Sarah Wright

Kevin Truong

As companies eye permanent hybrid or work-from-home policies, San Francisco’s downtown corridor is taking longer than expected to return to normal. In a Monday afternoon report to the Board of Supervisors’ Land Use Committee, San Francisco’s Chief Economist Ted Egan said the Omicron variant and subsequent winter shutdown is to blame for the city’s slow recovery. But according to Egan, steady office rents show that companies remain hopeful that a full return to the office is coming.

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As companies eye permanent hybrid or work-from-home policies, San Francisco’s downtown corridor is taking longer than expected to return to normal. In a Monday afternoon report to the Board of Supervisors’ Land Use Committee, San Francisco’s Chief Economist Ted Egan said the Omicron variant and subsequent winter shutdown is to blame for the city’s slow recovery. But according to Egan, steady office rents show that companies remain hopeful that a full return to the office is coming.

While the vacancy rates remained relatively low in the corporate-heavy Financial District, other downtown neighborhoods like Mission Bay, Showplace Square, Mid-Market and SoMa were harder hit. 

While the vacancy rates remained relatively low in the corporate-heavy Financial District, other downtown neighborhoods like Mission Bay, Showplace Square, Mid-Market and SoMa were harder hit.

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Among similar metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles, San Francisco has on average seen the lowest weekly office attendance since the pandemic’s start, the report shows.&nbsp;

Among similar metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles, San Francisco has on average seen the lowest weekly office attendance since the pandemic’s start, the report shows.&nbsp;

Even as the city rolls out <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/san-francisco-to-lift-indoor-mask-rules-for-office-workers-gyms-on-feb-1/">new masking rules allowing office workers to go maskless if all are vaccinated</a>, Egan said San Franciscans’ cautious nature and announcements from tech companies that remote and hybrid work may become permanent means such policies aren’t bringing workers back en masse.&nbsp;

Even as the city rolls out <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/san-francisco-to-lift-indoor-mask-rules-for-office-workers-gyms-on-feb-1/">new masking rules allowing office workers to go maskless if all are vaccinated</a>, Egan said San Franciscans’ cautious nature and announcements from tech companies that remote and hybrid work may become permanent means such policies aren’t bringing workers back en masse.&nbsp;

“Too many employers have said that some form of working from home—some form of hybrid office and home work—is going to be the new normal,” Egan said.&nbsp;

“Too many employers have said that some form of working from home—some form of hybrid office and home work—is going to be the new normal,” Egan said.&nbsp;

The result is vacancy rates as high as 40% in some neighborhoods—with an average of 22%—as the city completes its second lap of the pandemic. According to data from the Building Owners and Managers Association, San Francisco has seen the second-slowest recovery in leasing activity in the country, behind Chicago.

The result is vacancy rates as high as 40% in some neighborhoods—with an average of 22%—as the city completes its second lap of the pandemic. According to data from the Building Owners and Managers Association, San Francisco has seen the second-slowest recovery in leasing activity in the country, behind Chicago.

As companies continue to push their return to office dates back and announce new permanent remote options, it’s not yet clear when all those vacancies will be filled. According to the Office of the Controller’s <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=five+year+financial+plan+kevin+rtuong&amp;rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS981US981&amp;oq=five+year+financial+plan+kevin+rtuong&amp;aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.5043j0j7&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">Five-Year Financial Plan</a> released last month, the city projects telecommuting will stabilize for the long term in 2023 and a 15% reduction in payroll and associated taxes because of the trend.

As companies continue to push their return to office dates back and announce new permanent remote options, it’s not yet clear when all those vacancies will be filled. According to the Office of the Controller’s <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=five+year+financial+plan+kevin+rtuong&amp;rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS981US981&amp;oq=five+year+financial+plan+kevin+rtuong&amp;aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.5043j0j7&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">Five-Year Financial Plan</a> released last month, the city projects telecommuting will stabilize for the long term in 2023 and a 15% reduction in payroll and associated taxes because of the trend.

Though 2021 was one of the most active years ever for venture capital investment into San Francisco companies, that funding has not yet translated into office leasing. Egan projects a potential reset in asking rents and office sales prices when a new normal is established.

Though 2021 was one of the most active years ever for venture capital investment into San Francisco companies, that funding has not yet translated into office leasing. Egan projects a potential reset in asking rents and office sales prices when a new normal is established.

Egan said he is hopeful that as employment continues to rise in the tech industry, San Francisco’s downtown corridor will see an eventual revival, even if that means commerce will have to adapt to a new type of worker—one who doesn’t come in every weekday.&nbsp;

Egan said he is hopeful that as employment continues to rise in the tech industry, San Francisco’s downtown corridor will see an eventual revival, even if that means commerce will have to adapt to a new type of worker—one who doesn’t come in every weekday.&nbsp;

It’s clear from the numbers that businesses and workers that serve downtown crowds have suffered as workers stay home. Supervisor Ahsha Safaí said an estimated $1 billion in business tax revenue has been lost due to the Covid-related exodus of employees and businesses. And with most businesses still allowing flexible work, more than 2,800 janitors are still out of work, according to Safaí.

It’s clear from the numbers that businesses and workers that serve downtown crowds have suffered as workers stay home. Supervisor Ahsha Safaí said an estimated $1 billion in business tax revenue has been lost due to the Covid-related exodus of employees and businesses. And with most businesses still allowing flexible work, more than 2,800 janitors are still out of work, according to Safaí.

One disconnect highlighted by the committee is the relatively high commercial rents that landlords are still asking for even with the noted decline in leasing activity. Egan attributed this to the lack of current demand from prospective tenants coupled with building owners betting on office workers and well-funded companies coming back when the pandemic subsides.&nbsp;

One disconnect highlighted by the committee is the relatively high commercial rents that landlords are still asking for even with the noted decline in leasing activity. Egan attributed this to the lack of current demand from prospective tenants coupled with building owners betting on office workers and well-funded companies coming back when the pandemic subsides.&nbsp;

When asked about the potential for underused office buildings to be converted into housing, Egan said the chances are slim, at least in the short term.&nbsp;

When asked about the potential for underused office buildings to be converted into housing, Egan said the chances are slim, at least in the short term.&nbsp;

“We&#8217;re seeing residential rents down in San Francisco, notwithstanding the boom in real estate worldwide, condo prices in San Francisco are flat and building costs are rising,” Egan said.&nbsp;

“We're seeing residential rents down in San Francisco, notwithstanding the boom in real estate worldwide, condo prices in San Francisco are flat and building costs are rising,” Egan said.&nbsp;

“We&#8217;re seeing residential rents down in San Francisco, notwithstanding the boom in real estate worldwide, condo prices in San Francisco are flat and building costs are rising,” Egan said.&nbsp;

Hotel occupancy—a signal of the tourism industry’s health—has also taken a major hit from the pandemic and sits below 30%. Egan tied the health of the office market to the tourism industry, particularly with the majority of convention and group travel before the pandemic driven by tech industry events or scientific conferences closely related to Bay Area research and business activity.

Hotel occupancy—a signal of the tourism industry’s health—has also taken a major hit from the pandemic and sits below 30%. Egan tied the health of the office market to the tourism industry, particularly with the majority of convention and group travel before the pandemic driven by tech industry events or scientific conferences closely related to Bay Area research and business activity.

As part of an effort to attract more workers and residents downtown, the city’s Office of Workforce Development has tested out cultural and events programming, including its <a href="https://sfwednesdays.com/">SFWednesdays</a> live event series.

As part of an effort to attract more workers and residents downtown, the city’s Office of Workforce Development has tested out cultural and events programming, including its <a href="https://sfwednesdays.com/">SFWednesdays</a> live event series.

The city plans to hire a consultant to further analyze and survey downtown businesses.&nbsp;

The city plans to hire a consultant to further analyze and survey downtown businesses.&nbsp;

“I don&#8217;t think there is any question: Our downtown will come back,” Safaí said. “It’s just a question of when.”

“I don't think there is any question: Our downtown will come back,” Safaí said. “It’s just a question of when.”

“I don&#8217;t think there is any question: Our downtown will come back,” Safaí said. “It’s just a question of when.”

Downtown revival stunted by Omicron, but rents remain stable

Michael Barba

Josh Koehn

District Attorney <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/brooke-jenkins-100k-pay-may-have-been-legal-but-was-it-ethical/">Brooke Jenkins</a> could have a real race on her hands.

District Attorney <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/brooke-jenkins-100k-pay-may-have-been-legal-but-was-it-ethical/">Brooke Jenkins</a> could have a real race on her hands.

John Hamasaki, a criminal defense attorney best known for his vocal criticisms of the police as a member of the civilian Police Commission, pulled papers with the Department of Elections Thursday, signaling his intent to jump into the November contest against Jenkins.

John Hamasaki, a criminal defense attorney best known for his vocal criticisms of the police as a member of the civilian Police Commission, pulled papers with the Department of Elections Thursday, signaling his intent to jump into the November contest against Jenkins.

Hamasaki has until 5 p.m. Friday to submit nomination documents and pay a $5,886 fee to formally become a candidate.

Hamasaki has until 5 p.m. Friday to submit nomination documents and pay a $5,886 fee to formally become a candidate.

Hamasaki said he has been considering throwing his hat into the ring for a long time but decided to run following recent “public ethics and integrity revelations” about Jenkins. On Tuesday, The Standard first reported that Jenkins earned more than $100,000 from a nonprofit closely tied to the Boudin recall—while publicly casting herself as a volunteer for the effort.

Hamasaki said he has been considering throwing his hat into the ring for a long time but decided to run following recent “public ethics and integrity revelations” about Jenkins. On Tuesday, The Standard first reported that Jenkins earned more than $100,000 from a nonprofit closely tied to the Boudin recall—while publicly casting herself as a volunteer for the effort.

“Every act that we’ve seen with the new DA has only added to the corruption, incompetence and mismanagement of the District Attorney’s office,” Hamasaki said. “The District Attorney’s Office needs a leader who is experienced in management, who is experienced in policy who is experienced in working with people on the ground of all types.”

“Every act that we’ve seen with the new DA has only added to the corruption, incompetence and mismanagement of the District Attorney’s office,” Hamasaki said. “The District Attorney’s Office needs a leader who is experienced in management, who is experienced in policy who is experienced in working with people on the ground of all types.”

John Hamasaki works at his desk during a portrait session in his law office in San Francisco, Calif., on Thursday, August 11, 2022. Hamasaki filed papers with the Department of Elections on Thursday to run for DA. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/ProgressiveDAHopeful-25.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-67742"/><figcaption>John Hamasaki works at his desk during a portrait session in his law office in San Francisco, Calif., on Thursday, August 11, 2022. Hamasaki filed papers with the Department of Elections on Thursday to run for DA. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/ProgressiveDAHopeful-25.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-67742"/><figcaption>John Hamasaki works at his desk during a portrait session in his law office in San Francisco, Calif., on Thursday, August 11, 2022. Hamasaki filed papers with the Department of Elections on Thursday to run for DA. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

His potential entrance into the race sets up what stands to become a fierce contest between Hamasaki, who could secure backing from the progressive faction of City Hall politics, and Jenkins, whom Mayor London Breed appointed July 8 to succeed recalled District Attorney Chesa Boudin and who has the endorsements of leading moderates.&nbsp;

His potential entrance into the race sets up what stands to become a fierce contest between Hamasaki, who could secure backing from the progressive faction of City Hall politics, and Jenkins, whom Mayor London Breed appointed July 8 to succeed recalled District Attorney Chesa Boudin and who has the endorsements of leading moderates.&nbsp;

But Hamasaki and Jenkins aren’t the only two potential candidates in the running.

But Hamasaki and Jenkins aren’t the only two potential candidates in the running.

Joe Alioto Veronese—another former police commissioner whose lineage in local politics dates back to his grandfather, former Mayor Joe Alioto—intends to run in the center of Jenkins and Hamasaki, while attorney Maurice Chenier has also filed papers.

Joe Alioto Veronese—another former police commissioner whose lineage in local politics dates back to his grandfather, former Mayor Joe Alioto—intends to run in the center of Jenkins and Hamasaki, while attorney Maurice Chenier has also filed papers.

Boudin, who opted out of challenging Jenkins in November but could run again in the future, has not yet endorsed a candidate. He told The Standard that Hamasaki has not asked for his endorsement but would consider offering his support if asked.

Boudin, who opted out of challenging Jenkins in November but could run again in the future, has not yet endorsed a candidate. He told The Standard that Hamasaki has not asked for his endorsement but would consider offering his support if asked.

“I’m happy to see candidates in the race who are truly independent of the mayor and would be accountable to the people of San Francisco if elected,” Boudin said.

“I’m happy to see candidates in the race who are truly independent of the mayor and would be accountable to the people of San Francisco if elected,” Boudin said.

Jim Ross, a San Francisco political consultant who led the Boudin campaign against the recall, called Hamasaki a “very viable” option.

Jim Ross, a San Francisco political consultant who led the Boudin campaign against the recall, called Hamasaki a “very viable” option.

“He gives voters a real strong option and will be a strong contrast to Brooke Jenkins,” said Ross, who is not involved in the current race. “I think he has real proven integrity.”

“He gives voters a real strong option and will be a strong contrast to Brooke Jenkins,” said Ross, who is not involved in the current race. “I think he has real proven integrity.”

Ross also said that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/da-jenkins-pocketed-six-figures-as-consultant-for-nonprofit-linked-to-boudin-recall-backers/">the recent report about Jenkins</a> earning a six-figure salary <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/brooke-jenkins-100k-pay-may-have-been-legal-but-was-it-ethical/">could burden her campaign</a> and make it harder for her to broaden her base.

Ross also said that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/da-jenkins-pocketed-six-figures-as-consultant-for-nonprofit-linked-to-boudin-recall-backers/">the recent report about Jenkins</a> earning a six-figure salary <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/brooke-jenkins-100k-pay-may-have-been-legal-but-was-it-ethical/">could burden her campaign</a> and make it harder for her to broaden her base.

Hamasaki, who runs his own law practice and served as president of the Bay Area Asian American Bar Association in 2020, has lived in North Beach for 28 years. He was born in Miami, Florida, to a white mother and Japanese-American father.

Hamasaki, who runs his own law practice and served as president of the Bay Area Asian American Bar Association in 2020, has lived in North Beach for 28 years. He was born in Miami, Florida, to a white mother and Japanese-American father.

Hamasaki served on the Police Commission from June 2018 until stepping down at the end of his term this April. He was frequently the most willing member of the oversight body to question SFPD Chief Bill Scott during meetings.

Hamasaki served on the Police Commission from June 2018 until stepping down at the end of his term this April. He was frequently the most willing member of the oversight body to question SFPD Chief Bill Scott during meetings.

Tensions between him and the chief notably <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/sf-police-commission-skewers-chief-scott-for-breaking-reform-agreement-with-da-chesa-boudin/">erupted in February</a> when Hamasaki challenged Scott over his threat to pull out of a reform agreement with Boudin on who investigates police shootings.

Tensions between him and the chief notably <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/sf-police-commission-skewers-chief-scott-for-breaking-reform-agreement-with-da-chesa-boudin/">erupted in February</a> when Hamasaki challenged Scott over his threat to pull out of a reform agreement with Boudin on who investigates police shootings.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">A fight between SF police &amp; DA Chesa Boudin erupted this week when an agreement on police shooting investigations was broken. One of the DA’s defenders is police commissioner John Hamasaki, who called out SF&#39;s police chief in a finger-pointing, charged confrontation. (1/11) <a href="https://t.co/aIwQZSW0wR">pic.twitter.com/aIwQZSW0wR</a>&mdash; The San Francisco Standard (@sfstandard) <a href="https://twitter.com/sfstandard/status/1489778684726706177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2022</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Hamasaki is also a controversial figure for making his views known on Twitter, where he writes posts that seem intended to get a rise out of his ideological opponents.

Hamasaki is also a controversial figure for making his views known on Twitter, where he writes posts that seem intended to get a rise out of his ideological opponents.

One of his posts in particular landed him in hot water last year when Hamasaki tweeted an “uncomfortable truth” about teenagers carrying guns in response to New York police posting about seizing a stolen pistol from a 17-year-old suspect. Hamasaki said he was trying to convey that people live in danger of gun violence and at times need to protect themselves.

One of his posts in particular landed him in hot water last year when Hamasaki tweeted an “uncomfortable truth” about teenagers carrying guns in response to New York police posting about seizing a stolen pistol from a 17-year-old suspect. Hamasaki said he was trying to convey that people live in danger of gun violence and at times need to protect themselves.

The tweet led to calls for his resignation from supervisors on the moderate side of the aisle, Catherine Stefani and Ahsha Safai, as well as criticism from Supervisor Myrna Melgar.&nbsp;Hamasaki <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/local/article/S-F-police-commissioner-called-to-apologize-for-16004556.php">fired back</a> at Melgar by citing a tweet about her sister’s connection to the troubled police department in Vallejo. He ultimately apologized for the response.

The tweet led to calls for his resignation from supervisors on the moderate side of the aisle, Catherine Stefani and Ahsha Safai, as well as criticism from Supervisor Myrna Melgar.&nbsp;Hamasaki <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/local/article/S-F-police-commissioner-called-to-apologize-for-16004556.php">fired back</a> at Melgar by citing a tweet about her sister’s connection to the troubled police department in Vallejo. He ultimately apologized for the response.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Commissioner, this sends the absolute wrong message. Shootings have spiked over the course of the past year, killing far too many young people in our city. If you’re not up for the task of keeping all San Franciscans safe, you should step aside. <a href="https://t.co/GIiAo8Euhp">https://t.co/GIiAo8Euhp</a>&mdash; Catherine Stefani 司嘉怡 (@Stefani4CA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stefani4CA/status/1366899709160292352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Reached by phone Thursday, Melgar said she would not support Hamasaki’s candidacy for district attorney and that he may have faced an uphill battle even securing a second term on the Police Commission following his social media gaffe.

Reached by phone Thursday, Melgar said she would not support Hamasaki’s candidacy for district attorney and that he may have faced an uphill battle even securing a second term on the Police Commission following his social media gaffe.

Melgar said there was a double standard for female politicians like Jenkins, who has faced criticism for lacking experience, compared to men like Boudin or Hamasaki.

Melgar said there was a double standard for female politicians like Jenkins, who has faced criticism for lacking experience, compared to men like Boudin or Hamasaki.

“This guy now walks in and he has never been a prosecutor, he has been a criminal defense attorney, he has never worked for the government and yet he feels like he can be the top prosecutor for the city,” Melgar said. “I feel like the misogyny in that is really, really ripe”

“This guy now walks in and he has never been a prosecutor, he has been a criminal defense attorney, he has never worked for the government and yet he feels like he can be the top prosecutor for the city,” Melgar said. “I feel like the misogyny in that is really, really ripe”

In response, Hamasaki acknowledged that men and women are held to a different standard in society and that he would work to address the issue as district attorney.

In response, Hamasaki acknowledged that men and women are held to a different standard in society and that he would work to address the issue as district attorney.

Hamasaki said he doesn’t think his fiery tweets will cause problems for his campaign.

Hamasaki said he doesn’t think his fiery tweets will cause problems for his campaign.

“We’re in a different world,” Hamasaki said. “My 93-year-old dad has Facebook … Has every tweet of mine been on point? No. But I think that in trying to challenge the failures of the criminal justice system and the failures of city politics in San Francisco, I have definitely not held back.”

“We’re in a different world,” Hamasaki said. “My 93-year-old dad has Facebook … Has every tweet of mine been on point? No. But I think that in trying to challenge the failures of the criminal justice system and the failures of city politics in San Francisco, I have definitely not held back.”

Despite his controversial tweets, Hamasaki’s potential candidacy could still throw a wrench in Jenkins’ plan to win in November and serve out the remainder of Boudin’s term through 2023.

Despite his controversial tweets, Hamasaki’s potential candidacy could still throw a wrench in Jenkins’ plan to win in November and serve out the remainder of Boudin’s term through 2023.

The city’s ranked-choice voting system rewards candidates who may not be the first choice of voters but are considered more preferable options in second, third, fourth and so on. Hamasaki could secure many of the progressive votes that would have gone Boudin’s way had the recalled district attorney decided to make a go at winning back his job.

The city’s ranked-choice voting system rewards candidates who may not be the first choice of voters but are considered more preferable options in second, third, fourth and so on. Hamasaki could secure many of the progressive votes that would have gone Boudin’s way had the recalled district attorney decided to make a go at winning back his job.

Jenkins, whose campaign declined to comment on Hamasaki’s foray into the race, will likely secure many of the votes that were cast for Boudin’s ouster after she volunteered as the spokesperson for the recall. But she has never run a campaign and was not particularly well known in political circles until the recall started gaining steam earlier this year.

Jenkins, whose campaign declined to comment on Hamasaki’s foray into the race, will likely secure many of the votes that were cast for Boudin’s ouster after she volunteered as the spokesperson for the recall. But she has never run a campaign and was not particularly well known in political circles until the recall started gaining steam earlier this year.

As for Alioto Veronese, he told The Standard on Thursday that he is positioning himself as a middle-ground option for progressives and moderates. He called the reform efforts under Boudin “a failed experiment” and Jenkins’ appointment a “coup” orchestrated by recall supporter and billionaire William Oberndorf.

As for Alioto Veronese, he told The Standard on Thursday that he is positioning himself as a middle-ground option for progressives and moderates. He called the reform efforts under Boudin “a failed experiment” and Jenkins’ appointment a “coup” orchestrated by recall supporter and billionaire William Oberndorf.

“When it comes down to it, it’s going to be me versus Jenkins and I’m going to be taking votes from the progressives and taking votes from the moderates,” Alioto Veronese said. “I’m not going to be pigeonholed into one constituency.”

“When it comes down to it, it’s going to be me versus Jenkins and I’m going to be taking votes from the progressives and taking votes from the moderates,” Alioto Veronese said. “I’m not going to be pigeonholed into one constituency.”

Sam Singer, a San Francisco political consultant who is not involved in any of the campaigns, said Hamasaki’s reputation and actions on the Police Commission should invigorate the race.

Sam Singer, a San Francisco political consultant who is not involved in any of the campaigns, said Hamasaki’s reputation and actions on the Police Commission should invigorate the race.

“He’s a very divisive figure,” Singer said. “He is such a firebrand and so unreasonable, it makes him unqualified to be a public servant of any kind. That being said, I have respect for his views. He will make for a lively candidate and a very good bullseye for anyone who wants to go after the progressive left.”

“He’s a very divisive figure,” Singer said. “He is such a firebrand and so unreasonable, it makes him unqualified to be a public servant of any kind. That being said, I have respect for his views. He will make for a lively candidate and a very good bullseye for anyone who wants to go after the progressive left.”

Fiery ex-Police Commissioner John Hamasaki likely running for district attorney against Brooke Jenkins

David Sjostedt

Mayor London Breed kicked off the Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday with a recognition of Women’s History Month and a call to action regarding widespread vacancies across city agencies. Breed said that over 10% of city staff positions are unoccupied, and she called for supervisors to create solutions that will circumvent the city’s lengthy hiring process.&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed kicked off the Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday with a recognition of Women’s History Month and a call to action regarding widespread vacancies across city agencies. Breed said that over 10% of city staff positions are unoccupied, and she called for supervisors to create solutions that will circumvent the city’s lengthy hiring process.&nbsp;

Following the mayor’s comments, the board approved laws that aim to cut down on street vending, increase access to public spaces in Golden Gate Park and help provide more housing for the homeless.&nbsp;

Following the mayor’s comments, the board approved laws that aim to cut down on street vending, increase access to public spaces in Golden Gate Park and help provide more housing for the homeless.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Street Vending</h2>

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Supervisors unanimously passed legislation that will increase access to permits for street vendors who want to do legitimate business while also exacting fines on those who sell stolen goods.

Supervisors unanimously passed legislation that will increase access to permits for street vendors who want to do legitimate business while also exacting fines on those who sell stolen goods.

The legislation, which was initially introduced by Supervisor Ahsha Safaí &nbsp;in response to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/merchants-remain-uneasy-but-shoppers-unfazed-following-union-square-thefts/">November Union Square smash-and-grabs</a>, gained support from the mayor during her <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/mayor-announces-crackdown-on-tenderloin-crime-in-fiery-press-conference/">news conferences calling out crime in December</a>. The legislation made it to the Budget and Finance Committee but stalled before being amended with input from Supervisor Hillary Ronen, who advocated for more community engagement and educational reform to the current permitting process.&nbsp;

The legislation, which was initially introduced by Supervisor Ahsha Safaí &nbsp;in response to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/merchants-remain-uneasy-but-shoppers-unfazed-following-union-square-thefts/">November Union Square smash-and-grabs</a>, gained support from the mayor during her <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/mayor-announces-crackdown-on-tenderloin-crime-in-fiery-press-conference/">news conferences calling out crime in December</a>. The legislation made it to the Budget and Finance Committee but stalled before being amended with input from Supervisor Hillary Ronen, who advocated for more community engagement and educational reform to the current permitting process.&nbsp;

“The goal here is to stop people from selling stolen goods, but not to punish immigrant street vendors,” Ronen said Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The goal here is to stop people from selling stolen goods, but not to punish immigrant street vendors,” Ronen said Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2019, Ronen’s office worked with community members to help organize a legal flea market in the Mission District, sanctioning a section of Julian Street for vendors to sell their goods. But the market eventually became untenable and dissolved back onto the sidewalks of Mission Street.

In 2019, Ronen’s office worked with community members to help organize a legal flea market in the Mission District, sanctioning a section of Julian Street for vendors to sell their goods. But the market eventually became untenable and dissolved back onto the sidewalks of Mission Street.

The newly passed legislation pairs enforcement from the Department of Public Works with a low-barrier permitting process administered by community-based organizations.&nbsp;

The newly passed legislation pairs enforcement from the Department of Public Works with a low-barrier permitting process administered by community-based organizations.&nbsp;

While a recent Budget &amp; Legislative Analyst (BLA) report states that “sidewalk vending is unregulated in most areas of the city,” <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/mission-street-vendors-fret-about-influx/">vendors have complained of paying for SFPD permits</a> that were never enforced.&nbsp;

While a recent Budget &amp; Legislative Analyst (BLA) report states that “sidewalk vending is unregulated in most areas of the city,” <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/mission-street-vendors-fret-about-influx/">vendors have complained of paying for SFPD permits</a> that were never enforced.&nbsp;

The new legislation proposes a $250 fine for first-time violations, $500 for a second violation and $1,000 for every subsequent violation within a year of someone selling goods without a permit.

The new legislation proposes a $250 fine for first-time violations, $500 for a second violation and $1,000 for every subsequent violation within a year of someone selling goods without a permit.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-panoramic-hotel">Panoramic Hotel</h2>

<h2 id="h-panoramic-hotel">Panoramic Hotel</h2>

Supervisors unanimously voted to use more than $54 million in state funds to acquire the Panoramic Hotel at 1321 Mission St. as a permanent supportive housing facility for unhoused residents. The acquisition <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/south-of-market-residents-push-back-against-homeless-housing-plan/">faced community pushback in September</a>, as residents of the surrounding South of Market neighborhood complained about an overwhelming density of shelters in the neighborhood, a potential uptick in crime and a lack of rehabilitation services.&nbsp;

Supervisors unanimously voted to use more than $54 million in state funds to acquire the Panoramic Hotel at 1321 Mission St. as a permanent supportive housing facility for unhoused residents. The acquisition <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/south-of-market-residents-push-back-against-homeless-housing-plan/">faced community pushback in September</a>, as residents of the surrounding South of Market neighborhood complained about an overwhelming density of shelters in the neighborhood, a potential uptick in crime and a lack of rehabilitation services.&nbsp;

The property will open March 21, and it could potentially house up to 240 people, according to the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing.&nbsp;

The property will open March 21, and it could potentially house up to 240 people, according to the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing.&nbsp;

The city is tapping into $109 million worth of state and local funds from Project Homekey and Prop C, in addition to $16 million from the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, to help complete the hotel’s purchase and jumpstart shelter operations for the next five years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city is tapping into $109 million worth of state and local funds from Project Homekey and Prop C, in addition to $16 million from the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, to help complete the hotel’s purchase and jumpstart shelter operations for the next five years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Residents Fly Free at Golden Gate Park

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Residents Fly Free at Golden Gate Park</h2>

<h2>Residents Fly Free at Golden Gate Park</h2>

Supervisors voted to waive fees for San Francisco residents who visit Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers—but not without pushback from Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who said the motion was giving the wrong idea to tourists.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supervisors voted to waive fees for San Francisco residents who visit Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers—but not without pushback from Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who said the motion was giving the wrong idea to tourists.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are trying to attract non-residents back to San Francisco and some of its star attractions,” he said. “I know it feels attractive because we&#8217;re giving something to our constituents, but at the same time, we&#8217;re discouraging people to do precisely what we want visitors to do.”

“We are trying to attract non-residents back to San Francisco and some of its star attractions,” he said. “I know it feels attractive because we're giving something to our constituents, but at the same time, we're discouraging people to do precisely what we want visitors to do.”

“We are trying to attract non-residents back to San Francisco and some of its star attractions,” he said. “I know it feels attractive because we&#8217;re giving something to our constituents, but at the same time, we&#8217;re discouraging people to do precisely what we want visitors to do.”

Supervisor Connie Chan, who ultimately voted in favor of waiving the fees, also raised concerns that the legislation reinstates flexible pricing, which enables the Recreation and Parks Department—at its own discretion—to raise entrance fees for non-residents by up to 70%. The current rate for non-resident adults to visit the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers is $10.&nbsp;

Supervisor Connie Chan, who ultimately voted in favor of waiving the fees, also raised concerns that the legislation reinstates flexible pricing, which enables the Recreation and Parks Department—at its own discretion—to raise entrance fees for non-residents by up to 70%. The current rate for non-resident adults to visit the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers is $10.&nbsp;

However, Tuesday’s decision will allow the Recreations and Parks Department to lower fees on particular days and times due to bad weather, improper maintenance or other special considerations.

However, Tuesday’s decision will allow the Recreations and Parks Department to lower fees on particular days and times due to bad weather, improper maintenance or other special considerations.

The BLA <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=10559575&amp;GUID=2FA6E90B-D78E-482C-8042-71862B6F6868">predicted in a report</a> that the annual revenue loss from the legislation could be regained by a $1 increase in ticket prices for non-residents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The BLA <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=10559575&amp;GUID=2FA6E90B-D78E-482C-8042-71862B6F6868">predicted in a report</a> that the annual revenue loss from the legislation could be regained by a $1 increase in ticket prices for non-residents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The legislation, which was introduced by Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Gordon Mar, passed with only one dissenting vote from Peskin.

The legislation, which was introduced by Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Gordon Mar, passed with only one dissenting vote from Peskin.

SF supervisors back new street vendor rules, push ahead on acquiring hotel for the homeless

Meaghan Mitchell

Could a new kind of grocery store be the answer to the Bayview neighborhood’s food desert problems?

Could a new kind of grocery store be the answer to the Bayview neighborhood’s food desert problems?

That was the topic of a recent workshop exploring the possibility of revamping a 14,000 square-foot space on Third St.—recently home to two different supermarkets that failed—into a first-of-its-kind “food empowerment market.” The idea is a community market that would distribute donated or subsidized food—but unlike a food bank, eligible shoppers would be able to pick and choose their own groceries and either pay for the goods at a subsidized price or obtain them for free.

That was the topic of a recent workshop exploring the possibility of revamping a 14,000 square-foot space on Third St.—recently home to two different supermarkets that failed—into a first-of-its-kind “food empowerment market.” The idea is a community market that would distribute donated or subsidized food—but unlike a food bank, eligible shoppers would be able to pick and choose their own groceries and either pay for the goods at a subsidized price or obtain them for free.

The market would also host an on-site community kitchen focusing on culinary education and offer free delivery service for seniors and those with mobility issues.&nbsp;

The market would also host an on-site community kitchen focusing on culinary education and offer free delivery service for seniors and those with mobility issues.&nbsp;

“We respect and appreciate food pantries, and they need to continue, but we also need to create a space that distributes food in a more efficient and faster way to communities,” said Board of Supervisors President Shamann Walton, who hosted the workshop alongside District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai. “Folks being able to come and pick the things that they actually need rather than taking things that are just going to go to waste is important.”

“We respect and appreciate food pantries, and they need to continue, but we also need to create a space that distributes food in a more efficient and faster way to communities,” said Board of Supervisors President Shamann Walton, who hosted the workshop alongside District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai. “Folks being able to come and pick the things that they actually need rather than taking things that are just going to go to waste is important.”

The Food Empowerment Market idea stems from <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=9616380&amp;GUID=64AE591E-E47E-44A3-9760-58F1270164E1">legislation</a> introduced by Safai that allocates $1.5 million in startup funds from the Human Service Agency to establish the model for the new market in partnership with a yet-to-be-named neighborhood nonprofit.

The Food Empowerment Market idea stems from <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=9616380&amp;GUID=64AE591E-E47E-44A3-9760-58F1270164E1">legislation</a> introduced by Safai that allocates $1.5 million in startup funds from the Human Service Agency to establish the model for the new market in partnership with a yet-to-be-named neighborhood nonprofit.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Still_5-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12769"/><figcaption>Supervisor Ahsha Safai, center right, chats with Howard Ngo | Photo by Mike Kuba</figcaption></figure>

Bayview-Hunters Point is considered a food desert by the <a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-access-research-atlas/go-to-the-atlas/">U.S. Department of Agriculture</a> and has the highest rates of obesity in San Francisco with <a href="https://www.eachgreencorner.org/2020/08/13/what-is-a-food-desert/">less than five percent</a> of food sold in the neighborhood consisting of fresh produce. The neighborhood also has the most residents (mainly seniors) facing food insecurity than anywhere else in the city, according to a <a href="https://www.sfdph.org/dph/files/mtgsGrps/FoodSecTaskFrc/docs/GapsAnalysis_12_08_2020.pdf">report</a> from the San Francisco Department of Public Health.

Bayview-Hunters Point is considered a food desert by the <a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-access-research-atlas/go-to-the-atlas/">U.S. Department of Agriculture</a> and has the highest rates of obesity in San Francisco with <a href="https://www.eachgreencorner.org/2020/08/13/what-is-a-food-desert/">less than five percent</a> of food sold in the neighborhood consisting of fresh produce. The neighborhood also has the most residents (mainly seniors) facing food insecurity than anywhere else in the city, according to a <a href="https://www.sfdph.org/dph/files/mtgsGrps/FoodSecTaskFrc/docs/GapsAnalysis_12_08_2020.pdf">report</a> from the San Francisco Department of Public Health.

The 5800 Third St. location was previously occupied by Duc Loi’s Pantry, and before that, by a Fresh &amp; Easy market. Since it is already built out as a supermarket, it could be a comparatively easy “turn-key” pilot for the food empowerment concept.&nbsp;

The 5800 Third St. location was previously occupied by Duc Loi’s Pantry, and before that, by a Fresh &amp; Easy market. Since it is already built out as a supermarket, it could be a comparatively easy “turn-key” pilot for the food empowerment concept.&nbsp;

“We’re trying to find a place in District 10 to address this issue of food insecurity first, and then, of course, expand this concept across other districts in the city. Duc Loi&#8217;s just happens to be a space that’s available,” President Walton added.&nbsp;

“We’re trying to find a place in District 10 to address this issue of food insecurity first, and then, of course, expand this concept across other districts in the city. Duc Loi's just happens to be a space that’s available,” President Walton added.&nbsp;

“We’re trying to find a place in District 10 to address this issue of food insecurity first, and then, of course, expand this concept across other districts in the city. Duc Loi&#8217;s just happens to be a space that’s available,” President Walton added.&nbsp;

A deal would still have to be done with <a href="https://hoodline.com/2016/04/duc-loi-pantry-prepares-bayview-grocery-store/">Howard and Amanda Ngo</a>, who own the popular Duc Loi&#8217;s Market in the Mission District and worked with the city to buy the Third Street site after Fresh &amp; Easy closed.

A deal would still have to be done with <a href="https://hoodline.com/2016/04/duc-loi-pantry-prepares-bayview-grocery-store/">Howard and Amanda Ngo</a>, who own the popular Duc Loi's Market in the Mission District and worked with the city to buy the Third Street site after Fresh &amp; Easy closed.

A deal would still have to be done with <a href="https://hoodline.com/2016/04/duc-loi-pantry-prepares-bayview-grocery-store/">Howard and Amanda Ngo</a>, who own the popular Duc Loi&#8217;s Market in the Mission District and worked with the city to buy the Third Street site after Fresh &amp; Easy closed.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Still_1-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12787"/><figcaption>A shot of the empty Duc Loi&#8217;s Pantry | Photo by Mike Kuba</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Still_1-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12787"/><figcaption>A shot of the empty Duc Loi's Pantry | Photo by Mike Kuba</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Still_1-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12787"/><figcaption>A shot of the empty Duc Loi&#8217;s Pantry | Photo by Mike Kuba</figcaption></figure>

Larry Brucia, a store design consultant and president of the Sutti Associates, said getting a food empowerment market up and running could be as simple as turning the lights on.

Larry Brucia, a store design consultant and president of the Sutti Associates, said getting a food empowerment market up and running could be as simple as turning the lights on.

“Traditionally, when you develop a grocery store, most of the money which typically adds up to millions of dollars is spent on the infrastructure &#8211; which is the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration,” said Brucia. “In this particular case, Duc Loi&#8217;s Pantry has all the necessary equipment, so the infrastructure costs have already been embedded within the space.”&nbsp;

“Traditionally, when you develop a grocery store, most of the money which typically adds up to millions of dollars is spent on the infrastructure - which is the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration,” said Brucia. “In this particular case, Duc Loi's Pantry has all the necessary equipment, so the infrastructure costs have already been embedded within the space.”&nbsp;

“Traditionally, when you develop a grocery store, most of the money which typically adds up to millions of dollars is spent on the infrastructure &#8211; which is the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration,” said Brucia. “In this particular case, Duc Loi&#8217;s Pantry has all the necessary equipment, so the infrastructure costs have already been embedded within the space.”&nbsp;

A Safai spokesman said his office and the Human Services Agency are currently in talks with Ngo about the concept and how the space might be leased from him. Ngo could not be reached for comment.

A Safai spokesman said his office and the Human Services Agency are currently in talks with Ngo about the concept and how the space might be leased from him. Ngo could not be reached for comment.

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-star-crossed-site">Star-Crossed Site</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-star-crossed-site">Star-Crossed Site</h2>

Some residents who live in the condos above the vacant store have questions about how the food empowerment concept would serve them.&nbsp;

Some residents who live in the condos above the vacant store have questions about how the food empowerment concept would serve them.&nbsp;

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Food empowerment: A new kind of grocery store may come to the Bayview

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Search Results for: ahsha safaí

Downtown revival stunted by Omicron, but rents remain stable

Fiery ex-Police Commissioner John Hamasaki likely running for district attorney against Brooke Jenkins

SF supervisors back new street vendor rules, push ahead on acquiring hotel for the homeless

Food empowerment: A new kind of grocery store may come to the Bayview

SF voters to weigh in on 7 ballot measures for the June 7 primary election