SF leaders tack to same course for America's Cup

It's extremely rare for this board to vote unanimously on anything of significance. This is a precedent that should continue.

This city has become so accustomed to fractiousness and infighting at City Hall, and head-butting between all the interest groups that local politicians represent, that it had almost forgotten what it feels like to have an event that everyone can agree on. But the rare show of unity is good for everyone.

For the supervisors, it's a reminder that they can work successfully with each other, a reminder that breeds civility and respect. For the mayor, it's an achievement that emphasizes his persuasion and negotiation skills. And for the citizens, it's proof that there are actually projects and values that unite everyone who lives here.

"It can make you think anything is possible in this city, and I believe it," said Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi, who introduced the first resolution calling for the America's Cup to be held in San Francisco. "We've had unanimous votes before, and I'm sure we'll have them again. But what makes this one all the more rare is just how high profile this was."

High profile - and controversial. Because there was so much money involved, it would have been easy for the project to get derailed. The fact that the city had to provide race organizers with development rights and long leases on port property heightened the chances that noisy interest groups and nervous supervisors might have shut down the city's bid.

But ultimately, money worked in the opposite way. The mayor worked with supervisors to address their concerns. The final bid earned solid marks from analysts, who showed that it would make a great deal of money for the city in the long term. The races are expected to create $1.2 billion for the local economy, and generate more than 8,000 jobs.

That's a deal that no one in city government could afford to turn down. So everyone from the Port Authority to the board's most ornery members got on board.

Now it's up to Oracle CEO Larry Ellison and his racing team to recognize San Francisco's hard work and commitment to the event.

"It's wonderful that San Francisco's in this position, we can only hope that Mr. Ellison agrees," Mirkarimi said. "We've done our part. So now, the mistletoe awaits."

Your move, Mr. Ellison.

This article appeared on page A - 129 of the San Francisco Chronicle

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