Annie Gaus

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

core/paragraph

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.”

core/embed

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/KeC-i9VOIaM
</div></figure>

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;

core/html

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

With a moratorium on commercial evictions set to expire, San Francisco plans to establish a relief fund intended to help stave off a wave of closures and settle hundreds of millions in outstanding rent debt.&nbsp;

With a moratorium on commercial evictions set to expire, San Francisco plans to establish a relief fund intended to help stave off a wave of closures and settle hundreds of millions in outstanding rent debt.&nbsp;

Combined with a forbearance period, the city hopes that the fund will save thousands of small businesses and jobs, said Supervisor Ahsha Safai at a hearing of the Board of Supervisors Budget and Finance committee on Wednesday. The three-person committee voted unanimously to advance the plan to the full board.&nbsp;

Combined with a forbearance period, the city hopes that the fund will save thousands of small businesses and jobs, said Supervisor Ahsha Safai at a hearing of the Board of Supervisors Budget and Finance committee on Wednesday. The three-person committee voted unanimously to advance the plan to the full board.&nbsp;

“This is an imminent crisis&#8230;with the scale of back rent exceeding the hundreds of millions, this is something we’re very concerned about,” said Safai. “It affects every single district and every single merchant corridor.”

“This is an imminent crisis...with the scale of back rent exceeding the hundreds of millions, this is something we’re very concerned about,” said Safai. “It affects every single district and every single merchant corridor.”

“This is an imminent crisis&#8230;with the scale of back rent exceeding the hundreds of millions, this is something we’re very concerned about,” said Safai. “It affects every single district and every single merchant corridor.”

If approved and signed by Mayor London Breed, a relief fund would be created to offer grants for commercial landlords. Safai proposed that the fund include $25 million—a fraction of the total back rent owed, according to estimates—though it&#8217;s not yet clear where the funding would come from.

If approved and signed by Mayor London Breed, a relief fund would be created to offer grants for commercial landlords. Safai proposed that the fund include $25 million—a fraction of the total back rent owed, according to estimates—though it's not yet clear where the funding would come from.

If approved and signed by Mayor London Breed, a relief fund would be created to offer grants for commercial landlords. Safai proposed that the fund include $25 million—a fraction of the total back rent owed, according to estimates—though it&#8217;s not yet clear where the funding would come from.

Those landlords would have to agree to apply the full grant to the balance of back rent, and to renegotiate the lease with their tenant and cut a deal for the remaining balance. The Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) would administer the grants, which will be capped at $35,000 each.&nbsp;

Those landlords would have to agree to apply the full grant to the balance of back rent, and to renegotiate the lease with their tenant and cut a deal for the remaining balance. The Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) would administer the grants, which will be capped at $35,000 each.&nbsp;

Many business owners said they’d accrued tens of thousands in back rent during pandemic-related shutdowns, or had landlords who were unwilling to negotiate rent reductions as their revenues withered.&nbsp;

Many business owners said they’d accrued tens of thousands in back rent during pandemic-related shutdowns, or had landlords who were unwilling to negotiate rent reductions as their revenues withered.&nbsp;

One speaker at Wednesday’s meeting, a stylist at House of Mahogany salon in the Ingleside district, said that the salon’s cooperative business model made it ineligible for federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans because it doesn’t pay out salaries.&nbsp;

One speaker at Wednesday’s meeting, a stylist at House of Mahogany salon in the Ingleside district, said that the salon’s cooperative business model made it ineligible for federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans because it doesn’t pay out salaries.&nbsp;

“I think we all know the federal financial relief, through the Paycheck Protection Program and Restaurant Revitalization Fund loans, fell far short of our need,” added Laurie Thomas, executive director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association. The Restaurant Revitalization Fund, approved by Congress in March, ran out of money in June and with a backlog of more than 177,000 applications.&nbsp;

“I think we all know the federal financial relief, through the Paycheck Protection Program and Restaurant Revitalization Fund loans, fell far short of our need,” added Laurie Thomas, executive director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association. The Restaurant Revitalization Fund, approved by Congress in March, ran out of money in June and with a backlog of more than 177,000 applications.&nbsp;

Others described an impossible situation: Crushing rent debts, coupled with a dramatic and continuing drop in revenue.

Others described an impossible situation: Crushing rent debts, coupled with a dramatic and continuing drop in revenue.

“Our rent is one of the highest in the country; we owe hundreds of thousands in back rent,” said Sterling Quan of Lee’s Deli, a small chain of eateries in the Financial District. “We have reopened and are doing not even 10% of pre-COVID sales. It’s impossible to make up 18 months of lost sales⁠—no one is coming in to eat twice a day.”&nbsp;

“Our rent is one of the highest in the country; we owe hundreds of thousands in back rent,” said Sterling Quan of Lee’s Deli, a small chain of eateries in the Financial District. “We have reopened and are doing not even 10% of pre-COVID sales. It’s impossible to make up 18 months of lost sales⁠—no one is coming in to eat twice a day.”&nbsp;

Commercial tenants, along with residential tenants, face a cliff at the end of this month.&nbsp;

Commercial tenants, along with residential tenants, face a cliff at the end of this month.&nbsp;

California’s eviction moratorium expires on Sept. 30, and while some<a href="https://sfstandard.com/policymakers-advocates-urge-tenants-to-seek-relief-ahead-of-sept-30-deadline/"> protections will stay in place</a>—renters cannot be evicted if they’ve paid at least 25% of back rent, for example—some policymakers are concerned that the looming deadline could bring a wave of evictions, both of individuals and businesses. San Francisco small businesses employed about 364,000 people prior to the pandemic according to OEWD.&nbsp;

California’s eviction moratorium expires on Sept. 30, and while some<a href="https://sfstandard.com/policymakers-advocates-urge-tenants-to-seek-relief-ahead-of-sept-30-deadline/"> protections will stay in place</a>—renters cannot be evicted if they’ve paid at least 25% of back rent, for example—some policymakers are concerned that the looming deadline could bring a wave of evictions, both of individuals and businesses. San Francisco small businesses employed about 364,000 people prior to the pandemic according to OEWD.&nbsp;

The eviction moratorium enacted at the federal level covered only residences, leaving states and local governments to write their own rules for commercial evictions. But further extensions to California&#8217;s residential and commercial eviction moratoriums appear “unlikely,” said Safai.&nbsp;

The eviction moratorium enacted at the federal level covered only residences, leaving states and local governments to write their own rules for commercial evictions. But further extensions to California's residential and commercial eviction moratoriums appear “unlikely,” said Safai.&nbsp;

The eviction moratorium enacted at the federal level covered only residences, leaving states and local governments to write their own rules for commercial evictions. But further extensions to California&#8217;s residential and commercial eviction moratoriums appear “unlikely,” said Safai.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the Board of Supervisors voted to enact a six-month forbearance period for businesses with between 50 and 99 employees, an expansion of existing provisions for smaller businesses.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the Board of Supervisors voted to enact a six-month forbearance period for businesses with between 50 and 99 employees, an expansion of existing provisions for smaller businesses.&nbsp;

In March, the city’s Budget &amp; Legislative analyst estimated that San Francisco businesses had accrued as much as $400 million in unpaid rent between March and December 2020. Restaurants and bars were particularly hard hit, with retail tenants accounting for as much as 98% of the total unpaid rent.&nbsp;

In March, the city’s Budget &amp; Legislative analyst estimated that San Francisco businesses had accrued as much as $400 million in unpaid rent between March and December 2020. Restaurants and bars were particularly hard hit, with retail tenants accounting for as much as 98% of the total unpaid rent.&nbsp;

‘Imminent crisis’: SF moves to create $25M fund to cover small businesses’ back rent

Sarah Wright

City officials are gearing up for a major battle over legislation that would allow multiple housing units on lots across the city—a hugely consequential change in local development rules that may well end up before voters next year.

City officials are gearing up for a major battle over legislation that would allow multiple housing units on lots across the city—a hugely consequential change in local development rules that may well end up before voters next year.

Faced with sky-high rents and a state mandate to build more units, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman kicked off the latest effort to stoke housing construction with a proposed zoning change that would allow fourplexes on all lots currently limited to single-family housing. Two fellow supervisors have weighed in with their own proposals to allow fourplexes, but only with extensive affordable housing requirements.&nbsp;

Faced with sky-high rents and a state mandate to build more units, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman kicked off the latest effort to stoke housing construction with a proposed zoning change that would allow fourplexes on all lots currently limited to single-family housing. Two fellow supervisors have weighed in with their own proposals to allow fourplexes, but only with extensive affordable housing requirements.&nbsp;

Now, with a green light in the form of unanimous approval from the city’s Planning Commission, Mandleman’s proposal is farthest along and will likely be taken up by the full Board of Supervisors in late January or early February. But if the proposals fail—or if the board approves a measure with too many restrictions—one pro-housing group says it plans to bring the question in front of voters in the form of a ballot measure.&nbsp;

Now, with a green light in the form of unanimous approval from the city’s Planning Commission, Mandleman’s proposal is farthest along and will likely be taken up by the full Board of Supervisors in late January or early February. But if the proposals fail—or if the board approves a measure with too many restrictions—one pro-housing group says it plans to bring the question in front of voters in the form of a ballot measure.&nbsp;

Corey Smith, deputy director of the Housing Action Coalition, said the organization is working now to write a ballot measure that would upzone all single-family housing to allow fourplexes and enshrine tenant protections. His group would encourage Mayor London Breed to use her power to put the question on the ballot sometime next year.&nbsp;

Corey Smith, deputy director of the Housing Action Coalition, said the organization is working now to write a ballot measure that would upzone all single-family housing to allow fourplexes and enshrine tenant protections. His group would encourage Mayor London Breed to use her power to put the question on the ballot sometime next year.&nbsp;

“If the Board of Supervisors doesn&#8217;t pass an economically feasible [ordinance] &#8230; we are going to be aggressive, and we will go to the ballot collecting signatures,” Smith said.&nbsp;

“If the Board of Supervisors doesn't pass an economically feasible [ordinance] ... we are going to be aggressive, and we will go to the ballot collecting signatures,” Smith said.&nbsp;

“If the Board of Supervisors doesn&#8217;t pass an economically feasible [ordinance] &#8230; we are going to be aggressive, and we will go to the ballot collecting signatures,” Smith said.&nbsp;

The Housing Action Coalition, a local advocacy group, supports Mandelman’s proposal, which, unlike the other two, does not include provisions guaranteeing that new units would have to be affordable. Mandelman introduced the two ordinances that would enact his proposal earlier this year, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/citywide-fourplex-ordinance-clears-planning-commission/">they were passed unanimously by the Planning Commission in mid-November</a>.&nbsp;

The Housing Action Coalition, a local advocacy group, supports Mandelman’s proposal, which, unlike the other two, does not include provisions guaranteeing that new units would have to be affordable. Mandelman introduced the two ordinances that would enact his proposal earlier this year, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/citywide-fourplex-ordinance-clears-planning-commission/">they were passed unanimously by the Planning Commission in mid-November</a>.&nbsp;

A provision in Mandelman’s proposal added by the city’s planning department would also allow up to six units on all residential corner lots. Paving the way for these ordinances are two new state laws, Senate Bills 9 and 10, which will go into effect in January of 2022. SB 10 allows proposals like Mandelman’s—or any that allow up to 10 units per residential lot—to pass without waiting for normal environmental review processes, while SB 9 allows all residential lots to be split, effectively doubling the housing potential on any given lot.&nbsp;

A provision in Mandelman’s proposal added by the city’s planning department would also allow up to six units on all residential corner lots. Paving the way for these ordinances are two new state laws, Senate Bills 9 and 10, which will go into effect in January of 2022. SB 10 allows proposals like Mandelman’s—or any that allow up to 10 units per residential lot—to pass without waiting for normal environmental review processes, while SB 9 allows all residential lots to be split, effectively doubling the housing potential on any given lot.&nbsp;

Paired with Mandelman’s ordinances, the laws would open up areas in the city like the Sunset District that were previously closed off to medium- or high-density housing. The ordinances will be reviewed by the board’s land use committee before going in front of the full board.

Paired with Mandelman’s ordinances, the laws would open up areas in the city like the Sunset District that were previously closed off to medium- or high-density housing. The ordinances will be reviewed by the board’s land use committee before going in front of the full board.

&#8220;It feels like we are approaching the home stretch,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;

"It feels like we are approaching the home stretch,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;

&#8220;It feels like we are approaching the home stretch,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;

But his colleagues on the board have other ideas about how to make housing more accessible for San Franciscans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

But his colleagues on the board have other ideas about how to make housing more accessible for San Franciscans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier this year, Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced his own proposal, which would allow fourplexes citywide so long as the newly built units provide a minimum of two bedrooms and are 100% affordable. His proposal would also institute rental rate caps and set limits on rent increases. Critics, including Smith, say those requirements will make it uneconomical for anyone to build additional units.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced his own proposal, which would allow fourplexes citywide so long as the newly built units provide a minimum of two bedrooms and are 100% affordable. His proposal would also institute rental rate caps and set limits on rent increases. Critics, including Smith, say those requirements will make it uneconomical for anyone to build additional units.&nbsp;

Supervisor Ahsha Safaí, meanwhile, introduced a proposal earlier the month that targets what he calls the “missing middle,” offering developers and owners streamlined project approval if they agree to build additional units on their lots and guarantee that half of them are affordable to anyone making 110% of the city’s median income as a renter, or 140% as an owner.&nbsp;

Supervisor Ahsha Safaí, meanwhile, introduced a proposal earlier the month that targets what he calls the “missing middle,” offering developers and owners streamlined project approval if they agree to build additional units on their lots and guarantee that half of them are affordable to anyone making 110% of the city’s median income as a renter, or 140% as an owner.&nbsp;

Mandelman said he will consider integrating rent control into his ordinances, but said it’s too much to ask small building owners to absorb the costs of the below-market-rate unit requirements included in Mar’s and Safaí’s proposals.

Mandelman said he will consider integrating rent control into his ordinances, but said it’s too much to ask small building owners to absorb the costs of the below-market-rate unit requirements included in Mar’s and Safaí’s proposals.

Dan Sider, chief of staff at the San Francisco Planning Department, said his staff is just starting to look at Mar’s and Safaí’s proposals and has yet to release any recommendations. But he said the planning department agrees that tacking on affordability restrictions to deeds would deter building, thus undermining the goal of creating more housing.

Dan Sider, chief of staff at the San Francisco Planning Department, said his staff is just starting to look at Mar’s and Safaí’s proposals and has yet to release any recommendations. But he said the planning department agrees that tacking on affordability restrictions to deeds would deter building, thus undermining the goal of creating more housing.

“If we ask too much on affordability and we get no units, that&#8217;s not a gain,” Sider said.&nbsp;

“If we ask too much on affordability and we get no units, that's not a gain,” Sider said.&nbsp;

“If we ask too much on affordability and we get no units, that&#8217;s not a gain,” Sider said.&nbsp;

Smith said deed-restricted, below-market-rate unit requirements like those in Mar’s and Safaí’s proposals are a “nonstarter.” He’s also worried about the capacity of the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development to manage an influx of new deed-restricted housing units.&nbsp;

Smith said deed-restricted, below-market-rate unit requirements like those in Mar’s and Safaí’s proposals are a “nonstarter.” He’s also worried about the capacity of the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development to manage an influx of new deed-restricted housing units.&nbsp;

“Every single person we&#8217;ve talked to that builds housing says putting deed-restrictions on housing &#8230; will be an economic disincentive to build housing,” Smith said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Every single person we've talked to that builds housing says putting deed-restrictions on housing ... will be an economic disincentive to build housing,” Smith said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Every single person we&#8217;ve talked to that builds housing says putting deed-restrictions on housing &#8230; will be an economic disincentive to build housing,” Smith said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In an email to the San Francisco Standard, Supervisor Matt Haney voiced his support for Mandelman’s legislation, of which he is a co-sponsor. No other supervisors responded to requests for comment for this story.&nbsp;

In an email to the San Francisco Standard, Supervisor Matt Haney voiced his support for Mandelman’s legislation, of which he is a co-sponsor. No other supervisors responded to requests for comment for this story.&nbsp;

In any case, Smith said his group isn’t waiting around. HAC has been collaborating with other pro-housing advocates on a ballot measure with language similar to Mandelman’s proposal should the ordinances fail at the Board of Supervisors, which he calls the most anti-housing board in the city’s history. 

In any case, Smith said his group isn’t waiting around. HAC has been collaborating with other pro-housing advocates on a ballot measure with language similar to Mandelman’s proposal should the ordinances fail at the Board of Supervisors, which he calls the most anti-housing board in the city’s history.

“Fourplexes are the next checkpoint in terms of increasing density,” Smith said. &#8220;We see this as a starting point.”

“Fourplexes are the next checkpoint in terms of increasing density,” Smith said. "We see this as a starting point.”

“Fourplexes are the next checkpoint in terms of increasing density,” Smith said. &#8220;We see this as a starting point.”

This version clarifies that the ballot measure is being written by advocates, including those at the Housing Action Coalition.

This version clarifies that the ballot measure is being written by advocates, including those at the Housing Action Coalition.

Fight for the fourplex: Supes weigh building on single-family lots, but voters may decide

San Francisco is expanding its testing capacity, and looking ahead to a booster shot program this fall, in the midst of a surge in COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

San Francisco is expanding its testing capacity, and looking ahead to a booster shot program this fall, in the midst of a surge in COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

Starting tomorrow, the city’s Department of Public Health (DPH) will open a high-volume, appointment-only testing site at 7th and Brannan Streets that can administer 500 tests per day, bringing its total testing capacity to 5,000 tests per day. In addition, officials in charge of San Francisco’s vaccination efforts are aiming to launch a booster shot initiative sometime this fall. 

Starting tomorrow, the city’s Department of Public Health (DPH) will open a high-volume, appointment-only testing site at 7th and Brannan Streets that can administer 500 tests per day, bringing its total testing capacity to 5,000 tests per day. In addition, officials in charge of San Francisco’s vaccination efforts are aiming to launch a booster shot initiative sometime this fall.

“Now that we’ve received the [CDC’s] formal written recommendations, the goal is to launch that program as soon as possible,” said Jonathan Sears, director of DPH’s vaccine unit. This week, the CDC <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/immuno.html">formally recommended</a> that immunocompromised people—such as those undergoing cancer treatment, or with HIV/AIDS—obtain an additional vaccine shot in light of a nationwide case surge.

“Now that we’ve received the [CDC’s] formal written recommendations, the goal is to launch that program as soon as possible,” said Jonathan Sears, director of DPH’s vaccine unit. This week, the CDC <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/immuno.html">formally recommended</a> that immunocompromised people—such as those undergoing cancer treatment, or with HIV/AIDS—obtain an additional vaccine shot in light of a nationwide case surge.

The CDC said it will offer booster shots starting on Sept. 20, and eight months after an individual&#8217;s second dose. That timing means that people who received vaccines early on, or in January 2021, would be eligible first.

The CDC said it will offer booster shots starting on Sept. 20, and eight months after an individual's second dose. That timing means that people who received vaccines early on, or in January 2021, would be eligible first.

The CDC said it will offer booster shots starting on Sept. 20, and eight months after an individual&#8217;s second dose. That timing means that people who received vaccines early on, or in January 2021, would be eligible first.

“We may be looking at early to late fall—less weeks, and more months at this time,” Sears added of a widespread booster shot offering in San Francisco. “Our goal is to maintain preparedness with the networks we have.” 

“We may be looking at early to late fall—less weeks, and more months at this time,” Sears added of a widespread booster shot offering in San Francisco. “Our goal is to maintain preparedness with the networks we have.”

Dr. Grant Colfax, San Francisco’s director of health, added that booster shot eligibility is expected to expand in the coming weeks, and that DPH will ramp up shots accordingly as new guidance emerges. Individuals in the immunocompromised group can make appointments for third shots with DPH or private providers now.

Dr. Grant Colfax, San Francisco’s director of health, added that booster shot eligibility is expected to expand in the coming weeks, and that DPH will ramp up shots accordingly as new guidance emerges. Individuals in the immunocompromised group can make appointments for third shots with DPH or private providers now.

Thanks to the Delta variant, which is believed to be about 50% more transmissible than the “Alpha” COVID-19 strain that dominated worldwide in 2020 through mid-2021, San Francisco saw an uptick in cases this summer despite a high vaccination rate.&nbsp;

Thanks to the Delta variant, which is believed to be about 50% more transmissible than the “Alpha” COVID-19 strain that dominated worldwide in 2020 through mid-2021, San Francisco saw an uptick in cases this summer despite a high vaccination rate.&nbsp;

The CDC confirmed this week that immunity to COVID-19 wanes over time, saying <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s0818-covid-19-booster-shots.html">in a statement</a> that &#8220;in association with the dominance of the Delta variant, we are starting to see evidence of reduced protection against mild and moderate disease.&#8221;&nbsp;

The CDC confirmed this week that immunity to COVID-19 wanes over time, saying <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s0818-covid-19-booster-shots.html">in a statement</a> that "in association with the dominance of the Delta variant, we are starting to see evidence of reduced protection against mild and moderate disease."&nbsp;

The CDC confirmed this week that immunity to COVID-19 wanes over time, saying <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s0818-covid-19-booster-shots.html">in a statement</a> that &#8220;in association with the dominance of the Delta variant, we are starting to see evidence of reduced protection against mild and moderate disease.&#8221;&nbsp;

In San Francisco, new cases and hospitalizations surged in July, though the city’s data show a drop-off in August. Colfax noted that the recent decrease is “consistent with the indoor masking mandate” imposed by the city <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-bay-area-counties-reinstate-indoor-mask-mandates-for-all-residents/">two weeks ago</a>. However, he cited fluctuating case counts in the United Kingdom—which, like San Francisco, boasts a high vaccination rate—as reason for caution.

In San Francisco, new cases and hospitalizations surged in July, though the city’s data show a drop-off in August. Colfax noted that the recent decrease is “consistent with the indoor masking mandate” imposed by the city <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-bay-area-counties-reinstate-indoor-mask-mandates-for-all-residents/">two weeks ago</a>. However, he cited fluctuating case counts in the United Kingdom—which, like San Francisco, boasts a high vaccination rate—as reason for caution.

“What starts to come down doesn’t always continue to come down—that’s what we saw in the U.K…We’re watching this very carefully to see whether we will have a similar situation,” said Colfax.

“What starts to come down doesn’t always continue to come down—that’s what we saw in the U.K…We’re watching this very carefully to see whether we will have a similar situation,” said Colfax.

As of Aug. 17, 85% of San Francisco residents aged 12 and older have received at least one vaccine shot, along with 93% of residents over age 65. A large majority of those hospitalized with COVID-19 in recent weeks are unvaccinated, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-bay-area-counties-reinstate-indoor-mask-mandates-for-all-residents/">according to public health officials</a>.

As of Aug. 17, 85% of San Francisco residents aged 12 and older have received at least one vaccine shot, along with 93% of residents over age 65. A large majority of those hospitalized with COVID-19 in recent weeks are unvaccinated, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-bay-area-counties-reinstate-indoor-mask-mandates-for-all-residents/">according to public health officials</a>.

The city is also stepping up efforts to get more people vaccinated, a “slow and steady” effort, according to Colfax.&nbsp;

The city is also stepping up efforts to get more people vaccinated, a “slow and steady” effort, according to Colfax.&nbsp;

About 570 people per day are receiving a vaccine dose currently, and DPH has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/as-covid-evolves-so-does-san-franciscos-vaccination-strategy/">transitioned away</a> from large vaccination sites towards a more localized approach, making vaccines available at neighborhood events, workplaces, food banks and other community sites. The department also launched mobile vaccination clinics focused on reaching homebound or disabled residents, unhoused people and other hard-to-reach populations.&nbsp;

About 570 people per day are receiving a vaccine dose currently, and DPH has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/as-covid-evolves-so-does-san-franciscos-vaccination-strategy/">transitioned away</a> from large vaccination sites towards a more localized approach, making vaccines available at neighborhood events, workplaces, food banks and other community sites. The department also launched mobile vaccination clinics focused on reaching homebound or disabled residents, unhoused people and other hard-to-reach populations.&nbsp;

Last week, Mayor London Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-to-mandate-vaccines-for-bar-restaurant-patrons-starting-august-20/">announced</a> that bars, restaurants and other “high-contact” indoor venues must verify that patrons have been fully vaccinated prior to entry. The order also applies to employees of those establishments, who must provide proof of vaccination to their employers by Oct. 13.&nbsp;

Last week, Mayor London Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-to-mandate-vaccines-for-bar-restaurant-patrons-starting-august-20/">announced</a> that bars, restaurants and other “high-contact” indoor venues must verify that patrons have been fully vaccinated prior to entry. The order also applies to employees of those establishments, who must provide proof of vaccination to their employers by Oct. 13.&nbsp;

Breed and Colfax hope that the new mandate incentivizes more people to get vaccinated.&nbsp;

Breed and Colfax hope that the new mandate incentivizes more people to get vaccinated.&nbsp;

“We very much hope that the incentive of eating at your favorite restaurant in San Francisco, or grabbing a drink, will remove any barriers you may have to getting vaccinated,” said Colfax on Aug. 12.

“We very much hope that the incentive of eating at your favorite restaurant in San Francisco, or grabbing a drink, will remove any barriers you may have to getting vaccinated,” said Colfax on Aug. 12.

San Francisco plans booster shots, ramps up testing amid Covid-19 case uptick

What went wrong for 49ers in 2024 — and how they can fix it in 2025

For all the things that went wrong for the 49ers in 2024, their rookie draft class was not one of them. Building around those players and Brock Purdy can help speed up the 2025 retool.

Brooke Jenkins on public safety and Democrats’ next steps

Following national election losses, the Democratic Party is searching for answers on how to win back voters. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, a tough-on-crime Democrat, won resoundingly in her first full-term bid. She joins The Standard’s Han Li and Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez to discuss how Democrats should change course, her strategies to enhance public safety, and more.

The future of San Francisco's Mid-Market neighborhood

Join The Standard's Jillian D'Onfro and Kevin V. Nguyen as they discuss the evolution of one of San Francisco's hardest-hit neighborhoods with Simon Bertrang, executive director of SF New Deal; Jeannie Kim, CEO of Bridge Hospitality Management Group; and Randy Shaw, executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic. They'll be broadcasting live from the historic Hibernia building and will be taking your questions!

Search Results for: london breed

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

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

‘Imminent crisis’: SF moves to create $25M fund to cover small businesses’ back rent

Fight for the fourplex: Supes weigh building on single-family lots, but voters may decide

San Francisco plans booster shots, ramps up testing amid Covid-19 case uptick