorthodox use of his DCCC account deserved scrutiny from voters.

“Mark’s growing list of ethics scandals is catching up to him and exposing why San Francisco can’t afford to give him another shot,” said Tyler Law, a consultant for the campaign of mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie. “Mark is literally invested in keeping the status quo.”

“Mark’s growing list of ethics scandals is catching up to him and exposing why San Francisco can’t afford to give him another shot,” said Tyler Law, a consultant for the campaign of mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie. “Mark is literally invested in keeping the status quo.”

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who is also running for mayor, said that Farrell’s liberal spending on meals and drinks with unknown individuals—as well as expenses Farrell paid directly to himself while taking money from special interests like Recology—should be thoroughly examined.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who is also running for mayor, said that Farrell’s liberal spending on meals and drinks with unknown individuals—as well as expenses Farrell paid directly to himself while taking money from special interests like Recology—should be thoroughly examined.

“It begs the question why someone who is receiving a lucrative mayor’s salary was nickel and diming the garbage company to pay for his meals and extravagances,” Peskin said. “It certainly is not the hallmark of the kind of leadership that San Francisco deserves.”

“It begs the question why someone who is receiving a lucrative mayor’s salary was nickel and diming the garbage company to pay for his meals and extravagances,” Peskin said. “It certainly is not the hallmark of the kind of leadership that San Francisco deserves.”

Peskin and Breed both had DCCC campaign committees in 2016, but the manner in which they used these accounts appears to differ greatly in scope from Farrell. Peskin had a zero balance by the end of 2016, while Breed—who was serving as the president of the Board of Supervisors at that time—spent the bulk of her expenditures on Democratic Party travel, office expenses and civic events like the Pride Parade.

Peskin and Breed both had DCCC campaign committees in 2016, but the manner in which they used these accounts appears to differ greatly in scope from Farrell. Peskin had a zero balance by the end of 2016, while Breed—who was serving as the president of the Board of Supervisors at that time—spent the bulk of her expenditures on Democratic Party travel, office expenses and civic events like the Pride Parade.

Breed had almost $9,000 in debt from her DCCC campaign at the end of 2016, which kicked off a fundraising drive the next year to bring in about $74,000. In total, she spent money on nine meals—three of which were for campaign staff and volunteer events, while the other six were noted as staff meals. The total cost came to just under $2,500.

Breed had almost $9,000 in debt from her DCCC campaign at the end of 2016, which kicked off a fundraising drive the next year to bring in about $74,000. In total, she spent money on nine meals—three of which were for campaign staff and volunteer events, while the other six were noted as staff meals. The total cost came to just under $2,500.

“How can the voters trust Mark Farrell to run San Francisco, if his default setting is habitually breaking the law for his personal benefit?” asked Joe Arellano, a spokesperson for Breed’s campaign.

“How can the voters trust Mark Farrell to run San Francisco, if his default setting is habitually breaking the law for his personal benefit?” asked Joe Arellano, a spokesperson for Breed’s campaign.

McMorris, of California Common Cause, said it’s unfortunate that many people have become conditioned to think campaign finance and ethics laws are less important than other laws because of the way <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/17/matt-haney-campaign-49ers-warriors-broadway-tickets/">lifestyle expenses</a> are routinely baked into campaigns.

McMorris, of California Common Cause, said it’s unfortunate that many people have become conditioned to think campaign finance and ethics laws are less important than other laws because of the way <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/17/matt-haney-campaign-49ers-warriors-broadway-tickets/">lifestyle expenses</a> are routinely baked into campaigns.

“You’re not robbing a bank or holding someone up, but these are important laws and I wish people would take them more seriously,” McMorris said. “They are part of our Democratic foundation.”

“You’re not robbing a bank or holding someone up, but these are important laws and I wish people would take them more seriously,” McMorris said. “They are part of our Democratic foundation.”

Mark Farrell lived large on campaign cash while mayor, supervisor

Gabe Greschler

How close is too close in the famously incestuous world of San Francisco politics?

How close is too close in the famously incestuous world of San Francisco politics?

One political operative is testing those boundaries.

One political operative is testing those boundaries.

Jay Cheng, the executive director of the moderate political action committee <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/08/09/da-jenkins-pocketed-six-figures-as-consultant-for-nonprofit-linked-to-boudin-recall-backers/">Neighbors for a Better San Francisco</a>, apparently spent time earlier this year moonlighting as a recruiter for the mayoral campaign of Mark Farrell.

DA Jenkins pocketed six figures as consultant for nonprofit linked to Boudin recall backers

Jay Cheng, the executive director of the moderate political action committee <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/08/09/da-jenkins-pocketed-six-figures-as-consultant-for-nonprofit-linked-to-boudin-recall-backers/">Neighbors for a Better San Francisco</a>, apparently spent time earlier this year moonlighting as a recruiter for the mayoral campaign of Mark Farrell.

Text messages shared with The Standard—first reported in a <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/moderate-groups-influence-election-2024-19416954.php">San Francisco Chronicle story</a> on moderate political influence in the city—show that Cheng attempted to facilitate the hiring of a Farrell campaign staffer for a tidy $15,000 a month salary about two weeks after Farrell declared his candidacy.

Text messages shared with The Standard—first reported in a <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/moderate-groups-influence-election-2024-19416954.php">San Francisco Chronicle story</a> on moderate political influence in the city—show that Cheng attempted to facilitate the hiring of a Farrell campaign staffer for a tidy $15,000 a month salary about two weeks after Farrell declared his candidacy.

“The offer is open!” Cheng wrote. “We’ll hold the position for you as long as you need.”

“The offer is open!” Cheng wrote. “We’ll hold the position for you as long as you need.”

The job never materialized, but the exchange is raising questions about the propriety of such an “offer” and how it squares with laws that bar cooperation between PACs and candidate campaigns. The answers could very well depend on what Cheng meant by the word “we”—was he speaking for Farrell’s campaign or simply for his PAC?

The job never materialized, but the exchange is raising questions about the propriety of such an “offer” and how it squares with laws that bar cooperation between PACs and candidate campaigns. The answers could very well depend on what Cheng meant by the word “we”—was he speaking for Farrell’s campaign or simply for his PAC?

Neighbors does not appear to have spent any funds on the November mayor’s race, but having insider information and access to the Farrell campaign could end up barring the political heavyweight from taking part in one of the most consequential San Francisco mayoral races in years.

Neighbors does not appear to have spent any funds on the November mayor’s race, but having insider information and access to the Farrell campaign could end up barring the political heavyweight from taking part in one of the most consequential San Francisco mayoral races in years.

Since the beginning of 2022, Neighbors has spent by far the most money of any group on local elections, totaling almost $9 million on everything from the recall of three school board members and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/06/07/recall-election-sf-district-attorney-chesa-boudin/">former District Attorney Chesa Boudin</a> to supporting and opposing ballot measures.

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Since the beginning of 2022, Neighbors has spent by far the most money of any group on local elections, totaling almost $9 million on everything from the recall of three school board members and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/06/07/recall-election-sf-district-attorney-chesa-boudin/">former District Attorney Chesa Boudin</a> to supporting and opposing ballot measures.

The group dropped almost $1 million on the March primary and has been funneling hundreds of thousands of dollars into <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/plan-to-fix-broken-san-franicisco-blows-up/">efforts to reform the City Charter</a> with TogetherSF Action, a fellow moderate group led by Cheng’s wife, Kanishka Cheng.&nbsp;

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The group dropped almost $1 million on the March primary and has been funneling hundreds of thousands of dollars into <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/plan-to-fix-broken-san-franicisco-blows-up/">efforts to reform the City Charter</a> with TogetherSF Action, a fellow moderate group led by Cheng’s wife, Kanishka Cheng.&nbsp;

Kanishka Cheng, founder and CEO of Together SF Action, left, and Jay Cheng, CEO of Neighbors for a Better San Francisco at an event in San Francisco on November 8, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2207-tsa-23110811.jpg?w=1641" alt="Kanishka Cheng and Jay Cheng smile a table at a social event. She has long hair and he wears glasses." class="wp-image-270463"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco political power couple Kanishka and Jay Cheng have close ties to mayoral candidate Mark Farrell.</figcaption></figure>

Neighbors and TogetherSF Action have not taken a formal position on the November mayor’s race, but Jay Cheng’s close proximity to the Farrell campaign has left some political observers wondering if the clique might be getting too cozy.

Neighbors and TogetherSF Action have not taken a formal position on the November mayor’s race, but Jay Cheng’s close proximity to the Farrell campaign has left some political observers wondering if the clique might be getting too cozy.

TogetherSF Action has received substantial funding from Michael Moritz, who is also chairman of The Standard.&nbsp;

TogetherSF Action has received substantial funding from Michael Moritz, who is also chairman of The Standard.&nbsp;

Farrell’s campaign staff has numerous links to the staff of TogetherSF Action’s nonprofit arm. Kanishka Cheng is a former staffer for Farrell, while his campaign manager, Jade Tu, used to work as chief of staff for the nonprofit. Margaux Kelly, the nonprofit’s chief community officer, took a leave of absence to work on the campaign. Jess Montejano, a former Farrell staffer, serves as campaign spokesperson while his firm, Riff City Strategies, continues to handle communications for TogetherSF Action.

Farrell’s campaign staff has numerous links to the staff of TogetherSF Action’s nonprofit arm. Kanishka Cheng is a former staffer for Farrell, while his campaign manager, Jade Tu, used to work as chief of staff for the nonprofit. Margaux Kelly, the nonprofit’s chief community officer, took a leave of absence to work on the campaign. Jess Montejano, a former Farrell staffer, serves as campaign spokesperson while his firm, Riff City Strategies, continues to handle communications for TogetherSF Action.

Sean McMorris, an ethics expert at the government transparency nonprofit California Common Cause, said there are many instances in which campaigns and independent committees will engage in “wink and nod coordination” with one another that doesn’t explicitly break ethics rules.

Sean McMorris, an ethics expert at the government transparency nonprofit California Common Cause, said there are many instances in which campaigns and independent committees will engage in “wink and nod coordination” with one another that doesn’t explicitly break ethics rules.

“More often than not, committees know the rules,” McMorris said. “But the seasoned campaign advisors also know the inside game that can be played to circumvent coordination laws.”

“More often than not, committees know the rules,” McMorris said. “But the seasoned campaign advisors also know the inside game that can be played to circumvent coordination laws.”

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor at San Francisco State University, said that a clear separation between a candidate campaign and a political action committee is important so candidates do not become “an appendage” of corporate, union or nonprofit interests.

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor at San Francisco State University, said that a clear separation between a candidate campaign and a political action committee is important so candidates do not become “an appendage” of corporate, union or nonprofit interests.

“They can talk about issues,” McDaniel said about the separate campaigns. “They can talk about candidates. But it isn’t supposed to be coordinated.”

“They can talk about issues,” McDaniel said about the separate campaigns. “They can talk about candidates. But it isn’t supposed to be coordinated.”

Jay Cheng said in a text message that he did not provide any services of value to the Farrell campaign and his effort to hire an employee was “not a reportable contribution.”&nbsp;

Jay Cheng said in a text message that he did not provide any services of value to the Farrell campaign and his effort to hire an employee was “not a reportable contribution.”&nbsp;

“Neighbors for a Better San Francisco has not made any decision yet about our involvement in the mayor’s race, and has not made any endorsements in the mayor’s race,” Cheng said.

“Neighbors for a Better San Francisco has not made any decision yet about our involvement in the mayor’s race, and has not made any endorsements in the mayor’s race,” Cheng said.

He compared his effort on behalf of Farrell to previous help he provided in connecting mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie—a nonprofit founder and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">heir to the Levi’s fortune</a>—to his eventual political consultant, Tyler Law.&nbsp;

Daniel Lurie may be the richest person to ever run for mayor of SF. What does he own?

He compared his effort on behalf of Farrell to previous help he provided in connecting mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie—a nonprofit founder and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">heir to the Levi’s fortune</a>—to his eventual political consultant, Tyler Law.&nbsp;

However, it should be noted that Cheng’s middleman work in that instance occurred before Lurie had announced he was running for mayor. By the time Cheng was acting as an intermediary for Farrell, the candidate had already <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/16/san-francisco-mark-farrell-mayor-race-fundraising/">raised hundreds of thousands of dollars</a>.

Breed challenger hauls in $200K in first 2 days of campaign

However, it should be noted that Cheng’s middleman work in that instance occurred before Lurie had announced he was running for mayor. By the time Cheng was acting as an intermediary for Farrell, the candidate had already <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/16/san-francisco-mark-farrell-mayor-race-fundraising/">raised hundreds of thousands of dollars</a>.

Mark Farrell, a former San Francisco mayor and supervisor, formally announce his candidacy at the San Francisco Baseball Academy at 3010 Geary Boulevard in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2004. Mark Farrell will challenge London Breed and other candidates in the November 2024 mayoral election.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/20240205farrellmayor011.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man speaks into microphones at a podium with a campaign sign, while a focused woman listens behind him." class="wp-image-258433"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayoral candidate Mark Farrell said he is actively courting the support of moderate political groups like Neighbors for a Better San Francisco and TogetherSF Action.</figcaption></figure>

Lurie’s campaign learned of Neighbors’ close relationship with the Farrell campaign after it hired the person Cheng was recruiting, and officials suggested that Farrell’s coordination with Neighbors “crossed a bright red ethical line.”

Lurie’s campaign learned of Neighbors’ close relationship with the Farrell campaign after it hired the person Cheng was recruiting, and officials suggested that Farrell’s coordination with Neighbors “crossed a bright red ethical line.”

“We desperately need to turn the page on the City Hall insiders that have allowed a culture of corruption to fester,” Law told The Standard.

“We desperately need to turn the page on the City Hall insiders that have allowed a culture of corruption to fester,” Law told The Standard.

Farrell issued a statement saying he was working to gain the support of Neighbors, TogetherSF Action and other moderate-aligned groups “by highlighting our vision and detailed policies to get San Francisco back on track.”

Farrell issued a statement saying he was working to gain the support of Neighbors, TogetherSF Action and other moderate-aligned groups “by highlighting our vision and detailed policies to get San Francisco back on track.”

He added, “No one from any of these organizations is working with our campaign, and we will continue to meet with them and answer their questions in an effort to earn their support.”

He added, “No one from any of these organizations is working with our campaign, and we will continue to meet with them and answer their questions in an effort to earn their support.”

Neighbors’ clout in San Francisco politics should not be underestimated. The group’s aggressive campaigning on the 2022 recall elections made it an immediate threat to anyone who opposes its political platform.

Neighbors’ clout in San Francisco politics should not be underestimated. The group’s aggressive campaigning on the 2022 recall elections made it an immediate threat to anyone who opposes its political platform.

Mayor London Breed’s campaign declined to comment on Cheng’s assistance to the Farrell campaign.

Mayor London Breed’s campaign declined to comment on Cheng’s assistance to the Farrell campaign.

Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/06/aaron-peskin-mayoral-campaign-launch/">Aaron Peskin</a>, who has attempted to brandish himself as the leading progressive voice in the mayor’s race, said in a text message that he was not concerned with the “shenanigans” of local political groups.

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Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/06/aaron-peskin-mayoral-campaign-launch/">Aaron Peskin</a>, who has attempted to brandish himself as the leading progressive voice in the mayor’s race, said in a text message that he was not concerned with the “shenanigans” of local political groups.

‘I’m focused on fixing our city’s problems and hearing from voters and neighbors on what their priorities are,” Peskin said.

‘I’m focused on fixing our city’s problems and hearing from voters and neighbors on what their priorities are,” Peskin said.

Voters with long memories may recall that a previous Farrell campaign was accused of similar ethical shortcomings.&nbsp;

Voters with long memories may recall that a previous Farrell campaign was accused of similar ethical shortcomings.&nbsp;

In 2016, the former supervisor agreed to pay <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/SF-Ethics-Commission-slashes-fine-for-Farrell-9981935.php">a $25,000 settlement</a> after one of his campaign consultants, Chris Lee, was found to have illegally coordinated with an independent expenditure committee. Farrell was initially hit with a fine of $191,000, but the penalty was significantly reduced.

In 2016, the former supervisor agreed to pay <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/SF-Ethics-Commission-slashes-fine-for-Farrell-9981935.php">a $25,000 settlement</a> after one of his campaign consultants, Chris Lee, was found to have illegally coordinated with an independent expenditure committee. Farrell was initially hit with a fine of $191,000, but the penalty was significantly reduced.

The state’s Fair Political Practices Commission cleared Farrell of any wrongdoing, saying he was unaware of the illegal coordination, and the Ethics Commission agreed to the lower settlement in a 3-2 vote.

The state’s Fair Political Practices Commission cleared Farrell of any wrongdoing, saying he was unaware of the illegal coordination, and the Ethics Commission agreed to the lower settlement in a 3-2 vote.

Hello, Neighbors: Mark Farrell’s mayoral campaign gets cozy with rich political group

Han Li

With 500 vacant police officer positions to fill, San Francisco mayoral hopefuls are voicing their support for more police officers as concerns about crime loom large over local politics.

With 500 vacant police officer positions to fill, San Francisco mayoral hopefuls are voicing their support for more police officers as concerns about crime loom large over local politics.

The three frontrunners, all moderate Democrats, agree on the importance of a fully staffed police department. But the debate over how to achieve it spilled out into the open this week after one candidate publicized his plans.

The three frontrunners, all moderate Democrats, agree on the importance of a fully staffed police department. But the debate over how to achieve it spilled out into the open this week after one candidate publicized his plans.

Shortly after Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and interim mayor, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/12/san-francisco-mayoral-candidate-mark-farrell/">released his platform</a> to tackle the police staffing shortage, his competitors Mayor London Breed and Daniel Lurie tried to discredit him with aggressive rebuttals.

Farrell wants citywide street vending ban, and retired cops back on the beat

Shortly after Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and interim mayor, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/12/san-francisco-mayoral-candidate-mark-farrell/">released his platform</a> to tackle the police staffing shortage, his competitors Mayor London Breed and Daniel Lurie tried to discredit him with aggressive rebuttals.

“Mark Farrell’s policy platform is just a thin minestrone of half-baked ideas and plagiarism,” said Joe Arellano, Breed’s campaign spokesperson, in a strongly worded response that accused Farrell of copying her ideas and “cosplaying as mayor from your kitchen.”

“Mark Farrell’s policy platform is just a thin minestrone of half-baked ideas and plagiarism,” said Joe Arellano, Breed’s campaign spokesperson, in a strongly worded response that accused Farrell of copying her ideas and “cosplaying as mayor from your kitchen.”

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Mark Farrell lived large on campaign cash while mayor, supervisor

Hello, Neighbors: Mark Farrell’s mayoral campaign gets cozy with rich political group

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