Audit finds San Francisco tax official steered $10M contract to friend
5 hours ago
- #corruption
- #procurement
- #audit
- San Francisco's chief assistant treasurer improperly steered a $10 million tax management contract to Mechanical Orchard, a company led by her friends, creating a 'pay-to-play' appearance.
- An independent audit confirmed she manipulated the procurement process, favoring Mechanical Orchard by tailoring the scope of work and withholding information from other bidders.
- Shah's actions included undisclosed personal relationships with company executives and potential familial benefit, as her niece was hired by a subcontractor.
- The audit criticized the treasurer's office for lax controls and lack of checks and balances, prompting organizational reforms.
- Mechanical Orchard withdrew from the contract after media exposure, and Shah, placed on leave, later left city employment.