San Francisco Department on the Status of Women Under Investigation
Background on Spending Concerns
The San Francisco Department on the Status of Women has come under scrutiny for its recent expenditures linked to the Shift Happens conference. Notable expenses include:
- $90,000 for catering services
- $120,000 for video production
- $25,000 on exhibitions and educational materials
- $70,000 allocated to administrative costs
Concerns were raised when a spokesperson indicated that the department “never requested nor received from IGNITE any additional (vendor) attachments or invoices,” raising potential contract violations, as revealed by documents reviewed by The Standard.
Previous Conference Management
In 2023, the department had already hosted a prior version of the Shift Happens conference, collaborating with the African American Arts and Culture Complex for event management.
Leadership Response and Allegations
In response to the allegations, Ellis stated her intention to “prove that the allegations against me are baseless.” She claims that her current situation stems from retaliation related to her reporting of misconduct within a foster care program.
Ellis emphasized her dedication to “justice, fairness, equality, transparency, and accountability” during her tenure at the department.
Internal Culture Concerns
A former employee shared insights into the department’s culture, indicating a shift away from violence prevention services towards more politically charged activities. This change mirrors practices observed during Ellis’ prior engagement with a group called Emerge.
The staff member expressed surprise at Ellis’s recent leave, suggesting it was overdue.
Financial Oversight and Disclosures
Reports allege that Ellis discussed reallocating existing funds from the department’s budget to support select organizations of her choice. The current budget stands at approximately $12 million, with around $10 million earmarked for grants to external groups.
Furthermore, Ellis amended her 2023 economic disclosure statement eight months post initial filing, revealing income between $10,000 and $100,000 from Power PAC and contributions linked to Rhodesia Ransom’s state Senate campaign. City records indicate that between 2022 and 2024, the department paid $125,000 to Power PAC, which aims to enhance voter participation and back progressive candidates of color. Ransom’s campaign, during the same period, compensated Ellis’s consulting firm, Southern Belle Strategies, with $21,750.
Interim Oversight
With Ellis on leave, the mayor’s office has appointed City Administrator Carmen Chu to oversee the Department on the Status of Women, while Linda Yeung will manage daily operations.
Han Zou, a spokesperson for Lurie, remarked, “Our administration has the highest expectations for city employees,” confirming that the individual involved has been placed on leave pending an investigation.
