San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie has appointed Alan Wong, a community college trustee and Sunset District native, as the new supervisor for District 4. The decision ends a highly watched and politically sensitive appointment process that challenged the mayor’s administration over the past few weeks.
Wong, 38, has served on the Board of Trustees for City College of San Francisco since 2020 and was re-elected in 2024. He also works as the policy director at the Children’s Council of San Francisco. Wong previously worked as an aide to former Supervisor Gordon Mar, who narrowly lost his seat to Joel Engardio in 2022. Engardio was later removed in a recall election in September.
Third Supervisor in Three Months
Wong will become the area’s third supervisor in only a few months. After Engardio’s recall, Mayor Lurie appointed Beya Alcaraz on November 6, but she resigned just one week later after controversy surrounding her former pet shop business.
Wong is expected to be sworn in on Monday and will immediately face major decisions that may shape the upcoming June election. While he has not yet confirmed whether he will run to keep the seat, he will likely be a strong contender if he chooses to compete.
Key Vote Ahead: The “Family Zoning” Proposal
One of Wong’s first major challenges will be Tuesday’s vote on Lurie’s Family Zoning Plan. The plan aims to increase housing opportunities in the western neighborhoods, including areas of the Sunset that have historically resisted new development.
Wong declined to comment on where he stands regarding the proposal, leaving many residents eager to hear his views.
Engardio’s Reaction
Former Supervisor Joel Engardio, who supported rezoning efforts, said the city must prioritize affordable housing and build homes that future generations can afford.
A Fresh Start for the Mayor’s Office
Wong’s appointment gives Mayor Lurie an opportunity to move past the controversy surrounding Alcaraz’s short tenure. The previous appointment raised concerns about the mayor’s vetting process, prompting Lurie to redesign how candidates are screened.
The updated process included a detailed five-page questionnaire and direct conversations with Sunset residents. Many locals strongly preferred having a supervisor who grew up in the neighborhood — something Wong emphasized in his statement.
“I’ve lived in the Sunset my entire life,” Wong said. “I’m stepping up because I believe our community can thrive again with strong, trustworthy leadership.”
Wong’s Priorities: Safety, Clean Streets, and Education
At a recent town hall meeting, Wong shared his top priorities:
- Public Safety – More police recruitment and more officers patrolling the streets.
- Clean and Safe Neighborhoods – Ensuring cleaner public spaces and better community services.
- Education – Strong support for local schools and youth programs.
He also expressed his goal to rebuild trust in government and ensure the Sunset receives its fair share of city resources.
Community Support
Frank Noto, co-founder of Stop Crime SF, praised Wong’s background in policy and community work. Wong has served on the group’s board and has completed training programs with the San Francisco Fire Department and Police Department.
Past Criticisms and Achievements
During his time on the CCSF Board of Trustees, Wong faced criticism from budget experts who questioned certain financial decisions. Wong defended the board’s actions, stating the concerns were overstated.
Wong also speaks Cantonese and has been a strong supporter of preserving Cantonese language programs at City College, an effort widely appreciated by the local Chinese community.
Upcoming Challenges for District 4
Beyond zoning debates, Wong will also confront ongoing tensions over the Upper Great Highway. The roadway remains closed to cars because of 2024’s Proposition K — a move supported by Engardio but opposed by most Sunset residents.
Wong has not yet shared his position on the issue or the new park known as Sunset Dunes. Some supervisors want a compromise measure that would reopen the road to cars on weekdays.
Community Voices
Engardio said the park should remain open as it is, warning against political games. Meanwhile, Lucas Lux, president of Friends of Sunset Dunes, hopes Wong will support the park and resist pressure to close it.
How Wong Was Selected
After Alcaraz resigned, Lurie quickly created a shortlist of candidates. Final contenders included Wong, hardware store owner Albert Chow, Asian Art Commissioner Tiffany Deng, City Hall aide Natalie Gee, and former California Academy of Sciences executive Ike Kwon.
However, issues such as voting records, nonprofit tax concerns, and political controversies eliminated several candidates from the running.
Conclusion
Alan Wong’s appointment marks a new chapter for San Francisco’s Sunset District. As a lifelong resident with experience in community issues, education, and public safety, he enters the role with both strong local support and significant challenges ahead. His decisions in the coming weeks — especially on zoning and the Great Highway debate — will shape not only the district’s future but also his political career.
