Daniel Lurie inaugurated as San Francisco's 46th mayor, outlines vision for city

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Change in leadership has come to San Francisco as Daniel Lurie was sworn in as the city's new mayor on Wednesday.

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

Change in leadership is coming to San Francisco as Daniel Lurie is sworn in as the city's new mayor, with a historic Chinatown celebration to follow.

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 Coach Steve Kerr spoke at the swearing-in ceremony for new San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie on Wednesday.

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.

Preparations were underway in Chinatown for a historic inauguration day celebration. The festivities will include a night market, concert, and a unity banquet. Lurie will become the first mayor to mark their first day in office with a celebration in Chinatown.

The nonprofit BeChinatown will host a special night market, headlined by San Francisco native and Grammy-nominated EDM artist Zhu, along with DJ Ruckus.

Additionally, the historic Far East Café will transform to host a "unity dinner" organized by eight community groups. The number is not only auspicious, symbolizing good luck and fortune in the Chinese culture, but the event will welcome over 800 guests. Those expected to attend include Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Attorney General Rob Bonta.

Kevin Chan, owner of the Chinatown Fortune Cookie Factory, expressed optimism about the increased attention to the neighborhood.

"Me and the Chinese community have high hopes for him," Chan said.

However, Chan also noted lingering challenges, including cleanliness and safety issues in the area.

"I see a bunch of garbage everywhere every day," he said. "Tourists come by and see it-it's disgusting."

Chan hopes the new administration will bring meaningful change.

"All the politicians make promises," he said. "I hope it's not just a show."

MORE: San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie brings historic plans to Chinatown for inauguration day

San Francisco is gearing up for a historic moment as Daniel Lurie prepares to be sworn in as the city's 46th mayor on Wednesday.

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

San Francisco Mayor London Breed joined to ABC7 News at 3 p.m. for one last interview before she officially leaves 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."