To the dedicated men and women of the San Francisco Police Department:
My name is Louis Wong, and I am deeply honored to be running for President of the San Francisco Police Officer's Association (POA). I started my career as a police officer with the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) on June 26, 1995.
I completed the Field Training Program at Park Station and subsequently finished my probationary year at Southern Station. After that, I worked for three years with the Tenderloin Task Force. In 1999, I returned to Southern Station, where I have proudly served the community and made a positive impact in this remarkable city.
Since joining the POA in 2014, I have committed myself to the association's welfare, serving in various roles, including Station Representative, Sergeant at Arms, and currently as Secretary on the Executive Board. Your welfare is my priority.
I have had the privilege of representing numerous members in interviews with the Department of Police Accountability (DPA) and in Internal Affairs cases. My efforts reflect a steadfast commitment to the well-being of our members.
I am dedicated to collaborating closely with our defense team to effectively address (added) allegations raised by a DPA investigator whenever our members encounter a complaint. This process involves a comprehensive review of each case to ensure that our officers' rights are fully protected. We will do everything possible to ensure a fair and just process for our members.
I want to work with our members and local leaders to lower the retirement age from 58 to 55. This change will help us keep staff and improve retention. Allowing our dedicated professionals to retire a few years earlier will create a better work environment. It will also open up more positions for younger officers, helping to refresh our department.
I will advocate for a substantial wage increase during our contract negotiations scheduled for July 2026. This objective represents a firm commitment. Securing a significant raise is essential to address the trend of officers seeking opportunities in other departments.
I regularly engage in community events and functions across San Francisco, working to expand my network and foster relationships that will benefit our members. Local leaders and stakeholders are essential allies in our efforts to achieve important goals, such as advocating for a reduction of the retirement age to 55 and securing support for our upcoming contract negotiations.
I believe it’s essential to address our diminishing healthcare options. I’ve noticed that my primary physician has stopped accepting Blue Shield, which limits our choices. Moreover, Delta Dental’s coverage has become insufficient for those of us needing major dental procedures. Additionally, many chiropractors and acupuncturists do not accept our insurance, American Specialty, further restricting our access to care. It’s crucial that we take action to improve these services for everyone.
Let’s work together to enhance our recruitment efforts and bring in new hires and lateral transfers to ease the burden on our officers. I understand the stress of responding to multiple calls and the anxiety of working understaffed. Your well-being is my priority, and we shouldn’t face this challenge alone.
I understand the responsibilities of leading our dedicated membership and am ready to invest the time needed to address your concerns. You can count on me for prompt communication and support. With my experience and connections in the community, I am confident in our path to success.
Together, we can navigate the path forward and reach desired outcomes. Your support is vital for us to make these changes a reality.
Respectively yours,
Louis
KEY INITIATIVES
I will use our existing contract to strengthen our position for the 2026 contract negotiations, aiming to make our police department one of the highest-paid in California.
Reduce the retirement age from 58 to 55 to improve staffing and retention.
Enhance recruitment efforts that prioritize work-life balance, ensuring personal and professional growth opportunities.
Enhance healthcare options and benefits to support the well-being of members.
Strengthen relationships with DPA to streamline processes, reduce complaints, and foster a positive workplace environment.
ENDORSEMENTS
Commander Tracy McCray (Former POA President)
Captain Amy Hurwitz
Captain Sergio Chin
Lieutenant Leonard Poggio
Lieutenant Patrick McCormick
Lieutenant Dien Ha
Acting Lieutenant Joseph Clark
Sgt. Jose Jimenez (POA Board Member/ Dual Endorsement)
Sgt. Richard Cibotti
Sgt. Larry Chan (Retired)
Sgt. Pavel Khmarskiy (POA Board Member)
Sgt. Jennifer Marino
Sgt. Brent Cader (POA Board Member)
Sgt. Daniel Miller (POA Board Member)
Sgt. Brian Kneuker (Pride Alliance-Vice President)
Sgt. Jung Park (POA Board Member)
Sgt. Mark Fraize (POA Board Member)
Sgt. Tom McWilliams (POA Board Member)
Officer Trent Collins (President of Officers for Justice)
Officer Kathleen McKiernan (Pride Alliance-Vice President)
Officer Gaetano Acerra (POA Board Member-Sergeant At Arms)
Officer Gene Gabriel (POA Board Member)
Officer Erik Whitney (POA Board Member)
Officer Ginger Bass
Officer Nicole Gilliam
Officer Raylene Larot
Hanley Chan (SF Veterans Affairs Commission)
Additional endorsements are pending