Sworn in under blue skies at the Civic Center Plaza, the new mayor said it is a new day in San Francisco, vowing to restore trust in government and a sense of safety in a city that has been ridden by public drug usage and homelessness. His lofty goals came with a caveat, as he reminded supporters that change "doesn't happen overnight."
The Levi-Strauss heir and nonprofit founder said his administration will focus on results, with his top priorities being tackling homelessness and the fentanyl crisis, improving city services, and revitalizing a struggling post-pandemic downtown.
"San Francisco has long been known for its values of tolerance and inclusion. But nothing about those values instructs us to allow nearly 8,000 people to experience homelessness in our city," he said. "You voted for accountability and change -- a clear mandate that my administration will work to fulfill every single day."
FULL VIDEO: Daniel Lurie inaugurated as San Francisco's 46th mayor
Daniel Lurie inaugurated as San Francisco's 46th mayor
What are Lurie's top priorities?
Making good on a campaign promise, Lurie announced he is declaring a fentanyl state of emergency. He said he will be proposing a package of legislation before the Board of Supervisors to help address the amount of fentanyl on the streets and reduce the number of overdoses from the lethal synthetic drug.
Come spring, he said San Francisco will create a 24/7 drop-off-center for police to take individuals struggling with addiction or mental health disorders. He also said the city will create a police unit that will be based around Union Square and Moscone Center. While it's currently unclear if he will retain his position, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott told ABC7 News he welcomes these proposals.
"The way that works and he used the word 'police friendly,' a place for us that's not jail, that's not taking somebody to an emergency room or a hospital when somebody needs help. And we have people that are in the throes of addiction, we can take them to that facility and release them," Scott said. "I see his vision and I'm going to work to fulfill it."
Aside from major challenges in the city, Lurie will also inherit a ballooning budget shortfall, with a projected $876 million two-year budget deficit. While acknowledging "tough decisions" will have to be made, Lurie said there will be "zero cuts" to first responders, listing sworn officers, 911 operators, EMT's, firefighters, and nurses.
Lurie will be the city's first mayor in more than a century to come into the office without any prior city government experience. He defeated incumbent Mayor London Breed in the November election.
Notable guests included outgoing Breed, former Mayor Willie Brown, Attorney General Rob Bonta, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California Senate Majority Leader Mike McGuire, and Warriors head coach Steve Kerr - who spoke ahead of the swearing-in ceremony.
"Just like a coach doesn't score any baskets or block any shots, he isn't going to be able to wave a magic wand and create safety and security, affordable housing, better schools, and a thriving economy for all," Kerr said. "We are going to do that together. Mayor-elect Lurie is going to give us inspiration and a vision. He will listen and he will provide the political guidance we need to navigate the issues we face."
VIDEO: Warriors' Steve Kerr speaks at inauguration of new San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie
Warriors' Steve Kerr speaks at inauguration of new San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie
The new mayor started the day volunteering at St. Anthony's, walking through the Tenderloin, and enjoying hot chocolate with his family at Ghirardelli Square before the swearing-in ceremony.
After Lurie's speech, the community was invited inside City Hall for an open house that included all the pomp and circumstance: live music and performances, a photo line with the mayor, and an opportunity to write a wish for the city.
MORE: San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie brings historic plans to Chinatown for inauguration day
SF Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie heading to Chinatown for inauguration
Interfaith leaders celebrate Lurie
Hundreds gathered Tuesday night to celebrate San Francisco's incoming mayor in a heartfelt interfaith service. Before she took office, a similar ceremony was held at Third Baptist Church for Mayor London Breed.
The evening began under the dome of Congregation Emanu-El, where Lurie grew up attending. A procession of nearly 60 interfaith leaders set the tone for a night of unity and hope.
"This is in solidarity with our community and the value of interfaith," said Cantor Arik Luck of Congregation Emanu-El.
The program featured music, a reading from the Quran, and prayers for the city. Religious leaders touched on critical issues, including housing, safety, and San Francisco's ongoing homelessness crisis.
"We hear the cries of those who make the streets their bed tonight," one speaker prayed, emphasizing the need for compassion and action.
With levity, Reverend Norman Fong added a note of hope and renewal: "Say you're beautiful!" he urged attendees.
MORE: SF Mayor London Breed reflects on her time, shares advice for Lurie on last day in office
SF Mayor London Breed reflects on her years in office
The evening concluded with a deeply personal moment as Lurie's father, Rabbi Brian Lurie, delivered an emotional blessing to his son.
"I love you very much," the elder Lurie said, his voice breaking. "I believe with all my heart he will be a blessing for all of San Francisco."
Tearing up, the mayor-elect made a heartfelt promise to the city.
"I commit to all of you: I will never stop working for each and every San Franciscan," Lurie said. "Thank you, and I'll see you tomorrow."
Chinatown Celebration
Mayor Lurie's inauguration celebration in SF Chinatown
Anticipation was running high Wednesday night in San Francisco's Chinatown, awaiting the celebration of Mayor Lurie's inauguration.
Several blocks of Grant Avenue was closed to traffic, making way for this night market complete with food vendors and DJs.
"I thought it was a great idea to combine the community and the music and bring people together and not just the Asian community, and music does that," said Jee Hiraja, Alamo resident.
Local shop owners are wishing the new mayor the best, in hopes of seeing some rejuvenation.
"It's good luck for him and hopefully, everything will be a fresh start for San Francisco," said David, Owner Wai HIng Chinese Craft Import.
The mayor arrived to the sounds of celebration and sights of Chinese tradition, greeting the public and making his way into his inaugural dinner.
Many handshakes and hellos, the night showcased everyone from former mayors to to the state's attorney general, San Francisco's DA, and police chief.
"I think the will to keep the city going in the right direction is as strong as ever and there's a lot of hope and optimism," said SFPD Chief Bill Scott.
Lurie made his way to the stage with this message: "It is a new era here in San Francisco. One that is going to be defined not only by change, but accountability and service to the people of San Francisco."
He told the crowd it was clear he wanted to be in Chinatown on this night.
"This community is what powers our city and you have my commitment that the API and Chinese community will have a friend and an ally in me every single day," Lurie said.
The mayor ended his speech with a call to action, encouraging the crowd to join the thousands of people taking to the heart of Chinatown.
"It's time to roll up our sleeves and get to work, but first tonight we celebrate," Lurie said.