REPORT
San Francisco Voter Information Pamphlet
Special Recall Election
Letter from the Director
July 7, 2025
Dear San Francisco Voter,
Only voters registered in Supervisorial District 4 are eligible to participate in the Special Recall Election occurring on September 16, 2025. All voters registered in District 4 will receive ballots in the mail beginning in mid-August.
All voters will receive a one-card ballot that provides a “Yes-or-No” question on whether to recall the Supervisor for District 4. If more voters select “Yes,” the Supervisor will be removed from office. If the Supervisor is recalled, the Mayor will appoint someone to the office who will serve until the next scheduled election in June 2026.
On August 18, the Department will open three official ballot drop boxes at the Ortega Branch Library (3223 Ortega St), the Parkside Branch Library (1200 Taraval St), and City Hall (1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Pl.). Early voting will also begin at City Hall on August 18.
On Election Day (September 16) the Department will open 20 polling places in District 4 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Department will release preliminary election results on Election Night at approximately 8:45 p.m., and final results will be certified no later than October 16.
To learn more about the recall, including voter eligibility and ways to vote, review this voter information pamphlet and visit the “Special Recall Election” page on our website, sfelections.gov.
Respectfully,
John Arntz, Director
Purpose of the Voter Information Pamphlet
The San Francisco Department of Elections has prepared this pamphlet to help you vote in the September 16, 2025, Special Recall Election. Inside, you’ll find your sample ballot, information about the recall and your voting options.
This pamphlet is available in English, Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino. You can access it online in PDF, HTML, XML, or MP3 format at sfelections.gov/vip. If you need large print or audio on a CD or USB, please call (415) 554-4375, or email sfvote@sfgov.org.
Voting Options
All eligible District 4 voters can vote by mail or in person during the voting period.
To Vote by Mail
Follow the ballot instructions, detach the receipt, seal your ballot in the return envelope and sign it using the same signature you used when registering to vote. Return your ballot by September 16. To be counted, the envelope must be postmarked by that date or delivered by 8 p.m. to a ballot drop box or voting site.
Ways to Return Your Ballot
By mail using the prepaid USPS envelope. Visit usps.com/locator to find a mailbox. If returning on Election Day, check pickup times to ensure your ballot is collected on time.
In person at City Hall (Room 48) starting August 18: weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed September 1); weekend of September 13 and 14, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; and Election Day, September 16, 7 a.m.–8 p.m.
At one of the three drop boxes, open August 18 through Election Day, located at Ortega Library (3223 Ortega St), Parkside Library (1200 Taraval St), and City Hall (1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Pl).
At any of the 20 polling places in District 4 on September 16, 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Visit sfelections.gov/pollsite or call (415) 554-4375 to find a location.
Track Your Ballot
Visit sfelections.gov/voterportal to track your ballot. If there is an issue with your ballot envelope, such as a missing signature, the portal will alert you and provide instructions on how to fix it.
Need a Replacement Ballot?
Request one at sfelections.gov/voterportal, call (415) 554-4375, visit Room 48 in City Hall, or ask a poll worker.
To Vote in Person
At City Hall (Room 48), beginning August 18: weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed September 1); weekend of September 13 and 14, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; and on Election Day, September 16, 7 a.m.–8 p.m.
At your polling place on Election Day, September 16: open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Your polling place address is printed in the top right-hand corner of the Vote-by-Mail Instructions enclosed with your ballot. You may also look it up at sfelections.gov/voterportal.
What to Expect at the Polls
Check in by giving your name and address. Choose to vote on a paper ballot or an audio or touchscreen ballot-marking device. After marking your selection, place your ballot in a secrecy folder or envelope. Cast your ballot by inserting it into the ballot scanner or ballot box.
Election Results
The Department of Elections will release preliminary results at 8:45 p.m. on Election Night and continue updates throughout the canvass. Final certified results will be available by October 16. All results will be posted at sfelections.gov/results.
To get updates by email, subscribe at sfelections.gov/trustedinfo.
Ballot counting is open for public observation at the Department’s office or via livestream at sfelections.gov/observe.
Voter Bill of Rights
The California Voter Bill of Rights ensures that all eligible voters in the state can participate in elections fairly and freely. You have the following rights:
1. The right to vote if you are a registered voter. You are eligible if you are:
· A U.S. citizen living in California
· At least 18 years old
· Registered where you currently live
· Not currently serving a state or federal prison term for the conviction of a felony, and
· Not currently found mentally incompetent to vote by a court
2. The right to vote even if your name is not on the list. You will vote using a provisional ballot. Your vote will be counted if elections officials determine that you are eligible to vote.
3. The right to vote if you are still in line when the polls close.
4. The right to cast a secret ballot without anyone bothering you or telling you how to vote.
5. The right to get a new ballot if you have made a mistake if you have not already cast your ballot. You can:
· Ask an elections official at a polling place for a new ballot; or
· Exchange your vote-by-mail ballot for a new one at an elections office, or at your polling place, or
· Vote using a provisional ballot, if you do not have your original vote-by-mail ballot.
6. The right to get help casting your ballot from anyone you choose, except from your employer or union representative
7. The right to drop off your completed vote-by-mail ballot at any polling place in California.
8. The right to get election materials in a language other than English if enough people in your voting precinct speak that language.
9. The right to ask questions to elections officials about election procedures and watch the election process. If the person you ask cannot answer your questions, they must send you to the right person for an answer. If you are disruptive, they can stop answering you.
10. The right to report any illegal or fraudulent election activity to an elections official or the Secretary of State’s office.
· On the web at www.sos.ca.gov
· By phone at (800) 345-VOTE (8683)
· By email at elections@sos.ca.gov
If you believe you have been denied any of these rights, call the Secretary of State’s confidential toll-free Voter Hotline at (800) 345-VOTE (8683).
Accessible Voting
We are committed to helping all voters vote privately and independently. Learn about accessible voting resources, services, and curbside voting at sfelections.gov/accessibility.
You may ask someone for help marking your ballot. This can be a poll worker, but not your employer or union representative. Helpers can assist physically but not make choices for you.
If you or someone you know is homebound or hospitalized, we can deliver or pick up a ballot. To request this service, call (415) 554-4375 or email ballotdelivery@sfgov.org.
Multilingual Support
We provide ballots, materials, and assistance in English, Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino. Reference ballots in Burmese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese are also available at all in-person voting sites and by mail.
To receive election materials in one of these languages, update your language preference at sfelections.gov/language or call (415) 554-4375.
We also offer interpretation in many other languages upon request. To learn about polling place language services, go to sfelections.gov/voteatyourpollingplace.
Voter Data Confidentiality
Your voter information can’t be used for commercial purposes. Certain non-commercial uses are allowed. Learn more at sos.ca.gov or call 800-345-8683.
Safe at Home Program
If you’re in a dangerous situation and need a confidential mailing address, contact the Safe at Home program at sos.ca.gov/registries/safe-home or call 877-322-5227.
About the Recall Election
The Board of Supervisors is the legislative branch of government for the City and County of San Francisco. Its members create laws and approve the annual budget for City departments. The Board consists of eleven members, each representing a different district in San Francisco.
District 4 includes the Sunset and Parkside neighborhoods. The current Supervisor was elected on November 8, 2022, to serve a term from January 8, 2023, through January 8, 2027.
The recall measure for the District 4 Supervisor appears on this ballot following the certification of a recall petition.
If more voters select “No” than “Yes,” the Supervisor will remain in office. If “Yes” receives more votes, the Supervisor will be removed from office, and the Mayor will appoint a replacement to serve until the next regularly scheduled election in June 2026. The District 4 seat will then appear on the June 2026 ballot to fill the remainder of the current term and again on the November 2026 ballot to fill the full term beginning in January 2027.
Words You Need to Know
By the Ballot Simplification Committee
Recall Election is how voters can remove an elected official from office. In San Francisco, the timing of a recall election for local officials is set by section 14.103 of the San Francisco Charter.
Recall proponents must circulate a recall petition and submit voter signatures to the Department of Elections (Department). Upon certifying the sufficiency of a recall petition’s signatures, the Director of Elections must schedule a special recall election that will take place in 105 to 120 days.
After the recall election, the Department counts the votes and certifies the election results within 30 days of the election. The Board of Supervisors then declares the election results by approving a resolution at a public meeting. The recalled official’s seat becomes vacant 10 days after the Board approves this resolution.
Once the seat becomes vacant, the Mayor may appoint a person to fill the vacancy. The appointed person will serve until the next City election.
A Recall Measure Regarding Joel Engardio
Shall Joel Engardio be recalled (removed) from the San Francisco Board of Supervisors?
This measure requires 50%+1 affirmative votes to pass.
Digest by the Ballot Simplification Committee
The Way It Is Now: The San Francisco Board of Supervisors (Board) is San Francisco’s legislative body consisting of 11 members, each elected to represent one of San Francisco’s 11 geographic districts.
Joel Engardio was elected to a four-year term on November 8, 2022, to represent District 4. The next scheduled election for District 4’s seat is set for November 3, 2026.
The Proposal: Proposition A is a recall measure that, if passed, would remove Joel Engardio from office 10 days after the Board declares the results of the September 16, 2025, Special Recall Election. The Mayor could appoint a replacement to serve as District 4 Supervisor until the City holds an election to fill the vacancy.
The election to fill the unexpired term would most likely be held during the next regularly scheduled election, on June 2, 2026. The candidate would serve the remainder of Joel Engardio’s term. The replacement appointed by the Mayor may run as a candidate in that election.
A "YES" Vote Means: If you vote "yes," you want to remove Joel Engardio from the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.
A "NO" Vote Means: If you vote "no," you want to keep Joel Engardio on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.
Controller's Statement on "A"
City Controller Greg Wagner has issued the following statement on the fiscal impact of Proposition A:
Should the proposed recall measure be approved by the voters, in my opinion, it would have a minimal impact on the cost of government. If the recall measure is approved, there may be additional costs to print material in the regularly scheduled June 2026 election, though at a level that cannot be determined at this time.
How "A" Got on the Ballot
On May 29, 2025, the Department of Elections (Department) certified that the recall petition regarding Joel Engardio, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors representing District 4, contained a sufficient number of valid signatures to require a special recall election.
The petition was submitted to the Department on May 22, 2025. Pursuant to California Elections Code §11225, the Department initially conducted a random sample of 549 signatures, representing 5% of the total submitted. Based on the result of this preliminary review, the Department proceeded with a full verification of all signatures submitted.
Upon completion of the verification process, the Department determined that 10,523 signatures were valid. This number exceeds the statutory threshold of 9,911 valid signatures necessary to qualify the petition for a special recall election.
The above statement is an impartial analysis of this measure. It is followed by the Proponents’ Statement of Reasons for the Recall, the Supervisor’s Answer, the Supervisor’s Statement of Qualifications, and any paid arguments for and against the measure.
Proponents’ Statement of Reasons for the Recall and Supervisor Engardio’s Answer
The recall petition circulated in Supervisorial District 4 included a statement of reasons from the proponents of the recall and a response from the Supervisor. Both are provided below in accordance with California Elections Code Section 11325.
Proponents’ Statement of Reasons
TO THE HONORABLE San Francisco Board of Supervisor Member Joel Engardio: Pursuant to Section 11020, California Elections Code, the undersigned registered qualified voters of San Francisco Supervisorial District Four, in the State of California, hereby give notice that we are the proponents of a recall petition and that we intend to seek your recall and removal from the office of Member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District Four, in San Francisco, California. The grounds for the recall are as follows:
When Supervisor Engardio campaigned for office, he promised to deliver transparency, public safety, and safer streets for the residents of District Four ("D-4"). Once elected, Engardio betrayed voters in D-4 by reneging on his promises, failing to consult with them on their perspectives and needs, and neglecting neighborhood safety.
By sponsoring and campaigning for an initiative to close the Great Highway permanently (Proposition K), Engardio violated his campaign promises of transparency and disregarded the needs and concerns of D-4 residents. Engardio denied his constituents an opportunity for notice and input before voting to put Prop K on the ballot. His indifference to his constituents' opinions was proven beyond doubt when they voted overwhelmingly against Prop K.
Engardio's Prop K jeopardizes our neighborhood safety. Traffic will be routed onto high-injury, congested thoroughfares; commute times will be lengthened, exhaust-spewing vehicles will increase on residential streets in D- 4; response times for emergency services will increase; a major evacuation route for Western San Francisco will be unavailable in the event of disaster or conflagration; traffic congestion will increase in D-4 neighborhoods and Golden Gate Park, affecting air quality and pedestrian safety.
Engardio has failed to represent D-4 residents and deserves to be recalled immediately.
Supervisor Engardio’s Answer to the Statement
I strive to be a responsive and accessible supervisor, from trash cans to broken benches. Every fix matters.
As supervisor, I've
- Brought more police protection to the Sunset
- Fought to bring algebra back to middle schools
- Created night markets with community partners
- Reduced red tape for small businesses
- Secured funding for Sunset Boulevard greenway improvements
- Delivered relief funds to Taraval merchants impacted by street reconstruction
I ask voters to consider the entirety of my work — not only one issue.
I'm humbled by the views of residents who opposed Prop K. Many said they didn't feel heard in the process, and I take this feedback to heart.
I'm hearing loud and clear that we need safer residential streets and better traffic flow. We can all agree on this.
This recall is based on my support for putting Prop K to a democratic vote of the people. While voters have a right to recall elected leaders, this recall will not change the outcome or implementation of Prop K.
If you are considering signing, please reach out to my office first. I'm committed to working with you to address your concerns.
Together, let's create our best Sunset.
Supervisor Joel Engardio
DeclineToSignEngardioRecall.org
Officeholder’s Statement of Qualifications
Under California Elections Code, Section 11327, the elected officer sought to be recalled may submit a statement for the inclusion in the Voter Information Pamphlet. The following statement was submitted by Supervisor Engardio to the Department of Elections:
Supervisor Joel Engardio’s Statement
No on A. Keep San Francisco Moving Forward
San Francisco is finally heading in the right direction — and I’m proud to be part of that progress. Voters elected me because they wanted results, not politics.
That’s why I:
● Stood with parents and helped restore algebra in 8th grade.
● Secured beat patrols throughout the Sunset to make our neighborhoods safer.
● Restored parking access at Lower Great Highway, which was overrun by RVs for years.
● Launched the Sunset Night Market with community partners, drawing tens of thousands of people to support local businesses.
Now, I’m building on that momentum by working closely with Mayor Lurie. Together, we’re creating a brighter future for the Sunset and San Francisco.
This recall isn’t about corruption, wrongdoing, or failing to do my job — it’s political retaliation over a single issue.
My record proves I’m able to deliver on the many issues Sunset residents care most about: public safety, great schools, effective government, and thriving small businesses.
I listen. I lead with empathy. And I work tirelessly for every Sunset resident.
Vote No on A. Let’s keep San Francisco moving forward.
StopTheEngardioRecall.com
Joel Engardio
District 4 Supervisor
Paid Arguments
For this election, only registered voters who live in District 4 may submit paid ballot arguments. Arguments are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments are printed as submitted. Spelling and grammatical errors have not been corrected.
Paid Arguments in Favor of Proposition A
CADC: From Endorsement to Outrage
We supported Joel Engardio in his last three campaigns for supervisor. However, he failed to inform us about major decisions, including his authored legislation to close the Great Highway-a stance that contradicts his campaign promises.
Our community supported him, he turned his back. After a five-month process, 93% of our members voted to recall Engardio. Trust is irreparably broken. We stand for the everyday people of the Sunset.
District 4 deserves honest leadership. Vote YES to take our voice back.
Chinese American Democratic Club (CADC)
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Chinese American Democratic Club.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Calvin Louie, 2. Sam Kwong, 3. Michael Chan.
Public office is a public trust.
Joel Engardio has broken that trust - abandoning the taxpayers who elected him. He promised to represent Sunset residents, then ignored them. He promised fiscal discipline, then looked the other way as rates soared and spending and corruption ballooned.
A supervisor's duty is to protect the public - not special interests or campaign donors.
I've spent my career fighting for honest government and accountability. Engardio has failed on both counts.
Vote YES on the recall. Demand integrity. Demand better.
Quentin L. Kopp, Retired Judge, Former State Senator and Supervisor
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Quentin L. Kopp.
From Volunteer to Betrayed
I believed in Joel Engardio. I volunteered for him. I told neighbors he cared.
I was wrong.
He promised to listen, then stopped holding town halls. He promised an "Asian Night Market," then took credit for a community-led event he nearly ruined. He promised to support our compromise on the Great Highway — then forced a permanent closure on us.
Now, he blames others and claims to be our savior.
That's not public service. That's deception. I trusted him. You shouldn't. Vote YES.
Selena Chu, District 4 Mother and Recall Volunteer
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Selena Chu.
Broken Promises, No Accountability
The closure of The Upper Great Highway is one example of Joel Engardio's betrayal of District 4. He broke the trust of his constituents.
On the last possible day, Joel Engardio placed Prop K on a city-wide ballot. He did not listen to Sunset residents. He held zero listening sessions. When residents and small businesses asked him to rescind Prop K, Engardio doubled down. He never apologized or acknowledged his mistake. He willfully ignored his constituents' voices.
I am a small business owner. My hardware store was burned by an arsonist. That case remains unresolved. Joel Engardio has not made District 4 safer.
Joel Engardio's small business initiatives are ineffective or expensive, or both. He takes credit for the work of others. The Night Market was community driven, but he claimed it as his idea. The Mayor secured compensation for merchants impacted by the Taraval Project but Engardio claimed credit.
That is Joel Engardio's track record — borrowed ideas, poor execution, and a lack of compassion and empathy for his constituents.
Every voter in District 4 should vote YES to recall Engardio.
Albert Chow, Great Wall Hardware
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Albert Chow.
Betrayal on the Great Highway
After campaign promises to support traffic on the Great Highway on weekdays, Joel Engardio secretly wrote a citywide ballot measure removing that option, knowing D4 would vote against it. He strategically broadened the voter base, spread misinformation about it to the far ends of the City and got it passed. Instead of working with his constituents, he went around them. That's not representation; it's betrayal.
By closing the shared highway with its existing trails, multi-use path, no cross traffic, and a safety record beyond compare, Supervisor Engardio increased residential traffic congestion by many thousands of vehicles per day. Big rigs, auto-transport trucks, fuel tankers, Safeway vans, and 100+ motorcycle caravans now thunder past homes shaking foundations. We're paying millions to attempt to fix the dangerous, loud, traffic chaos and safety problems he caused on our once quiet streets.
Supervisor Engardio's hidden meetings with a select few, legislation written behind closed doors to eliminate community voice and engagement, and votes that are against the will of the majority of D4 residents cannot be allowed to continue.
We need a Supervisor we trust.
Vote Yes to recall Joel Engardio.
Judith A. Gorski, D4 Resident
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Judith A. Gorski.
Joel Engardio talks a big game about fiscal responsibility — but when residents fought Recology's 30% rate hike, he just disappeared. He said he'd help but he didn't.
Why? Maybe because the Teamsters — who benefit from those inflated rates — gave him campaign cash right when the recall threat emerged.
Engardio isn't standing up for taxpayers. He's protecting his political future.
He votes for higher spending, ignores waste, and breaks promises to the very people who elected him.
We don't need another politician who says one thing and does another. We need someone who actually fights for us.
Vote YES on A to Recall Engardio!
STOP the sellout. START THE ACCOUNTABILITY!
Quentin L. Kopp, President, San Francisco Taxpayers Association
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: San Francisco Taxpayers Association.
Recall the Recaller
Engardio made a name recalling others - now he calls it "unjust''? Hypocrisy!
He says recalls must meet high standards - unless he's the one starting them! Now that he's betrayed 64% of voters and broken core promises, he claims the rules don't apply to him.
The Great Highway closure is just the tip of the iceberg. He listens to billionaires, not Sunset families. He leads recalls but thinks he's untouchable.
Let's hold the Recaller accountable. Karma is a bitch. Vote YES to recall Joel Engardio.
Otto Pippenger, District 4 Resident
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Otto Pippenger.
Joel Chooses Politics Over Public Safety
As a long-time Westside merchant and public safety advocate, I've seen what keeps us safe — and what doesn't. Engardio secretly backed wealthy special interests to shut down the Great Highway, endangering public safety and lying to voters.
Traffic that once flowed safely along the coast now floods our residential streets — bringing more speeding, pollution, and danger for kids and seniors.
Emergency response times are worse, a coastal evacuation route is gone, and crime is rising in the unmonitored closed-off area.
Engardio caused this mess — and now he's hiding from it.
He broke faith with the people who trusted him.
He's not a public servant. He's a political operator.
Vote YES to recall Joel Engardio — before he does more damage.
David Heller, Member SFPD Small Business Advisory Forum
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: David Heller.
Emergency Neglect, Environmental Failure — Vote Yes on A to Recall Engardio!
After the Lahaina fires, neighbors begged Engardio to restore emergency sirens. He promised action - then stripped the Great Highway of its emergency access status! Sirens are still broken. Evacuation routes are now blocked. And raw sewage still spews onto our beach.
He calls himself an "environmental steward," but voted to shrink the Coastal Zone and gut environmental review. Whose interests is he really serving?
We asked for transparency. We got spin. We asked for safety. We got silence.
Don't trust him with the Sunset. Vote to Recall Engardio!
Stephen J. Gorski, Esq., District 4 Resident for 45 Years
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stephen Gorski.
ENGARDIO SUPPORTS A DISASTROUS REZONING PLAN — RECALL HIM!
Joel Engardio doesn't represent District 4. He represents the developers and YIMBY special interests funding his political career.
Engardio supports a monumental upzoning plan that would impact 22,700 Sunset District parcels. New 14-story buildings would be permitted from Irving to Vicente. These towers would be primarily market rate because developers are driving the bus.
Existing affordable housing would not be protected and only minimally required in new buildings. The Sunset's beloved small businesses will not survive Engardio's upzoning. Residents will be displaced. Our neighborhoods are in danger.
Engardio's alliances are clear: YIMBY groups and luxury developers. His priorities: their agenda, not ours.
District 4 deserves a supervisor who will bring accountability back to the Sunset. District 4 deserves better. Restore leadership that listens. Recall Joel Engardio.
Heather Davies, District 4 Resident
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Heather Davies.
Joel Engardlo represents wealthy outsiders instead of us.
Joel Engardio says he should not recalled for a single issue, Prop K, which closed the Great Highway against the majority wishes of his D4 constituents.
The single issue is Joel Engardio, not the closure.
Beginning with his campaign for Supervisor, he repeatedly gaslit and manipulated D4 residents to promote his political career and ingratiate himself with non-resident billionaire tech bros and real estate investors who are funding his anti-recall campaign.
Two groups he has failed are seniors and the disabled because gridlock and heavy traffic has created streets that are more dangerous for them. And he has failed to create a "park" that is accessible and safe. For 10 blocks along the Lower Great Highway, there is not one accessible ADA compliant point of access to the "park" for the disabled. The four lanes are all open to racing bikers, rendering all lanes extremely dangerous to the disabled and elderly.
Engardio has done nothing to make the "park" safe for all.
Recall Joel Engardio Now!
Patricia Arack, Leader
Concerned Residents of the Sunset
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Patricia Arack.
Joel Engardio Has Failed District 4 — It's Time for New Leadership
Supervisor Joel Engardio put the demands of a small group of uncompromising activists ahead of the needs of the District 4 residents he was elected to represent. He should be recalled.
He Burdened Working Families.
Engardio championed the permanent closure of the Lower Great Highway to vehicles — a vital commuter artery used by 17,000 to 20,000 drivers each day. His decision has made life harder for District 4 families, substantially increasing traffic on residential streets, worsening commute times, and creating new safety risks near schools and homes.
He Sided with Extremists Over a Reasonable Compromise.
The City had a functional compromise: keep the Great Highway open to cars on weekdays and close it for recreational use on weekends. But Engardio endorsed FULL closure and aligned himself with activists who refused to accept anything less than a total ban on vehicles.
He Ignored His Constituents.
64% of District 4 voters rejected Prop K — a clear message of opposition to permanent closure. These residents deserve a supervisor who listens to them and understands that many working families rely on safe, direct routes to get to school, work, and home.
Engardio is waging a war on cars — and it's District 4 residents who are paying the price. Recall Joel Engardio.
San Francisco Republican Party
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: San Francisco Republican Party.
End of Paid Arguments IN FAVOR of Proposition A
Paid Arguments Against Proposition A
Don't Risk Our Progress - Vote No on A
Joel Engardio is working with Mayor Lurie, creating a brighter future for the Sunset and San Francisco. Because of their work, San Francisco is finally heading in the right direction, don't risk that progress — Vote No on Prop A, reject the recall.
No one agrees with their Supervisor or Mayor on every issue. If we recalled every elected official every time we disagreed on a vote, we wouldn't have a government that functions.
Recalls are for serious wrongdoing or corruption, not disagreement over a single issue. Sadly, this recall is about political retaliation over a single issue. And it's putting the great things happening in the Sunset at risk.
Joel Engardio has shown he delivers on the many issues we Sunset residents care most about: public safety, great schools, effective government, and thriving small businesses.
Let's keep moving forward. Reject the recall, reject political retaliation.
Vote NO on A.
stoptherecall.com
Anne Herbst, Far Out Gallery
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stop the Recall, Stand with Joel Engardio.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Jeremy Stoppelman, 2. John Wolthuis, 3. Chris Larsen.
Let's Keep Our Elected Leaders Working Together — Vote NO on A
For the first time in years, San Francisco finally has aligned leadership moving the city forward. Mayor Lurie, Board President Rafael Mandelman and Supervisor Joel Engardio are working together to improve public safety, fix city government, support small businesses, and rebuild trust.
Joel is a key part of that team. He's a practical, responsive leader who listens to his constituents and delivers real results.
This recall threatens that progress. It's not about corruption or misconduct — it's about one vote. That's not what recalls are for.
We need to keep working together, not tear each other down.
Vote NO on A to keep Joel Engardio and Board President Mandelman focused on the work that matters.
stoptherecall.com
Alexander Wons
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stop the Recall, Stand with Joel Engardio.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Jeremy Stoppelman, 2. John Wolthuis, 3. Chris Larsen.
San Francisco Police Officers Reject the Recall - NO on A
From Day 1, I've made public safety a priority because that is what Sunset residents asked. I work every day to ensure Sunset residents, businesses and visitors feel safe, despite the fact that our police department is short 500 officers.
Since taking office, I've secured beat patrols throughout the Sunset to make our neighborhoods safer. Brought 10 retired police ambassadors to help deal with low-level emergencies throughout the neighborhoods. I won't stop doing everything I can to make sure every person feels safe.
Working with our police and Mayor Lurie, we're finally on the right track to ensure all San Franciscans feel safe. Don't risk the work we are all doing together.
Vote No on A. For a Safer Sunset.
Supervisor Joel Engardio
stoptherecall.com
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stop the Recall, Stand with Joel Engardio.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Jeremy Stoppelman, 2. John Wolthuis, 3. Chris Larsen.
The Sierra Club Opposes Prop A
The Sierra Club urges you to vote NO on Proposition A and oppose the recall of Supervisor Engardio.
- Supervisor Engardio has been a champion of environmental issues.
- He supported clean water for San Francisco in opposing the SF v EPA lawsuit.
- He voted for environmental champions on the SFPUC board.
- He supported the March 2024 affordable housing bond, the Nov 2024 bond for affordable housing for seniors and efforts to convert unused office buildings into downtown housing.
The Sierra Club is proud to support Supervisor Engardio.
stoptherecall.com
Sierra Club, San Francisco Bay Chapter
Brian Reyes
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stop the Recall, Stand with Joel Engardio.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Jeremy Stoppelman, 2. John Wolthuis, 3. Chris Larsen.
Joel Listens to Parents and Supports Our Schools — Vote No on A
Joel Engardio stood with parents when we fought to restore Algebra in 8th grade and protect merit-based admissions at Lowell. And he's continued to show up — not just during elections, but year-round — listening to families and working for better schools.
As parents and public school advocates, we support Joel because he values data, equity, and academic excellence. He understands that San Francisco's future depends on giving every student access to strong public schools.
Recalling Joel won't help a single student or fix a single classroom. It will only slow down the progress we've made.
Let's keep Joel working for our kids. Vote NO on A.
stoptherecall.com
Parag Gupta
Alexander Wons
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stop the Recall, Stand with Joel Engardio.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Jeremy Stoppelman, 2. John Wolthuis, 3. Chris Larsen.
Joel Fights for Our Kids and Families
When the San Francisco School Board removed the ability for students to take Algebra in the 8th grade, Joel Engardio stood up for our kids.
Thanks to Joel's work and advocacy, students from the Sunset and across San Francisco can take 8th grade algebra again, helping them get ready for high school.
And when Lowell High School tried to change its admission requirements, Joel fought to ensure that admission was based on academic achievement, not a random lottery.
As proud Westside families, we support Joel because he is willing to stand up for us to ensure kids in every neighborhood of the city get the education and opportunities they deserve.
We reject the recall and support Joel Engardio. Vote No on A
stoptherecall.com
Westside Family Democratic Club
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stop the Recall, Stand with Joel Engardio.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Jeremy Stoppelman, 2. John Wolthuis, 3. Chris Larsen.
Joel Cares for Our Seniors — Vote No on A
We are Chinese American seniors and proud members of the SF Happy Dance Troupe, and SF Laughing Dancing Team. We love our community — and we love that Joel Engardio does too.
Joel always shows up to support our performances, helps us feel safe in our neighborhoods, and takes time to listen to our concerns. He helped bring more police patrols and ambassador teams to our streets so elders could feel secure walking to the store, the doctor, or the park.
We support Joel because he respects and protects Asian seniors. This recall is unfair — and it would hurt our community.
Please join us in voting NO on A.
Let Joel keep working for our families and our future.
stoptherecall.com
Tina Liang
Bruce Liang
The true source(s) of funds for the printing fee of this argument: Stop the Recall, Stand with Joel Engardio.
The three largest contributors to the true source recipient committee: 1. Jeremy Stoppelman, 2. John Wolthuis, 3. Chris Larsen.
End of Paid Arguments AGAINST Proposition A
About the Ballot Simplification Committee
The Ballot Simplification Committee writes summaries of local ballot measures. We print their final summaries in the Voter Information Pamphlet. Current members of this Committee include:
Betty Packard, Chair
Nominated by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences
Ruth Grace Wong
Nominated by the League of Women Voters
Pamela Troy
Nominated by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences
Michele Anderson
Nominated by Pacific Media Workers Guild
Alicia Wang
Recommended by the Superintendent of San Francisco Unified School District
Ana Flores, ex officio*
Deputy City Attorney
Michael Gerchow, ex officio*
Deputy City Attorney
*By law, the City Attorney or representatives from the City Attorney’s Office can speak at the Committee meetings but cannot vote.
About the Elections Commission
The Elections Commission oversees public elections in San Francisco and sets general policies for the Department of Elections. It also approves and assesses plans for each election. Current members of this Commission include:
Michelle Parker, President
Appointed by the Board of Education
Renita LiVolsi, Vice President
Appointed by the Public Defender
Kelly Wong
Appointed by the Board of Supervisors
Rebecca Bers
Appointed by the City Attorney
Trevor McNeil
Appointed by the Mayor
Vacant
To be appointed by the District Attorney
Vacant
To be appointed by the Treasurer
September 16, 2025, Special Recall Election
Only voters who live in District 4 and registered with a residential address in District 4 can vote in this election.
Key Dates
August 18
- Vote-by-mail packets sent to registered District 4 voters.
- Any District 4 voter may opt to access, mark, and print an accessible ballot at sfelections.gov/access.
- Three ballot drop boxes open, located at:
- Ortega Branch Library (3223 Ortega St)
- Parkside Branch Library (1200 Taraval St), and
- City Hall (1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Pl.)
August 18 – September 16
In-person voting is available at City Hall, Room 48. Voting hours are:
- Monday – Friday, August 18 – September 15: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (except September 1 holiday)
- Saturday and Sunday, September 13 - September 14: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Election Day, Tuesday, September 16: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
September 2
- Deadline to register to vote and receive a ballot by mail.
- After this date, eligible residents can still register and vote in person at City Hall, Room 48, or at a polling place on Election Day.
Election Day, Tuesday, September 16
- City Hall, Room 48 and 20 polling places located in District 4 are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Ballot returned in person must be delivered by 8 p.m.
- Ballot returned by mail must be postmarked before 8 p.m. on Election Day.
- First preliminary election results released by the Department at 8:45 p.m.
October 16
Deadline for the Department of Elections to certify and release final election results.
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San Francisco, CA 94102
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