Former Riordan Aide to Serve on Homeless Board

Michael F. Keeley, a lawyer who quit as a top-level aide to Mayor Richard Riordan three years ago while under attack from the City Council, was confirmed Tuesday by the same council to serve on the city’s Homeless Services Authority.

Keeley resigned in 1996 after admitting he had leaked a confidential memo outlining the city’s legal strategy in a contract dispute to lawyers on the opposing side. Following news of the leak, the council voted 10 to 3 for a “no confidence” vote on Keeley, who was then chief operating officer.

But the panel put that matter behind them by confirming Keeley’s appointment with an 11-1 vote. Council members said they were willing to overlook their past brush with Keeley because of his fitness for the unpaid appointment. “You’re not going to find a more capable and compassionate person,” said Councilman Richard Alatorre.

The authority is a joint city and county commission that distributes public funds to nonprofit homeless service groups through competitive bidding.

Councilwoman Rita Walters cast the only vote against Keeley, saying “he is not capable of being a commissioner in any respect or in any regard.”