Dennis Herrera, one of San Francisco’s most influential public officials of the last quarter century, has announced plans to retire at the end of 2026, closing a chapter that spans some of the city’s most consequential legal and policy battles.
Herrera currently serves as general manager of the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), a role he assumed in 2021 after nearly 20 years as San Francisco’s city attorney. His departure will mark the end of more than three decades of public service in city government.
A Career Defined by Public Service
Herrera’s involvement in San Francisco government dates back to 1990, when he joined the city’s Waterfront Plan Advisory Board. He later served on several city commissions before being elected city attorney in 2001, becoming the first Latino to hold the position.
Over six terms as the city’s chief lawyer, Herrera built a reputation for taking on high-profile legal challenges while expanding the influence of the City Attorney’s Office. Colleagues and former staff members frequently credited him with creating a culture that emphasized professionalism, public accountability, and legal rigor.
Mayor Daniel Lurie praised Herrera’s long record of service, describing him as a leader whose institutional knowledge and experience have benefited the city for decades.
Key Legal Battles and National Impact
Among Herrera’s most notable achievements was his role in defending San Francisco’s decision to issue same-sex marriage licenses in 2004 under then-Mayor Gavin Newsom. The legal fight continued for years and ultimately contributed to broader victories for marriage equality in California and across the United States.
Herrera also became known nationally for challenging policies introduced during President Donald Trump’s first administration. His office filed multiple lawsuits involving immigration, sanctuary city protections, and federal funding disputes. Those efforts helped position San Francisco as a leading legal voice among local governments pushing back against federal actions they viewed as unlawful.
Former colleagues, including U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria and Supervisor Matt Dorsey, have highlighted Herrera’s commitment to public service and his willingness to support attorneys pursuing difficult or politically sensitive cases.
Leading the SFPUC Through Change
In 2021, Herrera transitioned from City Hall’s legal office to the SFPUC, taking over an agency responsible for water, wastewater, and power services. His appointment came during a challenging period for the commission following a corruption scandal that led to the departure and eventual conviction of former general manager Harlan Kelly.
During his tenure, Herrera focused on strengthening public trust in the agency while advancing long-term infrastructure and energy initiatives. Supporters point to his efforts to position San Francisco for a potential expansion of municipal power services and greater control over its energy future.
Looking Ahead
Herrera said he is announcing his retirement early to give city leaders sufficient time to identify his successor. While he will remain in office through December, attention is already turning to who will eventually lead the SFPUC.
As San Francisco prepares for that transition, Herrera leaves behind a legacy tied to landmark legal victories, public utility reform efforts, and decades of service that helped shape the city’s modern political and legal landscape.
