Annie Gaus

The Department of Building Inspection (DBI) cultivated a culture of cronyism and corruption that festered for years ahead of the indictments of high-level department officials, according to a new report, enabling preferential treatment and “routine” conflicts of interest at the department.

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The Department of Building Inspection (DBI) cultivated a culture of cronyism and corruption that festered for years ahead of the indictments of high-level department officials, according to a new report, enabling preferential treatment and “routine” conflicts of interest at the department.

A report published on Thursday by the Controller’s Office found major flaws in DBI’s protocols for building permitting and inspections, including the absence of any system for monitoring “red flag” activities such as improper approvals of project plans or inspections that fell outside of an employee’s purview. Former DBI director Tom Hui further encouraged the abuses, the report said.&nbsp;

A report published on Thursday by the Controller’s Office found major flaws in DBI’s protocols for building permitting and inspections, including the absence of any system for monitoring “red flag” activities such as improper approvals of project plans or inspections that fell outside of an employee’s purview. Former DBI director Tom Hui further encouraged the abuses, the report said.&nbsp;

Those weaknesses, combined with a negative “tone at the top” during Hui’s tenure, led to several alleged instances of bribery and favoritism. As part of a local corruption probe last year, the City Attorney found that Hui abused his position to help his son and his son’s girlfriend obtain city jobs and accepted bribes from Walter Wong, a “permit expediter” who regularly worked with DBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those weaknesses, combined with a negative “tone at the top” during Hui’s tenure, led to several alleged instances of bribery and favoritism. As part of a local corruption probe last year, the City Attorney found that Hui abused his position to help his son and his son’s girlfriend obtain city jobs and accepted bribes from Walter Wong, a “permit expediter” who regularly worked with DBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We welcome this review and appreciate the Controller’s recommendations which we intend to fully implement as part of our larger, ongoing Reforms Initiative,” said Patrick O’Riordan, interim Director at DBI. Hui resigned last year following accusations that he took bribes in exchange for preferential treatment of Wong&#8217;s client, Li Zhang, developer of a mixed-use project at 555 Fulton Street.

“We welcome this review and appreciate the Controller’s recommendations which we intend to fully implement as part of our larger, ongoing Reforms Initiative,” said Patrick O’Riordan, interim Director at DBI. Hui resigned last year following accusations that he took bribes in exchange for preferential treatment of Wong's client, Li Zhang, developer of a mixed-use project at 555 Fulton Street.

“We welcome this review and appreciate the Controller’s recommendations which we intend to fully implement as part of our larger, ongoing Reforms Initiative,” said Patrick O’Riordan, interim Director at DBI. Hui resigned last year following accusations that he took bribes in exchange for preferential treatment of Wong&#8217;s client, Li Zhang, developer of a mixed-use project at 555 Fulton Street.

The Controller’s report noted that Hui, and possibly other DBI employees, had the ability to unilaterally assign specific staff—including themselves—to specific inspections, opening the door for preferential treatment and even bribery. DBI has more than 200 employees who issue permits and conduct inspections. The department conducted more than 118,000 inspections of building, electrical, plumbing and housing construction, and issued more than 50,000 permits last year. 

The Controller’s report noted that Hui, and possibly other DBI employees, had the ability to unilaterally assign specific staff—including themselves—to specific inspections, opening the door for preferential treatment and even bribery. DBI has more than 200 employees who issue permits and conduct inspections. The department conducted more than 118,000 inspections of building, electrical, plumbing and housing construction, and issued more than 50,000 permits last year.

Hui appears to have rationalized preferential treatment of Wong by labeling it “good customer service,” according to the report. The report also noted a friendship between Wong and former Mayor Ed Lee, who appointed Hui as head of DBI, that may have created pressure to give favorable treatment. Lee passed away in 2017.&nbsp;

Hui appears to have rationalized preferential treatment of Wong by labeling it “good customer service,” according to the report. The report also noted a friendship between Wong and former Mayor Ed Lee, who appointed Hui as head of DBI, that may have created pressure to give favorable treatment. Lee passed away in 2017.&nbsp;

Two other officials connected to DBI, Rodrigo Santos and Bernard Curran, were criminally charged with building permit fraud as part of a federal corruption probe in August. Santos, an engineer and former Building Inspection Commission president, was accused of stealing more than $400,000 from clients at his engineering firm. Curran, a former building inspector at DBI, was accused of giving favorable treatment to Santos’ clients in exchange for payments to favored nonprofits. 

Two other officials connected to DBI, Rodrigo Santos and Bernard Curran, were criminally charged with building permit fraud as part of a federal corruption probe in August. Santos, an engineer and former Building Inspection Commission president, was accused of stealing more than $400,000 from clients at his engineering firm. Curran, a former building inspector at DBI, was accused of giving favorable treatment to Santos’ clients in exchange for payments to favored nonprofits.

More recently, local policymakers have linked DBI’s practices to dangerous code violations.&nbsp;

More recently, local policymakers have linked DBI’s practices to dangerous code violations.&nbsp;

At one apartment complex at 2861-2899 San Bruno Ave., a developer was found to have illegally crammed 30 units into a building intended to have no more than 10. The building was rife with fire and safety violations, including an illegal and hazardous “temporary” scaffolding that remained in place for two years. That housing project was inspected and approved by Curran under the direction of Hui, O’Riordan testified at a Board of Supervisors hearing on Monday. 

At one apartment complex at 2861-2899 San Bruno Ave., a developer was found to have illegally crammed 30 units into a building intended to have no more than 10. The building was rife with fire and safety violations, including an illegal and hazardous “temporary” scaffolding that remained in place for two years. That housing project was inspected and approved by Curran under the direction of Hui, O’Riordan testified at a Board of Supervisors hearing on Monday.

“We at DBI have a long ways to go to earn the public’s trust,” O’Riordan told the Board of Supervisors Land Use &amp; Transportation Committee. “We have reforms in place, we have a lot of work to do, and this is going to take time.” O’Riordan said the department had begun auditing projects that may have been impacted by unethical practices.

“We at DBI have a long ways to go to earn the public’s trust,” O’Riordan told the Board of Supervisors Land Use &amp; Transportation Committee. “We have reforms in place, we have a lot of work to do, and this is going to take time.” O’Riordan said the department had begun auditing projects that may have been impacted by unethical practices.

Shortly after the report was published, Mayor London Breed issued an executive directive requiring DBI to prevent further misconduct.&nbsp;

Shortly after the report was published, Mayor London Breed issued an executive directive requiring DBI to prevent further misconduct.&nbsp;

“The Controller’s report issued today documents an unacceptable pattern of misconduct and systemic failures under the previous leadership of the Department of Building Inspection,” said Breed in a statement. “The people of San Francisco deserve better.”

“The Controller’s report issued today documents an unacceptable pattern of misconduct and systemic failures under the previous leadership of the Department of Building Inspection,” said Breed in a statement. “The people of San Francisco deserve better.”

The directive requires DBI to more regularly disclose conflicts of interest, make technical changes to its permitting and inspection processes, and to retain a third-party entity to weed out further fraud risks.&nbsp;

The directive requires DBI to more regularly disclose conflicts of interest, make technical changes to its permitting and inspection processes, and to retain a third-party entity to weed out further fraud risks.&nbsp;

The mayor’s directive was consistent with a number of recommendations issued by the Controller’s office as part of the report. Those recommendations included creating a strong compliance program, using data to monitor fraud risks, and better educating the public on proper and improper practices within the department.

The mayor’s directive was consistent with a number of recommendations issued by the Controller’s office as part of the report. Those recommendations included creating a strong compliance program, using data to monitor fraud risks, and better educating the public on proper and improper practices within the department.

‘Tone at the top’ led to fraud, bribes at Department of Building Inspection, report finds

A program often described as a “lifeline” for beleaguered San Francisco businesses, and one of few silver linings to emerge from the pandemic, was delayed by a Board of Supervisors committee pending further input.

A program often described as a “lifeline” for beleaguered San Francisco businesses, and one of few silver linings to emerge from the pandemic, was delayed by a Board of Supervisors committee pending further input.

At a meeting of the Board’s Land Use Committee on Monday, Supervisors punted a decision on whether to indefinitely extend <a href="https://sf.gov/shared-spaces">Shared Spaces</a>, a program that allows small businesses to expand onto sidewalks, parking spaces or other outdoor spots. In a unanimous decision, Supervisors Aaron Peskin, Myrna Melgar and Dean Preston voted to reassess the proposal in two weeks’ time.&nbsp;

At a meeting of the Board’s Land Use Committee on Monday, Supervisors punted a decision on whether to indefinitely extend <a href="https://sf.gov/shared-spaces">Shared Spaces</a>, a program that allows small businesses to expand onto sidewalks, parking spaces or other outdoor spots. In a unanimous decision, Supervisors Aaron Peskin, Myrna Melgar and Dean Preston voted to reassess the proposal in two weeks’ time.&nbsp;

“I think we have a lot of time to get this right,” said Peskin at the nearly five-hour hearing. At the same meeting, the Supervisors also delayed a vote on the Small Business Recovery Act, a proposal by Mayor London Breed to <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/mayor-breeds-small-business-recovery-act-survives-tight-vote-from-planning-commission/#:~:text=The%20Small%20Business%20Recovery%20Act%20builds%20off%20Proposition%20H%2C%20passed,from%20opening%20a%20storefront%20altogether.">simplify the permitting process</a> for new businesses.&nbsp;

“I think we have a lot of time to get this right,” said Peskin at the nearly five-hour hearing. At the same meeting, the Supervisors also delayed a vote on the Small Business Recovery Act, a proposal by Mayor London Breed to <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/mayor-breeds-small-business-recovery-act-survives-tight-vote-from-planning-commission/#:~:text=The%20Small%20Business%20Recovery%20Act%20builds%20off%20Proposition%20H%2C%20passed,from%20opening%20a%20storefront%20altogether.">simplify the permitting process</a> for new businesses.&nbsp;

The Shared Spaces legislation would make the program permanent, with applications and approvals jointly managed by the Planning Department, Department of Public Works, Municipal Transportation Agency, Fire Department and Entertainment Commission. Among other provisions, the program requires the creation of a “one-stop” portal whereby business owners can apply and receive approval within 30 days.&nbsp;

The Shared Spaces legislation would make the program permanent, with applications and approvals jointly managed by the Planning Department, Department of Public Works, Municipal Transportation Agency, Fire Department and Entertainment Commission. Among other provisions, the program requires the creation of a “one-stop” portal whereby business owners can apply and receive approval within 30 days.&nbsp;

The Shared Spaces program was introduced last year as an emergency measure for restaurants, and the outdoor dining areas have been embraced by many residents and proprietors. 2,500 businesses have applied for Shared Spaces permits, <a href="https://sfgov.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/b1e37820230a4017ae53d645a96c774b">according to SFMTA</a>, of which 1,900 have been approved so far.&nbsp;

The Shared Spaces program was introduced last year as an emergency measure for restaurants, and the outdoor dining areas have been embraced by many residents and proprietors. 2,500 businesses have applied for Shared Spaces permits, <a href="https://sfgov.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/b1e37820230a4017ae53d645a96c774b">according to SFMTA</a>, of which 1,900 have been approved so far.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Screen-Shot-2021-05-25-at-8.28.26-AM-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3835"/><figcaption>Photo by Joey Yee</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Screen-Shot-2021-05-25-at-8.28.26-AM-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3835"/><figcaption>Photo by Joey Yee</figcaption></figure>

In an <a href="https://sfcontroller.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Economic%20Analysis/210284_economic%20impact_final.pdf">economic impact report</a>, the San Francisco Controller’s Office determined that businesses with parklets grew their quarterly revenues by 29%, or $56,000 on average, compared to 10% revenue growth among similar businesses that did not install a parket. The assessment used parklets, a more limited outdoor dining program that has existed in the City for years, as an analog for Shared Spaces, and analyzed sales tax receipts for participating businesses.&nbsp;

In an <a href="https://sfcontroller.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Economic%20Analysis/210284_economic%20impact_final.pdf">economic impact report</a>, the San Francisco Controller’s Office determined that businesses with parklets grew their quarterly revenues by 29%, or $56,000 on average, compared to 10% revenue growth among similar businesses that did not install a parket. The assessment used parklets, a more limited outdoor dining program that has existed in the City for years, as an analog for Shared Spaces, and analyzed sales tax receipts for participating businesses.&nbsp;

“It does suggest a broader benefit to the city’s economy,” said Ted Egan, San Francisco’s chief economist.&nbsp;

“It does suggest a broader benefit to the city’s economy,” said Ted Egan, San Francisco’s chief economist.&nbsp;

Supervisor Peskin, who initially described himself as a “large proponent” of the Shared Spaces effort, voiced a number of concerns at Monday’s meeting, ranging from the timing of the economic impact report to the lack of granular information on the expected losses from metered parking spaces that may be sacrificed to the program.

Supervisor Peskin, who initially described himself as a “large proponent” of the Shared Spaces effort, voiced a number of concerns at Monday’s meeting, ranging from the timing of the economic impact report to the lack of granular information on the expected losses from metered parking spaces that may be sacrificed to the program.

SFMTA estimated that it could lose $10.6 million annually in parking meter revenue, though Director Jeffrey Tumlin <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/sfmta-director-says-shared-spaces-serves-transit-agencys-financial-interest/">argued in favor of Shared Spaces</a> at a meeting earlier this month. “Compensatory financial factors,” namely increased sales tax revenue, would make the program a boon for the agency, according to Tumlin.&nbsp;

SFMTA estimated that it could lose $10.6 million annually in parking meter revenue, though Director Jeffrey Tumlin <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/sfmta-director-says-shared-spaces-serves-transit-agencys-financial-interest/">argued in favor of Shared Spaces</a> at a meeting earlier this month. “Compensatory financial factors,” namely increased sales tax revenue, would make the program a boon for the agency, according to Tumlin.&nbsp;

During public comment, bar and restaurant owners urged the board to approve the indefinite extension without delay. Several described accruing hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt since last March, saying that they urgently need clarity on the status of Shared Spaces.&nbsp;

During public comment, bar and restaurant owners urged the board to approve the indefinite extension without delay. Several described accruing hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt since last March, saying that they urgently need clarity on the status of Shared Spaces.&nbsp;

“We cannot spend one more dollar until we know if our city supports this,” said Debbie Miller, owner of the Royal Cuckoo. “This delay is affecting a lot of our friends—servers, bartenders, musicians—who need work.”

“We cannot spend one more dollar until we know if our city supports this,” said Debbie Miller, owner of the Royal Cuckoo. “This delay is affecting a lot of our friends—servers, bartenders, musicians—who need work.”

Restaurant and bar closures accounted for tens of thousands of <a href="https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/03/12/covid-economy-job-cut-hefty-jolt-california-bay-area-hotel-retail-tech/">lost jobs in San Francisco</a> during the pandemic, and commercial tenants accrued $404 million in unpaid rent between April 2020 and December 2020, according to a <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/sf-business-tenants-owe-as-much-as-404m-in-unpaid-rent">recent analysis</a>. Retail businesses, chiefly bars and restaurants, accounted for as much as 98% of that unpaid rent.

Restaurant and bar closures accounted for tens of thousands of <a href="https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/03/12/covid-economy-job-cut-hefty-jolt-california-bay-area-hotel-retail-tech/">lost jobs in San Francisco</a> during the pandemic, and commercial tenants accrued $404 million in unpaid rent between April 2020 and December 2020, according to a <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/sf-business-tenants-owe-as-much-as-404m-in-unpaid-rent">recent analysis</a>. Retail businesses, chiefly bars and restaurants, accounted for as much as 98% of that unpaid rent.

“Shares Spaces has been critical for rehiring; for every 20 seats, that equates to hiring one or two employees,” said Laurie Thomas, executive director of the <a href="https://ggra.org/">Golden Gate Restaurant Association</a>. “Putting it off now will only discriminate against restaurants who have not been able to access the program yet.”&nbsp;

“Shares Spaces has been critical for rehiring; for every 20 seats, that equates to hiring one or two employees,” said Laurie Thomas, executive director of the <a href="https://ggra.org/">Golden Gate Restaurant Association</a>. “Putting it off now will only discriminate against restaurants who have not been able to access the program yet.”&nbsp;

Critics of the proposal included advocates for seniors and people with disabilities who remain wary of the limitations on sidewalk space. Opponents also voiced concerns about the privatization of public spaces.

Critics of the proposal included advocates for seniors and people with disabilities who remain wary of the limitations on sidewalk space. Opponents also voiced concerns about the privatization of public spaces.

“This city, and frankly all cities, have a history of making changes that help one group but hurt other groups,” said Cathy Deluca of <a href="https://sfcommunityliving.org/">Community Living Campaign</a>, an organization serving seniors and people with disabilities.&nbsp;

“This city, and frankly all cities, have a history of making changes that help one group but hurt other groups,” said Cathy Deluca of <a href="https://sfcommunityliving.org/">Community Living Campaign</a>, an organization serving seniors and people with disabilities.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Screen-Shot-2021-05-25-at-8.31.56-AM.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3852"/><figcaption>Photo by Joey Yee</figcaption></figure>

Green-lighting the program doesn’t preclude further changes should issues and complaints arise, according to proponents. The legislation, as written, gives the Department of Public Works authority to write additional regulations on maintenance, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other concerns.&nbsp;

Green-lighting the program doesn’t preclude further changes should issues and complaints arise, according to proponents. The legislation, as written, gives the Department of Public Works authority to write additional regulations on maintenance, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other concerns.&nbsp;

“We need to get out of our own way,” said Supervisor Ahsha Safai, who co-sponsored the legislation along with Mayor London Breed and Supervisors Rafael Mandelman,. Catherine Stefani, and Matt Haney.&nbsp;

“We need to get out of our own way,” said Supervisor Ahsha Safai, who co-sponsored the legislation along with Mayor London Breed and Supervisors Rafael Mandelman,. Catherine Stefani, and Matt Haney.&nbsp;

Voting to delay the measure, Peskin and Preston asked for further input on a number of topics such as the total number of expected Shared Spaces, their potential valuations and the merits of commercial Shared Spaces versus parklets that are deemed entirely public space.&nbsp;

Voting to delay the measure, Peskin and Preston asked for further input on a number of topics such as the total number of expected Shared Spaces, their potential valuations and the merits of commercial Shared Spaces versus parklets that are deemed entirely public space.&nbsp;

Both the Shared Spaces and Business Recovery Act legislation will be discussed again on June 7.

Both the Shared Spaces and Business Recovery Act legislation will be discussed again on June 7.

Supervisors punt votes on permanent Shared Spaces, small business recovery

For neighborhoods that deal with the Sisyphean task of keeping streets clean, the city’s existing customer service sometimes doesn’t cut it.&nbsp;

For neighborhoods that deal with the Sisyphean task of keeping streets clean, the city’s existing customer service sometimes doesn’t cut it.&nbsp;

For some of the most common complaints, such as loose trash, graffiti or feces, it can take hours or even days for a crew from the city&#8217;s Department of Public Works to resolve the issue. That’s partly due to redundancy and confusion between cleanup crews employed by the Department of Public Works and privately-funded community benefit districts, or CBDs, that work in high-traffic commercial corridors.

For some of the most common complaints, such as loose trash, graffiti or feces, it can take hours or even days for a crew from the city's Department of Public Works to resolve the issue. That’s partly due to redundancy and confusion between cleanup crews employed by the Department of Public Works and privately-funded community benefit districts, or CBDs, that work in high-traffic commercial corridors.

For some of the most common complaints, such as loose trash, graffiti or feces, it can take hours or even days for a crew from the city&#8217;s Department of Public Works to resolve the issue. That’s partly due to redundancy and confusion between cleanup crews employed by the Department of Public Works and privately-funded community benefit districts, or CBDs, that work in high-traffic commercial corridors.

The city is hoping that a technological fix will change that. An app called Connected Worker, which was introduced on a pilot basis last year, promises to dramatically improve response times for everyday cleanup while better integrating private CBDs into the city’s expansive 311 system.&nbsp;

The city is hoping that a technological fix will change that. An app called Connected Worker, which was introduced on a pilot basis last year, promises to dramatically improve response times for everyday cleanup while better integrating private CBDs into the city’s expansive 311 system.&nbsp;

“The benefit to the city and neighborhood is that the response time is significantly faster,” said Andrew Robinson, executive director of the East Cut CBD, which has 22 full-time staff working 24 hours a day. “We want to respond to those things, and make sure our data is also in the city’s system so the city can see what we’re doing.”&nbsp;

“The benefit to the city and neighborhood is that the response time is significantly faster,” said Andrew Robinson, executive director of the East Cut CBD, which has 22 full-time staff working 24 hours a day. “We want to respond to those things, and make sure our data is also in the city’s system so the city can see what we’re doing.”&nbsp;

The city’s 311 customer service system processes roughly 50,000 calls for service in a typical month. Requests for cleaning make up the lion’s share of those requests: In October, about 40% of all 311 requests were for street and sidewalk cleanup. The city’s 17 active CBDs, which serve limited geographic areas and are funded by local businesses and property owners, are often already at the scene and can respond to those requests much more quickly than city teams.

The city’s 311 customer service system processes roughly 50,000 calls for service in a typical month. Requests for cleaning make up the lion’s share of those requests: In October, about 40% of all 311 requests were for street and sidewalk cleanup. The city’s 17 active CBDs, which serve limited geographic areas and are funded by local businesses and property owners, are often already at the scene and can respond to those requests much more quickly than city teams.

Until recently, however, the CBDs and Public Works cleaning crews had no easy way to communicate. That meant that city crews would arrive at a cleanup scene only to find that it had already been handled by a private neighborhood crew, creating wasted time and effort across Public Works’ response system.&nbsp;

Until recently, however, the CBDs and Public Works cleaning crews had no easy way to communicate. That meant that city crews would arrive at a cleanup scene only to find that it had already been handled by a private neighborhood crew, creating wasted time and effort across Public Works’ response system.&nbsp;

“My hunch is that it would often mean the city wouldn’t send someone out as fast,” added Robinson. “[The app] has really improved communications.”&nbsp;

“My hunch is that it would often mean the city wouldn’t send someone out as fast,” added Robinson. “[The app] has really improved communications.”&nbsp;

The recent push is part of Shine On SF, a public-private initiative launched by Mayor London Breed to scrub down and beautify San Francisco neighborhoods. With a carve-out of about $92 million from this year’s budget, the initiative includes funding for dedicated cleanup along key commercial corridors, trash can replacements, and improvements to the 311 response system, among other efforts.&nbsp;

The recent push is part of Shine On SF, a public-private initiative launched by Mayor London Breed to scrub down and beautify San Francisco neighborhoods. With a carve-out of about $92 million from this year’s budget, the initiative includes funding for dedicated cleanup along key commercial corridors, trash can replacements, and improvements to the 311 response system, among other efforts.&nbsp;

“Sometimes things just aren&#8217;t run the best they could be,” Noaeh Pinaire, a laborer with Public Works who scrubs down Castro Street as part of the new beautification efforts, told Here/Say in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/heres-how-san-francisco-deep-cleans-its-streets/">a recent interview</a>. “In essence, [it’s] the allocation of resources&#8230;maybe people are getting put in areas that necessarily don&#8217;t need all that manpower. I think it&#8217;s just small things like that.”

“Sometimes things just aren't run the best they could be,” Noaeh Pinaire, a laborer with Public Works who scrubs down Castro Street as part of the new beautification efforts, told Here/Say in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/heres-how-san-francisco-deep-cleans-its-streets/">a recent interview</a>. “In essence, [it’s] the allocation of resources...maybe people are getting put in areas that necessarily don't need all that manpower. I think it's just small things like that.”

“Sometimes things just aren&#8217;t run the best they could be,” Noaeh Pinaire, a laborer with Public Works who scrubs down Castro Street as part of the new beautification efforts, told Here/Say in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/heres-how-san-francisco-deep-cleans-its-streets/">a recent interview</a>. “In essence, [it’s] the allocation of resources&#8230;maybe people are getting put in areas that necessarily don&#8217;t need all that manpower. I think it&#8217;s just small things like that.”

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The Mayor’s Office frames the cleanup efforts as part of a broader recovery, positing that cleaner and better cared-for streets will make San Francisco a more inviting place to visit as the city’s battered tourism sector crawls back from COVID.&nbsp;

The Mayor’s Office frames the cleanup efforts as part of a broader recovery, positing that cleaner and better cared-for streets will make San Francisco a more inviting place to visit as the city’s battered tourism sector crawls back from COVID.&nbsp;

Using general fund money, the city commissioned developer Connected Bits, which also built the external 311 app, to create an app for cleanup workers in the field. That allows CBD workers to address and resolve complaints within the city’s existing 311 infrastructure, freeing up more time for Public Works staff to respond to citywide complaints.&nbsp;

Using general fund money, the city commissioned developer Connected Bits, which also built the external 311 app, to create an app for cleanup workers in the field. That allows CBD workers to address and resolve complaints within the city’s existing 311 infrastructure, freeing up more time for Public Works staff to respond to citywide complaints.&nbsp;

The average resolution times using the app were significantly faster compared to comparable calls routed through 311: Loose trash cleanup took about 5 hours on average with the app, compared to 34 hours citywide, according to data provided by the city. Public graffiti cleanup took 4 hours, compared to 6 days. Neighborhood CBDs must opt in to the app, and six of the city’s 17 CBDs are participating right now.&nbsp;

The average resolution times using the app were significantly faster compared to comparable calls routed through 311: Loose trash cleanup took about 5 hours on average with the app, compared to 34 hours citywide, according to data provided by the city. Public graffiti cleanup took 4 hours, compared to 6 days. Neighborhood CBDs must opt in to the app, and six of the city’s 17 CBDs are participating right now.&nbsp;

Robinson said that the “long game” is to build a unified response system that includes all CBDs, and perhaps even other nonprofits that provide maintenance or safety services in San Francisco neighborhoods.&nbsp;

Robinson said that the “long game” is to build a unified response system that includes all CBDs, and perhaps even other nonprofits that provide maintenance or safety services in San Francisco neighborhoods.&nbsp;

“The sidewalks in front of your house or business&#8230;often have more intense use than anyone should ever be expected to take care of,” Robinson said. “Now I’m able to invest the money I’m putting into responding to calls into more work on the streets.”

“The sidewalks in front of your house or business...often have more intense use than anyone should ever be expected to take care of,” Robinson said. “Now I’m able to invest the money I’m putting into responding to calls into more work on the streets.”

“The sidewalks in front of your house or business&#8230;often have more intense use than anyone should ever be expected to take care of,” Robinson said. “Now I’m able to invest the money I’m putting into responding to calls into more work on the streets.”

To help streets sparkle, S.F. looks to revamped tech for cleanup crews

Mask mandates are officially back in San Francisco.&nbsp;

Mask mandates are officially back in San Francisco.&nbsp;

With limited exceptions, anyone in an indoor establishment will be required to wear a face covering regardless of vaccination status, according to a health order issued by eight Bay Area jurisdictions on Monday.&nbsp;

With limited exceptions, anyone in an indoor establishment will be required to wear a face covering regardless of vaccination status, according to a health order issued by eight Bay Area jurisdictions on Monday.&nbsp;

The order goes into effect on Tuesday, Aug. 3, and applies to all indoor public spaces in the counties of San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, Santa Clara and Sonoma, as well as the city of Berkeley.&nbsp;

The order goes into effect on Tuesday, Aug. 3, and applies to all indoor public spaces in the counties of San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, Santa Clara and Sonoma, as well as the city of Berkeley.&nbsp;

“Across the Bay Area region, we are seeing COVID cases surging, and hospitalizations are on a steep rise again especially among the unvaccinated,” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, public health officer for Contra Costa county, at a press conference on Monday.&nbsp;

“Across the Bay Area region, we are seeing COVID cases surging, and hospitalizations are on a steep rise again especially among the unvaccinated,” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, public health officer for Contra Costa county, at a press conference on Monday.&nbsp;

Officials for each Bay Area county reported that the vast majority of COVID-19 hospitalizations are among unvaccinated people, and described the masking order as a preventative measure to avoid stricter restrictions on activities.&nbsp;

Officials for each Bay Area county reported that the vast majority of COVID-19 hospitalizations are among unvaccinated people, and described the masking order as a preventative measure to avoid stricter restrictions on activities.&nbsp;

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The mask mandate wasn’t a surprise, and follows a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/your-questions-about-masking-in-sf-answered/">recommendation to mask up indoors</a> that was already in place in San Francisco and elsewhere. Indoor dining will still be permitted under the masking order, though patrons will be asked to wear a mask if not actively eating or drinking.&nbsp;

The mask mandate wasn’t a surprise, and follows a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/your-questions-about-masking-in-sf-answered/">recommendation to mask up indoors</a> that was already in place in San Francisco and elsewhere. Indoor dining will still be permitted under the masking order, though patrons will be asked to wear a mask if not actively eating or drinking.&nbsp;

Dr. Naveena Bobba, San Francisco’s Deputy Director of Health, said vaccinated people make up a very small fraction of hospitalizations in San Francisco. Vaccinated people who wound up in the hospital tended to be elderly and at high risk, Bay Area officials said. 

Dr. Naveena Bobba, San Francisco’s Deputy Director of Health, said vaccinated people make up a very small fraction of hospitalizations in San Francisco. Vaccinated people who wound up in the hospital tended to be elderly and at high risk, Bay Area officials said.

“Vaccinated people are still protected against the most severe outcomes; nonetheless, there is evidence that vaccinated people can still spread the virus to others,” said Dr. Sundari Mase, health officer for Sonoma county.&nbsp;

“Vaccinated people are still protected against the most severe outcomes; nonetheless, there is evidence that vaccinated people can still spread the virus to others,” said Dr. Sundari Mase, health officer for Sonoma county.&nbsp;

The Delta variant, which is believed to be about 60% more transmissible than the COVID-19 strain that drove last year’s fall and winter surges, now accounts for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/as-covid-evolves-so-does-san-franciscos-vaccination-strategy/">majority of new cases</a> in the Bay Area and the U.S.&nbsp;

The Delta variant, which is believed to be about 60% more transmissible than the COVID-19 strain that drove last year’s fall and winter surges, now accounts for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/as-covid-evolves-so-does-san-franciscos-vaccination-strategy/">majority of new cases</a> in the Bay Area and the U.S.&nbsp;

In San Francisco, 76% of all residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The remaining 24% of the population includes children under 12, and others who are either unable to receive a vaccine or have opted not to.&nbsp;

In San Francisco, 76% of all residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The remaining 24% of the population includes children under 12, and others who are either unable to receive a vaccine or have opted not to.&nbsp;

San Francisco health officials have emphasized consistently that vaccinations are critical to stamping out any further surge in cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;

San Francisco health officials have emphasized consistently that vaccinations are critical to stamping out any further surge in cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last week, Mayor London Breed said that her office is working with the City Attorney to devise a potential <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-is-looking-at-ways-to-mandate-vaccines-for-non-city-employees-says-mayor-breed/">broader vaccine mandate</a> beyond the city’s own workforce of roughly 37,000 employees. Breed did not elaborate on who that mandate could apply to, but said that “as soon as we have the details of what we are able to do, we will do them.”&nbsp;

Last week, Mayor London Breed said that her office is working with the City Attorney to devise a potential <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-is-looking-at-ways-to-mandate-vaccines-for-non-city-employees-says-mayor-breed/">broader vaccine mandate</a> beyond the city’s own workforce of roughly 37,000 employees. Breed did not elaborate on who that mandate could apply to, but said that “as soon as we have the details of what we are able to do, we will do them.”&nbsp;

Bobba said on Monday that the city isn’t planning any specific enforcement measures of the masking mandate, but praised the judgment and caution shown by most residents throughout the pandemic.&nbsp;

Bobba said on Monday that the city isn’t planning any specific enforcement measures of the masking mandate, but praised the judgment and caution shown by most residents throughout the pandemic.&nbsp;

“One of the things we know about the Bay Area [is that residents] tend to follow the science and data,” Bobba said.&nbsp;

“One of the things we know about the Bay Area [is that residents] tend to follow the science and data,” Bobba said.&nbsp;

Farnitano described the masking mandate as a temporary measure, and said that health officials are closely watching hospitalization rates in the hopes of avoiding a shortage in available beds that befell many cities across the U.S. last year.&nbsp;

Farnitano described the masking mandate as a temporary measure, and said that health officials are closely watching hospitalization rates in the hopes of avoiding a shortage in available beds that befell many cities across the U.S. last year.&nbsp;

He said that if hospitalizations drop to the low levels last observed in mid-June, counties may reevaluate masking mandates.&nbsp;

He said that if hospitalizations drop to the low levels last observed in mid-June, counties may reevaluate masking mandates.&nbsp;

“We know that vaccinated individuals, while they can get infected, most cases are mild or even asymptomatic. It’s the hospitalizations we’re really worried about,” Farnitano said. “Even if you survive a COVID hospitalization, I wouldn&#8217;t wish a hospitalization on anyone. It&#8217;s a terrible experience.”

“We know that vaccinated individuals, while they can get infected, most cases are mild or even asymptomatic. It’s the hospitalizations we’re really worried about,” Farnitano said. “Even if you survive a COVID hospitalization, I wouldn't wish a hospitalization on anyone. It's a terrible experience.”

“We know that vaccinated individuals, while they can get infected, most cases are mild or even asymptomatic. It’s the hospitalizations we’re really worried about,” Farnitano said. “Even if you survive a COVID hospitalization, I wouldn&#8217;t wish a hospitalization on anyone. It&#8217;s a terrible experience.”

San Francisco, Bay Area counties reinstate indoor mask mandates for all residents

The morning after a recent burglary spree in Union Square, Mayor London Breed zeroed in on the money<meta charset="utf-8">—not what was gained or lost by the thieves and their victims, but rather the impact of such incidents on San Francisco’s massive, yet over-stretched budget.&nbsp;

The morning after a recent burglary spree in Union Square, Mayor London Breed zeroed in on the money<meta charset="utf-8">—not what was gained or lost by the thieves and their victims, but rather the impact of such incidents on San Francisco’s massive, yet over-stretched budget.&nbsp;

&#8220;What happens when people vandalize and commit those level of crimes in San Francisco, we not only lose those businesses, we lose those jobs,” said Breed at a Nov. 20 press conference. “We lose that tax revenue that helps to support our economy that helps to support many of the social service programs that we have in the city in the first place. We can&#8217;t allow that to happen.”

"What happens when people vandalize and commit those level of crimes in San Francisco, we not only lose those businesses, we lose those jobs,” said Breed at a Nov. 20 press conference. “We lose that tax revenue that helps to support our economy that helps to support many of the social service programs that we have in the city in the first place. We can't allow that to happen.”

&#8220;What happens when people vandalize and commit those level of crimes in San Francisco, we not only lose those businesses, we lose those jobs,” said Breed at a Nov. 20 press conference. “We lose that tax revenue that helps to support our economy that helps to support many of the social service programs that we have in the city in the first place. We can&#8217;t allow that to happen.”

As the city crawls out of the pandemic, its roughly $13 billion annual budget hinges in part on the fate of downtown: how quickly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/indoor-mask-mandates-dampen-outlook-for-s-f-s-downtown/">workers return to offices</a>, how many merchants survive, and even sales tax revenue from holiday shoppers and tourists. Prior to the pandemic, Districts 3 and 6—which encompass downtown—generated more than half of the city’s sales tax revenue, along with an outsized portion of business and property taxes.

As the city crawls out of the pandemic, its roughly $13 billion annual budget hinges in part on the fate of downtown: how quickly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/indoor-mask-mandates-dampen-outlook-for-s-f-s-downtown/">workers return to offices</a>, how many merchants survive, and even sales tax revenue from holiday shoppers and tourists. Prior to the pandemic, Districts 3 and 6—which encompass downtown—generated more than half of the city’s sales tax revenue, along with an outsized portion of business and property taxes.

Bolstered by a roaring economy and tourism sector, San Francisco’s annual budget was on a steady upward climb for years, roughly doubling between 2011 and 2021. As the city’s economy boomed, businesses taxes nearly tripled between 2010 and 2020. Over the same period, flourishing tourism and conventions drove hotel and sales taxes past the billion-dollar mark; likewise, rising real estate values helped to push property tax collections, which are based on assessed values per year, to new heights.&nbsp;

Bolstered by a roaring economy and tourism sector, San Francisco’s annual budget was on a steady upward climb for years, roughly doubling between 2011 and 2021. As the city’s economy boomed, businesses taxes nearly tripled between 2010 and 2020. Over the same period, flourishing tourism and conventions drove hotel and sales taxes past the billion-dollar mark; likewise, rising real estate values helped to push property tax collections, which are based on assessed values per year, to new heights.&nbsp;

But COVID knocked much of that growth off track, and San Francisco&#8217;s economy has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">slower to recover</a> than other major cities, at least by some measures: In a report published last week, the city’s budget office noted that despite improvements in recent months, hotel occupancy, office visits and trips downtown remained drastically below pre-COVID levels in October. Small business formation remains flat, and convention bookings—typically a cash cow for the city—are very slow.

But COVID knocked much of that growth off track, and San Francisco's economy has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">slower to recover</a> than other major cities, at least by some measures: In a report published last week, the city’s budget office noted that despite improvements in recent months, hotel occupancy, office visits and trips downtown remained drastically below pre-COVID levels in October. Small business formation remains flat, and convention bookings—typically a cash cow for the city—are very slow.

But COVID knocked much of that growth off track, and San Francisco&#8217;s economy has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">slower to recover</a> than other major cities, at least by some measures: In a report published last week, the city’s budget office noted that despite improvements in recent months, hotel occupancy, office visits and trips downtown remained drastically below pre-COVID levels in October. Small business formation remains flat, and convention bookings—typically a cash cow for the city—are very slow.

During the pandemic, an infusion of federal and state funds helped to close the city’s budget gap<meta charset="utf-8">—but continuing economic malaise spells an uncertain future for San Francisco’s precariously balanced budget.&nbsp;

During the pandemic, an infusion of federal and state funds helped to close the city’s budget gap<meta charset="utf-8">—but continuing economic malaise spells an uncertain future for San Francisco’s precariously balanced budget.&nbsp;

Explore the visualization below to see how key revenue sources have changed over time.

Explore the visualization below to see how key revenue sources have changed over time.

As to where San Francisco’s money goes, tax and other revenues flow into a highly complex collection of funds—some of which are restricted to specific uses, and others that are discretionary.&nbsp;

As to where San Francisco’s money goes, tax and other revenues flow into a highly complex collection of funds—some of which are restricted to specific uses, and others that are discretionary.&nbsp;

Unlike most other U.S. cities, San Francisco is incorporated as both a city and county. That means it carries out both municipal functions, such as police and fire, and county-level functions, such as courts. San Francisco’s budget also includes so-called “enterprise” departments that generate their own revenues and function much like a business: San Francisco International Airport, Port of San Francisco, Municipal Transportation Agency, the Department of Public Health and the Public Utilities Commission. Service charges, primarily from those departments, make up the city’s single largest source of revenue. Those revenues are restricted, and largely flow back into enterprise funds to support those same departments.

Unlike most other U.S. cities, San Francisco is incorporated as both a city and county. That means it carries out both municipal functions, such as police and fire, and county-level functions, such as courts. San Francisco’s budget also includes so-called “enterprise” departments that generate their own revenues and function much like a business: San Francisco International Airport, Port of San Francisco, Municipal Transportation Agency, the Department of Public Health and the Public Utilities Commission. Service charges, primarily from those departments, make up the city’s single largest source of revenue. Those revenues are restricted, and largely flow back into enterprise funds to support those same departments.

Most of the city’s local tax revenue flows into the General Fund, which reflects discretionary spending that can be adjusted each year as part of the budget negotiation process. Some revenues, however, are restricted to special funds serving a specific purpose<meta charset="utf-8">—like debt repayment, capital projects, or parks and library maintenance<meta charset="utf-8">—that voters have approved over the years. Transfers are authorized flows of money in and out of funds that help balance the city’s budget.

Most of the city’s local tax revenue flows into the General Fund, which reflects discretionary spending that can be adjusted each year as part of the budget negotiation process. Some revenues, however, are restricted to special funds serving a specific purpose<meta charset="utf-8">—like debt repayment, capital projects, or parks and library maintenance<meta charset="utf-8">—that voters have approved over the years. Transfers are authorized flows of money in and out of funds that help balance the city’s budget.

San Francisco’s spending is categorized by use, from public protection and community health to arts and culture. <a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-sankey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to open the full interactive version</a> of the chart below to see the flow of San Francisco&#8217;s money flows through various funds and uses in the current budget cycle.

San Francisco’s spending is categorized by use, from public protection and community health to arts and culture. <a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-sankey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to open the full interactive version</a> of the chart below to see the flow of San Francisco's money flows through various funds and uses in the current budget cycle.

San Francisco’s spending is categorized by use, from public protection and community health to arts and culture. <a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-sankey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to open the full interactive version</a> of the chart below to see the flow of San Francisco&#8217;s money flows through various funds and uses in the current budget cycle.

San Francisco’s money is allocated across 53 departments and agencies with budgets as high as $2.7 billion (Department of Public Health) and as low as $1 million (Board of Appeals) for the fiscal year ending in June.

San Francisco’s money is allocated across 53 departments and agencies with budgets as high as $2.7 billion (Department of Public Health) and as low as $1 million (Board of Appeals) for the fiscal year ending in June.

Every year, the Mayor&#8217;s Office and the Controller&#8217;s Office review revenue forecasts for upcoming years and issue detailed guidance to city departments on the preparation of their budgets. Individual departments then submit their own budget plans to the Controller and the Mayor&#8217;s Office, which consolidates those budget requests into a balanced citywide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">budget proposal</a>.

Every year, the Mayor's Office and the Controller's Office review revenue forecasts for upcoming years and issue detailed guidance to city departments on the preparation of their budgets. Individual departments then submit their own budget plans to the Controller and the Mayor's Office, which consolidates those budget requests into a balanced citywide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">budget proposal</a>.

Every year, the Mayor&#8217;s Office and the Controller&#8217;s Office review revenue forecasts for upcoming years and issue detailed guidance to city departments on the preparation of their budgets. Individual departments then submit their own budget plans to the Controller and the Mayor&#8217;s Office, which consolidates those budget requests into a balanced citywide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">budget proposal</a>.

In June of each year, Supervisors hold a series of hearings with department heads, as well as with members of the public, in order to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-board-of-supervisors-kick-off-13-billion-budget-negotiations/">develop their own budget recommendations</a> and requests for their districts. The Board of Supervisors must approve a final budget by August 1, which then heads to the Mayor’s desk for final signature.&nbsp;

In June of each year, Supervisors hold a series of hearings with department heads, as well as with members of the public, in order to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-board-of-supervisors-kick-off-13-billion-budget-negotiations/">develop their own budget recommendations</a> and requests for their districts. The Board of Supervisors must approve a final budget by August 1, which then heads to the Mayor’s desk for final signature.&nbsp;

In 2020 and 2021, the federal government passed two stimulus bills that allotted hundreds of millions in relief funds to San Francisco and other local governments that saw their revenues evaporate. Those stimulus funds flowed into San Francisco’s general fund, and into individual departments that were either heavily impacted by pandemic, such as the Municipal Transit Agency, or were tasked with emergency response, such as the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, which received an infusion of state and federal monies for emergency shelter last fiscal year.&nbsp;

In 2020 and 2021, the federal government passed two stimulus bills that allotted hundreds of millions in relief funds to San Francisco and other local governments that saw their revenues evaporate. Those stimulus funds flowed into San Francisco’s general fund, and into individual departments that were either heavily impacted by pandemic, such as the Municipal Transit Agency, or were tasked with emergency response, such as the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, which received an infusion of state and federal monies for emergency shelter last fiscal year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-bubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the interactive bubble chart</a> shown below to see each department’s total budget for fiscal 2022, and how it compares to last year.

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-bubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the interactive bubble chart</a> shown below to see each department’s total budget for fiscal 2022, and how it compares to last year.

Department-level budgets are categorized by spending categories, fund source, and other details, and are codified in a document called the <a href="https://sfcontroller.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Budget/AAO%20FY2021-22%20%26%20FY2022-23%20-%20FINAL%2020210730.pdf">Annual Appropriation Ordinance</a> each year. That document is the final citywide budget signed by the Mayor in August.&nbsp;

Department-level budgets are categorized by spending categories, fund source, and other details, and are codified in a document called the <a href="https://sfcontroller.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Budget/AAO%20FY2021-22%20%26%20FY2022-23%20-%20FINAL%2020210730.pdf">Annual Appropriation Ordinance</a> each year. That document is the final citywide budget signed by the Mayor in August.&nbsp;

By a wide margin, the largest chunk of spending is compensation for the city’s workforce of roughly 35,000. Salaries and benefits typically make up the largest chunk of department-level spending. Depending on a department’s function, they might also allocate funds to areas like building improvements, capital projects, or grants to nonprofits. Departments also regularly hire other city departments for services like security, legal help, tax preparation, health care, or maintenance. The city’s budget analysts account for that activity through transfers, meaning those purchases are marked as revenue and adjusted later in the final budget preparation.&nbsp;

By a wide margin, the largest chunk of spending is compensation for the city’s workforce of roughly 35,000. Salaries and benefits typically make up the largest chunk of department-level spending. Depending on a department’s function, they might also allocate funds to areas like building improvements, capital projects, or grants to nonprofits. Departments also regularly hire other city departments for services like security, legal help, tax preparation, health care, or maintenance. The city’s budget analysts account for that activity through transfers, meaning those purchases are marked as revenue and adjusted later in the final budget preparation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-treemap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the visualization</a> below to see how much each department plans to spend this year, and what those funds are used for.

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-treemap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the visualization</a> below to see how much each department plans to spend this year, and what those funds are used for.

Visualizations by Elbert Wang &amp; Kaitlyn Bartley

Visualizations by Elbert Wang &amp; Kaitlyn Bartley

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