Josh Koehn

David Sjostedt

A subversive and heavily bankrolled ad campaign meant to shame City Hall officials into budgeting more money to confront San Francisco’s fentanyl <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/can-chp-help-tackle-san-franciscos-drug-crisis-calls-grow-for-state-police-intervention/">drug crisis</a> rolled out onto the streets Tuesday.

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<p>A subversive and heavily bankrolled ad campaign meant to shame City Hall officials into budgeting more money to confront San Francisco’s fentanyl <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/can-chp-help-tackle-san-franciscos-drug-crisis-calls-grow-for-state-police-intervention/">drug crisis</a> rolled out onto the streets Tuesday.</p>

The ad campaign—titled “That’s Fentalife!”—is the brainchild of TogetherSF Action, a political group in the city that intends to drop as much as a half-million dollars over the next six weeks to sway Mayor London Breed and city supervisors as they hammer out the city’s budget ahead of the next fiscal year starting July 1.&nbsp;

<p>The ad campaign—titled “That’s Fentalife!”—is the brainchild of TogetherSF Action, a political group in the city that intends to drop as much as a half-million dollars over the next six weeks to sway Mayor London Breed and city supervisors as they hammer out the city’s budget ahead of the next fiscal year starting July 1.&nbsp;</p>

The slogan and coloring of the ads have a pop aesthetic contrasted with aggressive language about people dying on city streets from overdoses and City Hall officials prioritizing drug dealers over children. The ads include a QR code that links to a list of the <a href="https://tsfaction.org/fentalife">organization’s budget demands</a>.

<p>The slogan and coloring of the ads have a pop aesthetic contrasted with aggressive language about people dying on city streets from overdoses and City Hall officials prioritizing drug dealers over children. The ads include a QR code that links to a list of the <a href="https://tsfaction.org/fentalife">organization’s budget demands</a>.</p>

An area known as 'Fentanyl Alley' features multiple ads by the group TogetherSF Action to draw attention to the city's drug crisis. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1875" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0329-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160849"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An area known as &#8216;Fentanyl Alley&#8217; on Myrtle Street in San Francisco on May 15, 2023, features multiple ads by the group TogetherSF Action to draw attention to the city&#8217;s drug crisis. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0329-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160849"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An area known as 'Fentanyl Alley' on Myrtle Street in San Francisco on May 15, 2023, features multiple ads by the group TogetherSF Action to draw attention to the city's drug crisis. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0329-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160849"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An area known as &#8216;Fentanyl Alley&#8217; on Myrtle Street in San Francisco on May 15, 2023, features multiple ads by the group TogetherSF Action to draw attention to the city&#8217;s drug crisis. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

“For a long time, we’ve all been afraid to talk about what&#8217;s really happening, because we don’t want to place blame or upset people who are doing really good work, or there’s always a risk of making the city look bad,” said Kanishka Cheng, co-founder and CEO of TogetherSF Action. “I think those fears are things we can&#8217;t be afraid of anymore, given the urgent and desperate nature of the crisis.”

<p>“For a long time, we’ve all been afraid to talk about what's really happening, because we don’t want to place blame or upset people who are doing really good work, or there’s always a risk of making the city look bad,” said Kanishka Cheng, co-founder and CEO of TogetherSF Action. “I think those fears are things we can't be afraid of anymore, given the urgent and desperate nature of the crisis.”</p>

<p>“For a long time, we’ve all been afraid to talk about what&#8217;s really happening, because we don’t want to place blame or upset people who are doing really good work, or there’s always a risk of making the city look bad,” said Kanishka Cheng, co-founder and CEO of TogetherSF Action. “I think those fears are things we can&#8217;t be afraid of anymore, given the urgent and desperate nature of the crisis.”</p>

The ads were designed to inspire outrage and action. But it’s too early to know if they will succeed or backfire. By mid-day Tuesday, some of the ads already appeared to have been defaced.&nbsp;

<p>The ads were designed to inspire outrage and action. But it’s too early to know if they will succeed or backfire. By mid-day Tuesday, some of the ads already appeared to have been defaced.&nbsp;</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wow. Someone didn’t like the message. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThatsFentalife?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThatsFentalife</a> <a href="https://t.co/tkdTsJ2S1N">pic.twitter.com/tkdTsJ2S1N</a></p>&mdash; Max Young is&#8230; (@maxyoung) <a href="https://twitter.com/maxyoung/status/1658571857040396288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Until last fall, San Francisco police deprioritized <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/da-jenkins-unveils-new-policy-to-steer-drug-users-into-treatment/">drug possession charges</a> as health officials emphasized harm reduction policies to deal with the drug crisis on its streets. In 2021, the city signed off on a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/supervisors-approve-6-5m-increase-to-harm-reduction-contract-but-raise-questions-on-outcomes/">$6.5 million budget amendment</a> to continue giving people clean needles and smoking supplies to curb the spread of disease while also flooding the streets with Narcan, an overdose reversal medication.

<p>Until last fall, San Francisco police deprioritized <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/da-jenkins-unveils-new-policy-to-steer-drug-users-into-treatment/">drug possession charges</a> as health officials emphasized harm reduction policies to deal with the drug crisis on its streets. In 2021, the city signed off on a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/supervisors-approve-6-5m-increase-to-harm-reduction-contract-but-raise-questions-on-outcomes/">$6.5 million budget amendment</a> to continue giving people clean needles and smoking supplies to curb the spread of disease while also flooding the streets with Narcan, an overdose reversal medication. </p>

The goal of these efforts is to reduce negative health outcomes that often accompany prolonged drug use.

<p>The goal of these efforts is to reduce negative health outcomes that often accompany prolonged drug use.</p>

However, TogetherSF Action and other critics of this approach contend that the city has essentially legalized open-air drug markets through a lack of police enforcement while neglecting to build abstinence-focused programs that could rescue people from addiction. Drug overdoses claimed the lives of 1,908 people from 2020 through 2022, and more than 200 people have died from drug overdoses this year.

<p>However, TogetherSF Action and other critics of this approach contend that the city has essentially legalized open-air drug markets through a lack of police enforcement while neglecting to build abstinence-focused programs that could rescue people from addiction. Drug overdoses claimed the lives of 1,908 people from 2020 through 2022, and more than 200 people have died from drug overdoses this year.</p>

The immediate reaction to “That’s Fentalife!” ads on San Francisco streets and at City Hall seemed to hover between confusion and passive acceptance to cringe and eye rolls.

<p>The immediate reaction to “That’s Fentalife!” ads on San Francisco streets and at City Hall seemed to hover between confusion and passive acceptance to cringe and eye rolls.</p>

Two people gather in front of a new ad fro the 'That's Fentalife!' campaign on Myrtle Street in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1875" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0389-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160834"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A street vendor and another person gather in front of a new ad for the &#8216;That&#8217;s Fentalife!&#8217; campaign on Myrtle Street in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0389-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160834"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A street vendor and another person gather in front of a new ad for the 'That's Fentalife!' campaign on Myrtle Street in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0389-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160834"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A street vendor and another person gather in front of a new ad for the &#8216;That&#8217;s Fentalife!&#8217; campaign on Myrtle Street in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Multiple ads were placed along a wall on Myrtle Street in the Tenderloin neighborhood—a location known to locals as “Fentanyl Alley”—and one of the displays reads, “Drug dealers now have more rights than our kids.”&nbsp;

<p>Multiple ads were placed along a wall on Myrtle Street in the Tenderloin neighborhood—a location known to locals as “Fentanyl Alley”—and one of the displays reads, “Drug dealers now have more rights than our kids.”&nbsp;</p>

A few people who were hanging out nearby said they supported the ads while others thought it was an advertisement for Narcan. A man who was passing and refused to give his name said he feels the ad campaign is making fun of the drug crisis.

<p>A few people who were hanging out nearby said they supported the ads while others thought it was an advertisement for Narcan. A man who was passing and refused to give his name said he feels the ad campaign is making fun of the drug crisis.</p>

“I know it’s trying to help, but it&#8217;s making light of the situation,” he said.

<p>“I know it’s trying to help, but it's making light of the situation,” he said.</p>

<p>“I know it’s trying to help, but it&#8217;s making light of the situation,” he said.</p>

Another man, who gave his name as Lyle N., said the ads will at least start a conversation.&nbsp;

<p>Another man, who gave his name as Lyle N., said the ads will at least start a conversation.&nbsp;</p>

“Kids are going to learn how to spell fentanyl now,” he said. “Some people might find that offensive, but it’s in the eye of the beholder.”

<p>“Kids are going to learn how to spell fentanyl now,” he said. “Some people might find that offensive, but it’s in the eye of the beholder.”</p>

An ad featuring a young girl in the 'That's Fentalife!' campaign suggests drug dealers' rights are being prioritized over children. The ad is one many that went up around the city on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1972" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0322-2500x1972.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160852"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An ad featuring a young girl in the &#8216;That&#8217;s Fentalife!&#8217; campaign suggests drug dealers&#8217; rights are being prioritized over children. The ad is one of many that went up around the city on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0322-2500x1972.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160852"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An ad featuring a young girl in the 'That's Fentalife!' campaign suggests drug dealers' rights are being prioritized over children. The ad is one of many that went up around the city on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0322-2500x1972.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160852"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An ad featuring a young girl in the &#8216;That&#8217;s Fentalife!&#8217; campaign suggests drug dealers&#8217; rights are being prioritized over children. The ad is one of many that went up around the city on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Connie Chan, the city supervisor who chairs San Francisco’s budget committee, dismissed the ads as a stunt that takes away from the important work while the city is dealing with a <a href="https://sf.gov/sites/default/files/2023-05/FY22-23%20Nine%20Month%20Report_Final.pdf">$743.5 million deficit</a>.

<p>Connie Chan, the city supervisor who chairs San Francisco’s budget committee, dismissed the ads as a stunt that takes away from the important work while the city is dealing with a <a href="https://sf.gov/sites/default/files/2023-05/FY22-23%20Nine%20Month%20Report_Final.pdf">$743.5 million deficit</a>.</p>

“These ads do not deliver real results on what we&#8217;re looking for: tackling the fentanyl crisis,” Chan said. “They only stir up fear and anxiety.”

<p>“These ads do not deliver real results on what we're looking for: tackling the fentanyl crisis,” Chan said. “They only stir up fear and anxiety.”</p>

<p>“These ads do not deliver real results on what we&#8217;re looking for: tackling the fentanyl crisis,” Chan said. “They only stir up fear and anxiety.”</p>

Supervisor Dean Preston called the ad campaign “gross” in a tweet Tuesday evening.

<p>Supervisor Dean Preston called the ad campaign “gross” in a tweet Tuesday evening.</p>

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https://twitter.com/DeanPreston/status/1658635392428507136
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Mayor London Breed, whose policies have received support from TogetherSF Action in the past, was not immune from criticism in the ads, which cite all City Hall officials as the problem.

<p>Mayor London Breed, whose policies have received support from TogetherSF Action in the past, was not immune from criticism in the ads, which cite all City Hall officials as the problem.</p>

“We don&#8217;t really make a distinction,” Cheng said, “because there isn’t consensus around the truth of the issue and what the solutions are.”

<p>“We don't really make a distinction,” Cheng said, “because there isn’t consensus around the truth of the issue and what the solutions are.”</p>

<p>“We don&#8217;t really make a distinction,” Cheng said, “because there isn’t consensus around the truth of the issue and what the solutions are.”</p>

San Francisco Mayor London Breed (right) and Chief of Police Bill Scott (left) at a press conference on Oct. 5, 2022. | Don Feria for The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/INLINED1_0302ChanPoliceTax-2500x1668.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-133873"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Mayor London Breed (right) and Chief of Police Bill Scott (left) at a press conference on Oct. 5, 2022. | Don Feria for The Standard</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/INLINED1_0302ChanPoliceTax-2500x1668.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-133873"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Mayor London Breed (right) and Chief of Police Bill Scott (left) at a press conference on Oct. 5, 2022. | Don Feria for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

TogetherSF Action informed Breed of the ads before releasing them, said Cheng, who previously worked in the Mayor&#8217;s Office.&nbsp;

<p>TogetherSF Action informed Breed of the ads before releasing them, said Cheng, who previously worked in the Mayor's Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TogetherSF Action informed Breed of the ads before releasing them, said Cheng, who previously worked in the Mayor&#8217;s Office.&nbsp;</p>

Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for the mayor, said some of the group’s requests, which include more policing of street drug dealing and funding for abstinence-based programs, could be part of her revised budget expected in two weeks.

<p>Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for the mayor, said some of the group’s requests, which include more policing of street drug dealing and funding for abstinence-based programs, could be part of her revised budget expected in two weeks.</p>

“​​The underlying asks are generally in line with what the mayor has already been pursuing to increase police staffing, disrupt open-air drug markets, add more treatment beds, and increase street outreach,” Cretan said in a text message. “These will be a key focus in her upcoming budget.”

<p>“​​The underlying asks are generally in line with what the mayor has already been pursuing to increase police staffing, disrupt open-air drug markets, add more treatment beds, and increase street outreach,” Cretan said in a text message. “These will be a key focus in her upcoming budget.”</p>

Del Seymour, who is known to many as the unofficial mayor of the Tenderloin, was listed as a supporter of the ad campaign in a TogetherSF Action press release. Seymour told The Standard that he first met with the organization Monday and many of the group’s ads don’t sit right with him.

<p>Del Seymour, who is known to many as the unofficial mayor of the Tenderloin, was listed as a supporter of the ad campaign in a TogetherSF Action press release. Seymour told The Standard that he first met with the organization Monday and many of the group’s ads don’t sit right with him.</p>

“I agreed to be part of the team because I wanted to be like a mole,” Seymour said. “You can’t change something if you’re not sitting at the table.”

<p>“I agreed to be part of the team because I wanted to be like a mole,” Seymour said. “You can’t change something if you’re not sitting at the table.”</p>

In particular, Seymour disagrees with the organization’s stance that a stronger police presence is needed in the Tenderloin. The city is now <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/gavin-newsom-tells-sfpd-to-work-with-national-guard-chp-against-drug-crisis/">working with California Highway Patrol and the National Guard</a> to disrupt drug trafficking operations in Downtown.

<p>In particular, Seymour disagrees with the organization’s stance that a stronger police presence is needed in the Tenderloin. The city is now <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/gavin-newsom-tells-sfpd-to-work-with-national-guard-chp-against-drug-crisis/">working with California Highway Patrol and the National Guard</a> to disrupt drug trafficking operations in Downtown.</p>

“I’ve confronted them about that,” Seymour said. “I’m not with that.”

<p>“I’ve confronted them about that,” Seymour said. “I’m not with that.”</p>

A group gathers in front of a 'That's Fentalife' ad in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1875" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0356-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160840"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A group gathers in front of a &#8216;That&#8217;s Fentalife&#8217; ad in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0356-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160840"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A group gathers in front of a 'That's Fentalife' ad in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DJI_0356-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-160840"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A group gathers in front of a &#8216;That&#8217;s Fentalife&#8217; ad in San Francisco on May 15, 2023. | Jesse Rogala/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Cheng said her group and others are simply fed up with the way San Francisco is “normalizing” the drug crisis, and all city officials—including Breed—should be on notice.

<p>Cheng said her group and others are simply fed up with the way San Francisco is “normalizing” the drug crisis, and all city officials—including Breed—should be on notice.</p>

“I think this effort is designed to draw attention to everybody in City Hall, to tell them that this is the most important thing in San Francisco right now,” Cheng said. “I think voters will remember if they don’t solve this problem when they&#8217;re on the ballot next. We&#8217;ll certainly remind people.”

<p>“I think this effort is designed to draw attention to everybody in City Hall, to tell them that this is the most important thing in San Francisco right now,” Cheng said. “I think voters will remember if they don’t solve this problem when they're on the ballot next. We'll certainly remind people.”</p>

<p>“I think this effort is designed to draw attention to everybody in City Hall, to tell them that this is the most important thing in San Francisco right now,” Cheng said. “I think voters will remember if they don’t solve this problem when they&#8217;re on the ballot next. We&#8217;ll certainly remind people.”</p>

<em>Editor’s note: Michael Moritz, a general partner at Sequoia Capital who finances The Standard, has provided funding to the 501c3 nonprofit TogetherSF and its political arm, TogetherSF Action. He is not involved in editorial decisions at The Standard.</em>

<p><em>Editor’s note: Michael Moritz, a general partner at Sequoia Capital who finances The Standard, has provided funding to the 501c3 nonprofit TogetherSF and its political arm, TogetherSF Action. He is not involved in editorial decisions at The Standard.</em></p>

Watch: San Franciscans react to snarky anti-fentanyl ads attempting to shame City Hall

Kevin V. Nguyen

In San Francisco, even affordable housing can be unaffordable to those who most need it. Of the 66,000 extremely low-income households in the city, the Department of Disability and Aging Services estimates that roughly 80% spend more than a third of their income on rent.&nbsp;

<p>In San Francisco, even affordable housing can be unaffordable to those who most need it. Of the 66,000 extremely low-income households in the city, the Department of Disability and Aging Services estimates that roughly 80% spend more than a third of their income on rent.&nbsp;</p>

To reduce that burden, voters approved Proposition G, which creates a program paid for by the city&#8217;s general fund that would help cover the difference between what qualified residents can afford to pay in rent and what is charged by their landlords.

<p>To reduce that burden, voters approved Proposition G, which creates a program paid for by the city's general fund that would help cover the difference between what qualified residents can afford to pay in rent and what is charged by their landlords.</p>

<p>To reduce that burden, voters approved Proposition G, which creates a program paid for by the city&#8217;s general fund that would help cover the difference between what qualified residents can afford to pay in rent and what is charged by their landlords.</p>

Measure G: Subsidize housing for extremely low-income residents

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The fund would only be available to extremely low-income households earning up to 35% of the area median income ($36,700 for a single person) and would be managed by the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development. Eligible disabled residents only have to earn up to 25% of area median income to qualify.&nbsp;

<p>The fund would only be available to extremely low-income households earning up to 35% of the area median income ($36,700 for a single person) and would be managed by the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development. Eligible disabled residents only have to earn up to 25% of area median income to qualify.&nbsp;</p>

According to the City Controller’s Office, the fund would receive between $161 million and $222 million over 20 years and would subsidize roughly 550 to 600 units in the city.&nbsp;The fund can also draw from other revenue streams such as special taxes.

<p>According to the City Controller’s Office, the fund would receive between $161 million and $222 million over 20 years and would subsidize roughly 550 to 600 units in the city.&nbsp;The fund can also draw from other revenue streams such as special taxes.</p>

“Given the lack of viable alternatives, cities and other local government agencies are the final bulwarks in the fight to end homelessness,” the San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association wrote in its endorsement, which also criticized federal and state governments for reducing funding for housing and social services.&nbsp;

<p>“Given the lack of viable alternatives, cities and other local government agencies are the final bulwarks in the fight to end homelessness,” the San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association wrote in its endorsement, which also criticized federal and state governments for reducing funding for housing and social services.&nbsp;</p>

Supporters of the new fund included the Council of Community Housing Organizations, Bayview Senior Services, Compass Family Services, Community Youth Center of San Francisco, Mission Housing, and the San Francisco Tenants Union.&nbsp;

<p>Supporters of the new fund included the Council of Community Housing Organizations, Bayview Senior Services, Compass Family Services, Community Youth Center of San Francisco, Mission Housing, and the San Francisco Tenants Union.&nbsp;</p>

Breed to sign rent control expansion bill, but its fate depends on the state ballot

sf-standard/related-post

SF doesn’t need more rent control, says mayoral candidate

New law would expand San Francisco rent control, but there’s a big catch

sf-standard/related-posts-container

Proponents argue that seniors, families, and people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to displacement in San Francisco, and the program prevents homelessness, which is costlier to address.

<p>Proponents argue that seniors, families, and people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to displacement in San Francisco, and the program prevents homelessness, which is costlier to address.</p>

Meanwhile, moderate political groups like GrowSF and TogetherSF opposed the measure on the basis it would do little to broadly address housing affordability or bring rents down.

<p>Meanwhile, moderate political groups like GrowSF and TogetherSF opposed the measure on the basis it would do little to broadly address housing affordability or bring rents down. </p>

An affordable housing unit is in the process of being built at 1360 43rd Irving in the Sunset neighborhood on Tuesday July 16, 2024. 1234 Great Highway has unique view, overlooking Stinson Beach, Golden Gate Park, and Ocean Beach. The 100% affordable homes, located seven stories up, will house a mix of elderly and formerly homeless residents. The cancellation of the controversial 50-story housing project at 2700 Sloat in June 2023 led to the acquisition of five new projects, providing over 550 affordable homes in different San Francisco neighborhoods.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240715-sunsetprojectdrawsnimbyire-tv0227.jpg?w=2500" alt="Construction workers in safety gear work at a site between modern buildings. Fences and signs are visible, with various construction materials around." class="wp-image-291735"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Should Prop. G pass, San Francisco would need to set aside at least $8.25 million a year to help extremely low-income households with rent.</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240715-sunsetprojectdrawsnimbyire-tv0227.jpg?w=2500" alt="Construction workers in safety gear work at a site between modern buildings. Fences and signs are visible, with various construction materials around." class="wp-image-291735"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Should Prop. G pass, San Francisco would need to set aside at least $8.25 million a year to help extremely low-income households with rent.</figcaption></figure>

With Prop. G&#8217;s passage, San Francisco will have to contribute at least $4 million to the fund starting in fiscal year 2026-27, and at least $8.25 million in each subsequent year, but only up to $14 million.&nbsp;

<p>With Prop. G's passage, San Francisco will have to contribute at least $4 million to the fund starting in fiscal year 2026-27, and at least $8.25 million in each subsequent year, but only up to $14 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Prop. G&#8217;s passage, San Francisco will have to contribute at least $4 million to the fund starting in fiscal year 2026-27, and at least $8.25 million in each subsequent year, but only up to $14 million.&nbsp;</p>

In years with a projected budget deficit higher than $250 million, the law would allow the city to reduce its contributions. Prop. G also includes what is known as a “sunset clause,” which states that the fund would end in 2046 unless voters reauthorize it.&nbsp;

<p>In years with a projected budget deficit higher than $250 million, the law would allow the city to reduce its contributions. Prop. G also includes what is known as a “sunset clause,” which states that the fund would end in 2046 unless voters reauthorize it.&nbsp;</p>

District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin is seen at a press conference where Mayor London Breed speaks in Portsmouth Square in Chinatown, San Francisco on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Peskin, Breed, and other officials announced that more than 100 families have been able to move out of single room occupancy (SRO) housing.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/inlined01_20240520-housingballotccdc.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a blue plaid jacket intently listens to a woman in a teal outfit speaking at a podium. Several masked and unmasked people stand in the background." class="wp-image-277000"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin, along with Mayor London Breed, right, have made lowering the cost of living a key priority in their respective mayoral campaigns.</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/inlined01_20240520-housingballotccdc.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a blue plaid jacket intently listens to a woman in a teal outfit speaking at a podium. Several masked and unmasked people stand in the background." class="wp-image-277000"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin, along with Mayor London Breed, right, have made lowering the cost of living a key priority in their respective mayoral campaigns.</figcaption></figure>

This is not the first rental assistance program of its kind. The Board of Supervisors also launched the <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2023-08/SOS%20Policies%20and%20Procedures%20Manual%202023.pdf">Senior Operating Subsidy Program</a>, which started with $5 million in 2019 and received a one-time investment of $52 million from the state, meant to cover the period between 2019 and 2024.&nbsp;

<p>This is not the first rental assistance program of its kind. The Board of Supervisors also launched the <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2023-08/SOS%20Policies%20and%20Procedures%20Manual%202023.pdf">Senior Operating Subsidy Program</a>, which started with $5 million in 2019 and received a one-time investment of $52 million from the state, meant to cover the period between 2019 and 2024.&nbsp;</p>

That program was initially piloted to seniors age 62 or older in two specific housing complexes developed by the Mayor&#8217;s Office of Housing and Community Devellopment before expanding to all qualified seniors leasing new construction units in the office’s developments.

<p>That program was initially piloted to seniors age 62 or older in two specific housing complexes developed by the Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Devellopment before expanding to all qualified seniors leasing new construction units in the office’s developments.</p>

<p>That program was initially piloted to seniors age 62 or older in two specific housing complexes developed by the Mayor&#8217;s Office of Housing and Community Devellopment before expanding to all qualified seniors leasing new construction units in the office’s developments.</p>

San Francisco voters approve rent aid for the city’s poorest residents

Christina Campodonico

It&#8217;s played like a broken record over the last couple months. San Francisco is supposedly circling the drain, caught in an irreversible &#8220;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/sf-doom-loop-convert-downtown-offices-student-housing-uc-berkeley/">doom loop</a>.&#8221; And in recent weeks, a new descriptor of the City by the Bay has taken hold on Twitter: &#8220;hellscape.&#8221;

<p>It's played like a broken record over the last couple months. San Francisco is supposedly circling the drain, caught in an irreversible "<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/sf-doom-loop-convert-downtown-offices-student-housing-uc-berkeley/">doom loop</a>." And in recent weeks, a new descriptor of the City by the Bay has taken hold on Twitter: "hellscape."  </p>

<p>It&#8217;s played like a broken record over the last couple months. San Francisco is supposedly circling the drain, caught in an irreversible &#8220;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/sf-doom-loop-convert-downtown-offices-student-housing-uc-berkeley/">doom loop</a>.&#8221; And in recent weeks, a new descriptor of the City by the Bay has taken hold on Twitter: &#8220;hellscape.&#8221;  </p>

However, many of the locals throwing the term around seem to be using it sarcastically—deploying the language of internet memes to clap back at those who say SF has reached a post-apocalyptic tipping point.

<p>However, many of the locals throwing the term around seem to be using it sarcastically—deploying the language of internet memes to clap back at those who say SF has reached a post-apocalyptic tipping point.</p>

In a typical &#8220;San Francisco is a hellscape&#8221; tweet, a Twitter user will use words to declare that the city is in hopeless disarray while posting accompanying photos or video that suggests the exact opposite.

<p>In a typical "San Francisco is a hellscape" tweet, a Twitter user will use words to declare that the city is in hopeless disarray while posting accompanying photos or video that suggests the exact opposite.</p>

<p>In a typical &#8220;San Francisco is a hellscape&#8221; tweet, a Twitter user will use words to declare that the city is in hopeless disarray while posting accompanying photos or video that suggests the exact opposite.</p>

Local journalist Matt Charnock&#8217;s oft-quoted tweet is a great example of the format:

<p>Local journalist Matt Charnock's oft-quoted tweet is a great example of the format:</p>

<p>Local journalist Matt Charnock&#8217;s oft-quoted tweet is a great example of the format:</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/figmentspot/status/1659927185422163969?s=20
</div></figure>

Some post pictures of pretty flowers, while others <a href="https://twitter.com/treekisser/status/1657849374490398721?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lean into scenic views of the bay</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/PleonTusk/status/1658518600012161024?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the city&#8217;s beloved parks</a> and pair the pic with an ironic warning, like &#8220;Don&#8217;t move here&#8221; or &#8220;Nobody goes outside.&#8221;

<p>Some post pictures of pretty flowers, while others <a href="https://twitter.com/treekisser/status/1657849374490398721?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lean into scenic views of the bay</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/PleonTusk/status/1658518600012161024?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the city's beloved parks</a> and pair the pic with an ironic warning, like "Don't move here" or "Nobody goes outside." </p>

<p>Some post pictures of pretty flowers, while others <a href="https://twitter.com/treekisser/status/1657849374490398721?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lean into scenic views of the bay</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/PleonTusk/status/1658518600012161024?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the city&#8217;s beloved parks</a> and pair the pic with an ironic warning, like &#8220;Don&#8217;t move here&#8221; or &#8220;Nobody goes outside.&#8221; </p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot-2023-05-22-at-1.07.20-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-163033"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Screenshot of a typical &#8216;SF hellscape&#8217; Twitter post. | The Standard Staff</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot-2023-05-22-at-1.07.20-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-163033"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Screenshot of a typical 'SF hellscape' Twitter post. | The Standard Staff</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot-2023-05-22-at-1.07.20-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-163033"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Screenshot of a typical &#8216;SF hellscape&#8217; Twitter post. | The Standard Staff</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/figmentspot/status/1659927645931569152?s=20
</div></figure>

Or as one Twitter user <a href="https://twitter.com/RolfieAscending/status/1660056111620452353?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">described the genre</a>: &#8220;It’s always &#8216;How could you live anywhere else?&#8217; and then: 1) a photo from pac heights or dolores park on a sunny day, or 2) a photo of a half-naked man playing a ukulele on a unicycle with a parrot on his shoulder.&#8221;

<p>Or as one Twitter user <a href="https://twitter.com/RolfieAscending/status/1660056111620452353?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">described the genre</a>: "It’s always 'How could you live anywhere else?' and then: 1) a photo from pac heights or dolores park on a sunny day, or 2) a photo of a half-naked man playing a ukulele on a unicycle with a parrot on his shoulder."  </p>

<p>Or as one Twitter user <a href="https://twitter.com/RolfieAscending/status/1660056111620452353?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">described the genre</a>: &#8220;It’s always &#8216;How could you live anywhere else?&#8217; and then: 1) a photo from pac heights or dolores park on a sunny day, or 2) a photo of a half-naked man playing a ukulele on a unicycle with a parrot on his shoulder.&#8221;  </p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/quitecurt/status/1658185730211065856?s=20
</div></figure>

Some <a href="https://twitter.com/Timmy_in_SF/status/1659960314069422083?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">even poked fun</a> at a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/snarky-fentanyl-ads-shame-mayor-city-hall-officials-together-sf/">series of snarky, anti-fentanyl ads</a> created by the political group TogetherSF Action. The ads, which carried the sardonic campaign slogan &#8220;That&#8217;s Fentalife!&#8221; recently made waves in the city. (<em>Editor’s note: Michael Moritz, a general partner at Sequoia Capital who finances The Standard, has provided funding to the 501c3 nonprofit TogetherSF and its political arm, TogetherSF Action. He is not involved in editorial decisions at The Standard.</em>)

<p>Some <a href="https://twitter.com/Timmy_in_SF/status/1659960314069422083?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">even poked fun</a> at a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/snarky-fentanyl-ads-shame-mayor-city-hall-officials-together-sf/">series of snarky, anti-fentanyl ads</a> created by the political group TogetherSF Action. The ads, which carried the sardonic campaign slogan "That's Fentalife!" recently made waves in the city. (<em>Editor’s note: Michael Moritz, a general partner at Sequoia Capital who finances The Standard, has provided funding to the 501c3 nonprofit TogetherSF and its political arm, TogetherSF Action. He is not involved in editorial decisions at The Standard.</em>) </p>

<p>Some <a href="https://twitter.com/Timmy_in_SF/status/1659960314069422083?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">even poked fun</a> at a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/snarky-fentanyl-ads-shame-mayor-city-hall-officials-together-sf/">series of snarky, anti-fentanyl ads</a> created by the political group TogetherSF Action. The ads, which carried the sardonic campaign slogan &#8220;That&#8217;s Fentalife!&#8221; recently made waves in the city. (<em>Editor’s note: Michael Moritz, a general partner at Sequoia Capital who finances The Standard, has provided funding to the 501c3 nonprofit TogetherSF and its political arm, TogetherSF Action. He is not involved in editorial decisions at The Standard.</em>) </p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/Timmy_in_SF/status/1659960314069422083?s=20
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">HELLSCAPE! DOOM SPIRAL! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThatsFentalife?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThatsFentalife</a>! <a href="https://t.co/9qaJyc1NHF">https://t.co/9qaJyc1NHF</a></p>&mdash; Tim Wayne (@Timmy_in_SF) <a href="https://twitter.com/Timmy_in_SF/status/1659960314069422083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The cheery—and cheeky—tweeters say that the media has taken the SF doom loop narrative too far (sorry!) and that the reality of living in the city is <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/local/article/san-francisco-doom-loop-imprecise-thinkpieces-18106896.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">not nearly so gloomy</a>.

<p>The cheery—and cheeky—tweeters say that the media has taken the SF doom loop narrative too far (sorry!) and that the reality of living in the city is <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/local/article/san-francisco-doom-loop-imprecise-thinkpieces-18106896.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">not nearly so gloomy</a>. </p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/treekisser/status/1657849374490398721?s=20
</div></figure>

Of course, Twitter being Twitter, there are plenty of folks who disagree—insisting that this genre of tweet is often <a href="https://twitter.com/BenLerch1/status/1660020444463009792?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">naive and obtuse</a> or coming from a <a href="https://twitter.com/stuffonfire/status/1659999388775911424?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">place of privilege</a>.

<p>Of course, Twitter being Twitter, there are plenty of folks who disagree—insisting that this genre of tweet is often <a href="https://twitter.com/BenLerch1/status/1660020444463009792?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">naive and obtuse</a> or coming from a <a href="https://twitter.com/stuffonfire/status/1659999388775911424?s=20" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">place of privilege</a>.    </p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/stuffonfire/status/1659999388775911424?s=20
</div></figure>

Other observations are more nuanced—suggesting that maybe two realities of San Francisco could exist <a href="https://twitter.com/nitishpkulkarni/status/1660002559376117760?s=20">simultaneously</a> &#8230;

<p>Other observations are more nuanced—suggesting that maybe two realities of San Francisco could exist <a href="https://twitter.com/nitishpkulkarni/status/1660002559376117760?s=20">simultaneously</a> ... </p>

<p>Other observations are more nuanced—suggesting that maybe two realities of San Francisco could exist <a href="https://twitter.com/nitishpkulkarni/status/1660002559376117760?s=20">simultaneously</a> &#8230; </p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot-2023-05-22-at-1.03.02-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-163028"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Screenshot of a reply to a &#8216;hellscape&#8217; tweet. | The Standard Staff</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot-2023-05-22-at-1.03.02-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-163028"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Screenshot of a reply to a 'hellscape' tweet. | The Standard Staff</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot-2023-05-22-at-1.03.02-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-163028"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Screenshot of a reply to a &#8216;hellscape&#8217; tweet. | The Standard Staff</figcaption></figure>

And then there are a few accelerationists, who are approaching the whole affair with a sense of detached and nihilistic pragmatism.

<p>And then there are a few accelerationists, who are approaching the whole affair with a sense of detached and nihilistic pragmatism.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/HiroAntag/status/1659348662575828995?s=20
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">can all the people fleeing the SF hellscape hurry up? my lease is up at the end of July and I need those dying city rents</p>&mdash; CRUISE CONTROL FOR COOL (@HiroAntag) <a href="https://twitter.com/HiroAntag/status/1659348662575828995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

They love San Francisco. So why are they calling the city a ‘hellscape’?

Han Li

With only a month before Election Day, San Francisco mayoral candidates have been ratcheting up the competition and trying to gain an edge in the city&#8217;s ranked-choice voting system.

<p>With only a month before Election Day, San Francisco mayoral candidates have been ratcheting up the competition and trying to gain an edge in the city's ranked-choice voting system.</p>

<p>With only a month before Election Day, San Francisco mayoral candidates have been ratcheting up the competition and trying to gain an edge in the city&#8217;s ranked-choice voting system.</p>

Mark Farrell, a former interim mayor who&#8217;s running to replace London Breed as the city’s top elected official, wants his supporters to eschew naming her on the ballot. 

<p>Mark Farrell, a former interim mayor who's running to replace London Breed as the city’s top elected official, wants his supporters to eschew naming her on the ballot. </p>

<p>Mark Farrell, a former interim mayor who&#8217;s running to replace London Breed as the city’s top elected official, wants his supporters to eschew naming her on the ballot. </p>

&#8220;Mayor Breed has overseen the sharpest decline San Francisco has faced in modern history,&#8221; Farrell told The Standard. &#8220;We must stop putting the same people in charge who have failed.&#8221;

<p>"Mayor Breed has overseen the sharpest decline San Francisco has faced in modern history," Farrell told The Standard. "We must stop putting the same people in charge who have failed."</p>

<p>&#8220;Mayor Breed has overseen the sharpest decline San Francisco has faced in modern history,&#8221; Farrell told The Standard. &#8220;We must stop putting the same people in charge who have failed.&#8221;</p>

Under the city’s ranked-choice system, voters can list candidates in order of preference, instead of selecting a single contender. If there’s no clear winner in the first round, the second-choice votes are tallied and so on, until someone garners more than 50% of the vote through a list of up to 10 candidates. 

<p>Under the city’s ranked-choice system, voters can list candidates in order of preference, instead of selecting a single contender. If there’s no clear winner in the first round, the second-choice votes are tallied and so on, until someone garners more than 50% of the vote through a list of up to 10 candidates. </p>

This system is considered beneficial for middle-ground candidates, though it can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes, with the candidate receiving the most first-choice votes losing.

<p>This system is considered beneficial for middle-ground candidates, though it can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes, with the candidate receiving the most first-choice votes losing.</p>

Farrell is also asking voters to abandon mayoral candidate and Supervisor Aaron Peskin while trying to court supporters of another challenger, nonprofit founder and Levi&#8217;s heir Daniel Lurie.

<p>Farrell is also asking voters to abandon mayoral candidate and Supervisor Aaron Peskin while trying to court supporters of another challenger, nonprofit founder and Levi's heir Daniel Lurie.</p>

<p>Farrell is also asking voters to abandon mayoral candidate and Supervisor Aaron Peskin while trying to court supporters of another challenger, nonprofit founder and Levi&#8217;s heir Daniel Lurie.</p>

Watch: San Franciscans react to snarky anti-fentanyl ads attempting to shame City Hall

San Francisco voters approve rent aid for the city’s poorest residents

They love San Francisco. So why are they calling the city a ‘hellscape’?

Mayor’s race gets petty as Mark Farrell tells supporters to snub London Breed

Posters promoting illegal drug use pop up in downtown San Francisco

Search Results for: togethersf

Watch: San Franciscans react to snarky anti-fentanyl ads attempting to shame City Hall

San Francisco voters approve rent aid for the city’s poorest residents

They love San Francisco. So why are they calling the city a ‘hellscape’?

Mayor’s race gets petty as Mark Farrell tells supporters to snub London Breed

Posters promoting illegal drug use pop up in downtown San Francisco