Supervisor Completes 200 Hours of Service
In a surprising twist of events, Isabella “Beya” Alcaraz, the newly appointed supervisor of District 4, has resigned after just over 200 hours in office. Her resignation, announced on a Thursday evening, comes amid a flurry of controversy surrounding her prior business practices.
Background of Alcaraz’s Appointment
Alcaraz, a 29-year-old art and music teacher and former owner of The Animal Connection pet store, was appointed by Mayor Daniel Lurie on November 6. Her rise to the position followed a unique pitch to Lurie during a night market in September, where she expressed her interest in the supervisor role.
Her appointment came at a crucial time. The vacancy was created by the recall of Supervisor Joel Engardio, sparked by public uproar over the closure of the Great Highway. Despite initial interest from other candidates, Alcaraz emerged as the chosen candidate when others dropped out for various reasons.
The Controversy Unfolds
Shortly after her appointment, Alcaraz faced scrutiny regarding her business conduct while running The Animal Connection. Reports surfaced about the store’s financial difficulties and unsanitary conditions left for the new owner, Julia Baran. Concerns from Baran about Alcaraz’s management practices fueled public and media inquiries.
- Alcaraz’s term lasted approximately 200 hours.
- She faced allegations of financial misconduct and poor business practices.
- The Animal Connection reportedly lost tens of thousands of dollars from 2020 to 2023.
Resignation and Aftermath
Within days of being sworn in, Alcaraz resigned, stating she regretted the conditions under which she left her pet shop. Her departure has raised questions regarding the mayor’s vetting process for candidates. At a press conference, Lurie took responsibility but refrained from detailing the vetting procedures, promising a thorough review.
Political Implications
Alcaraz’s resignation represents a significant setback for Mayor Lurie, whose administration aimed to stabilize the political landscape in San Francisco after a tumultuous period. Critics now question Lurie’s ability to attract competent candidates, particularly for such a crucial role.
Former Board President Aaron Peskin noted the challenges in finding an appropriate candidate who could align with Lurie’s agenda while being responsive to the district’s needs.
As this situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the mayor’s office will adapt and who will step in to fill the important role in District 4.
