Gov. Gavin Newsom has appointed two new board directors to oversee California’s high-speed rail project, both former top officials in San Francisco City Hall.
Joining the High-Speed Rail Authority Board are Steve Kawa and Jason Elliott, who each served as chiefs of staff to multiple mayors and became long-time political fixtures. Elliott later worked as deputy chief of staff in the governor’s office from 2022 to 2024. The two new directors will replace board Chair Tom Richards and Vice Chair Nancy Miller.
A spokesperson for Newsom characterized the appointees as “two trusted advisors and innovative leaders who combined bring over 50 years of experience navigating large-scale projects through demanding political and fiscal landscapes.” They will be compensated $100 for every day of work…