SFMTA Lays Off 12 Senior Managers, And It Sounds Like There May Be More Job Cuts to Come

The SF Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) laid off 12 senior managers as part of a reorganization to address a projected $50 million deficit for the upcoming fiscal year. Interim director Julie Kirschbaum stated that the layoffs aim to eliminate duplicative roles and prepare for further organizational changes. She acknowledged in an email that the staff cuts would likely lead to more job losses, indicating a challenging transition ahead. The only confirmed layoff is Chief Strategy Officer Jonathan Rewers, whose department was disbanded and reassigned within the agency. Kirschbaum's approach reflects a commitment to streamline operations, but it raises concerns about the potential negative impact on Muni service quality.

Critics express skepticism about whether reducing staff will lead to more efficient transit services. Mayor Daniel Lurie, who retained Kirschbaum from the previous administration, may be aligning SFMTA's management with a more business-like approach. The agency faces not only immediate financial challenges but also a looming $320 million deficit for the following fiscal year, emphasizing the urgency of these changes.