Mike Ege

Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors’ meeting made up for past weeks’ light agendas with the welcoming of a new member, pointed questioning on affordable housing, significant new legislation and a marathon public comment session over the recent and heated redistricting process.&nbsp;

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Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors’ meeting made up for past weeks’ light agendas with the welcoming of a new member, pointed questioning on affordable housing, significant new legislation and a marathon public comment session over the recent and heated redistricting process.&nbsp;

Mayor’s Appearance: Preston’s PROXY Battle &amp; Affordable Housing

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-mayor-s-appearance-preston-s-proxy-battle-affordable-housing">Mayor’s Appearance: Preston’s PROXY Battle &amp; Affordable Housing</h2>

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<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-mayor-s-appearance-preston-s-proxy-battle-affordable-housing">Mayor’s Appearance: Preston’s PROXY Battle &amp; Affordable Housing</h2>

Unlike <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/board-of-supervisors-in-4-minutes-no-call-no-show-and-having-a-cow-over-jfk/">last month</a>, when Board President Shamann Walton apparently “forgot” about her waiting to appear before the Board, Mayor London Breed was able to offer a warm welcome to new District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey. She then got an earful from District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston on affordable housing.&nbsp;

Unlike <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/board-of-supervisors-in-4-minutes-no-call-no-show-and-having-a-cow-over-jfk/">last month</a>, when Board President Shamann Walton apparently “forgot” about her waiting to appear before the Board, Mayor London Breed was able to offer a warm welcome to new District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey. She then got an earful from District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston on affordable housing.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Following the new supervisor’s suggestion, Dorsey’s swearing-in ceremony was held at Delancey Street, the Mission Bay-based substance abuse treatment nonprofit. Breed related Dorsey’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/mayor-breed-taps-matt-dorsey-a-police-spokesperson-and-longtime-civil-servant-to-lead-district-6/">past struggles with addiction</a> and his stated determination to tackle the drug overdose crisis currently wreaking havoc in SoMa and the Tenderloin.&nbsp;</li></ul>

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<ul><li>Following the new supervisor’s suggestion, Dorsey’s swearing-in ceremony was held at Delancey Street, the Mission Bay-based substance abuse treatment nonprofit. Breed related Dorsey’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/mayor-breed-taps-matt-dorsey-a-police-spokesperson-and-longtime-civil-servant-to-lead-district-6/">past struggles with addiction</a> and his stated determination to tackle the drug overdose crisis currently wreaking havoc in SoMa and the Tenderloin.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>She also stressed their shared perspective on the concerns of District 6 residents, which they’ve both heard repeatedly: Conditions on the streets, and “public safety, public safety, and public safety.”&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>She also stressed their shared perspective on the concerns of District 6 residents, which they’ve both heard repeatedly: Conditions on the streets, and “public safety, public safety, and public safety.”&nbsp;</li></ul>

Preston then proceeded to grill the mayor on—what else?—housing.&nbsp;

Preston then proceeded to grill the mayor on—what else?—housing.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The District 5 Supervisor has pressed Breed’s office on a number of housing issues, including development of supportive housing for<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/preston-questions-housing-officials-on-730-stanyan-but-finds-limited-answers/"> homeless teens and young adults</a>, and disposition of revenue from Proposition I, a property transfer tax approved by voters in 2020. Preston and supporters sought for those revenues to be earmarked for new “social housing” programs.</li></ul>

<ul><li>The District 5 Supervisor has pressed Breed’s office on a number of housing issues, including development of supportive housing for<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/preston-questions-housing-officials-on-730-stanyan-but-finds-limited-answers/"> homeless teens and young adults</a>, and disposition of revenue from Proposition I, a property transfer tax approved by voters in 2020. Preston and supporters sought for those revenues to be earmarked for new “social housing” programs.</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>During this session however, he asked the mayor whether she would commit to breaking ground on an affordable housing project at Hayes Valley’s Parcel K, currently home of the PROXY art space, within three years. Preston said that he had been making inquiries to the Mayor’s Office of Housing for months on the matter, but had received no response. Mayor Breed responded that she was not familiar enough with the situation to provide an answer but would follow up, reiterating her commitment to affordable housing and noting several projects as “moving forward.”</li></ul>

<ul><li>During this session however, he asked the mayor whether she would commit to breaking ground on an affordable housing project at Hayes Valley’s Parcel K, currently home of the PROXY art space, within three years. Preston said that he had been making inquiries to the Mayor’s Office of Housing for months on the matter, but had received no response. Mayor Breed responded that she was not familiar enough with the situation to provide an answer but would follow up, reiterating her commitment to affordable housing and noting several projects as “moving forward.”</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Preston continued to press, calling the site “an important opportunity” that “lacks only the political will to go forward.” He then asked Mayor Breed if she would commit to at least issuing a Request for Proposals for the site within six months.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Preston continued to press, calling the site “an important opportunity” that “lacks only the political will to go forward.” He then asked Mayor Breed if she would commit to at least issuing a Request for Proposals for the site within six months.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Meanwhile, PROXY continues to operate on the site on a month-to-month basis, and<a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/why-parcel-k-in-hayes-valley-supports-an-outdoor-film-festival-instead-of-affordable-housing/"> remains popular</a> with adjacent residents and merchants. When she was District 5 Supervisor, Breed worked to extend their use of the space.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Meanwhile, PROXY continues to operate on the site on a month-to-month basis, and<a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/why-parcel-k-in-hayes-valley-supports-an-outdoor-film-festival-instead-of-affordable-housing/"> remains popular</a> with adjacent residents and merchants. When she was District 5 Supervisor, Breed worked to extend their use of the space.&nbsp;</li></ul>

New Business: More Housing &amp; Treasure Island Appointments

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-new-business-more-housing-treasure-island-appointments">New Business: More Housing &amp; Treasure Island Appointments</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-new-business-more-housing-treasure-island-appointments">New Business: More Housing &amp; Treasure Island Appointments</h2>

Speaking of affordable housing, supervisors approved the ground lease and financing for an affordable housing project at 180 Jones St. in the Tenderloin.

Speaking of affordable housing, supervisors approved the ground lease and financing for an affordable housing project at 180 Jones St. in the Tenderloin.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The 70-unit Below Market Rate rental housing project will be managed by Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation, with a lease term of 75 years and a 24-year option to extend. The financing is not to exceed $13.95 million.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>The 70-unit Below Market Rate rental housing project will be managed by Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation, with a lease term of 75 years and a 24-year option to extend. The financing is not to exceed $13.95 million.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Preston, as the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/video/take-three-minutes-to-finally-understand-redistricting/">Tenderloin’s new Supervisor</a>, declared he was “thrilled to support projects like this.”&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Preston, as the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/video/take-three-minutes-to-finally-understand-redistricting/">Tenderloin’s new Supervisor</a>, declared he was “thrilled to support projects like this.”&nbsp;</li></ul>

One growing venue for affordable housing is Treasure Island—which is in Supervisor Dorsey’s district. He and his colleagues approved reappointments of three directors to the board of the Treasure Island Development Authority, a hybrid nonprofit organization and agency that oversees development and infrastructure on the island. The reappointments are:

One growing venue for affordable housing is Treasure Island—which is in Supervisor Dorsey’s district. He and his colleagues approved reappointments of three directors to the board of the Treasure Island Development Authority, a hybrid nonprofit organization and agency that oversees development and infrastructure on the island. The reappointments are:

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>V. Fei Tsen, a developer and former Director of Real Estate for the Port of San Francisco;</li></ul>

<ul><li>V. Fei Tsen, a developer and former Director of Real Estate for the Port of San Francisco;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>LaShawndra Price-Breston, longtime resident activist on the island;</li></ul>

<ul><li>LaShawndra Price-Breston, longtime resident activist on the island;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Linda Richardson, environmental justice advocate and former Human Rights Commissioner.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Linda Richardson, environmental justice advocate and former Human Rights Commissioner.</li></ul>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-roll-call-dorsey-checks-in">Roll Call: Dorsey Checks In</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-roll-call-dorsey-checks-in">Roll Call: Dorsey Checks In</h2>

New District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey made initial remarks during Roll Call, telling his new colleagues how “grateful” he was to join the board and noting his shared history with many of the supervisors. For example, Dorsey worked with Board President and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton in the 2019 campaign to save the city’s ban on e-cigarettes.

New District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey made initial remarks during Roll Call, telling his new colleagues how “grateful” he was to join the board and noting his shared history with many of the supervisors. For example, Dorsey worked with Board President and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton in the 2019 campaign to save the city’s ban on e-cigarettes.

Acknowledging the contentious nature of his job, he also stressed that he will approach it from a position of mutual respect. “We all have a history together,” Dorsey said. “I’m honored to be here, I can’t wait to get to work.”

Acknowledging the contentious nature of his job, he also stressed that he will approach it from a position of mutual respect. “We all have a history together,” Dorsey said. “I’m honored to be here, I can’t wait to get to work.”

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Dorsey also introduced two items—a hearing request on barriers to city services for persons struggling with addiction, and a resolution asking Sacramento for more tax increment funding for affordable housing in Mission Bay.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Dorsey also introduced two items—a hearing request on barriers to city services for persons struggling with addiction, and a resolution asking Sacramento for more tax increment funding for affordable housing in Mission Bay.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Later on in Roll Call, District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani gave Dorsey an enthusiastic welcome, declaring herself “absolutely ready to work with you on all things recovery.”</li></ul>

<ul><li>Later on in Roll Call, District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani gave Dorsey an enthusiastic welcome, declaring herself “absolutely ready to work with you on all things recovery.”</li></ul>

Also at Roll Call:&nbsp;

Also at Roll Call:&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced a number of items, including a resolution urging continued support for legacy providers of HIV support services, noting they face possible cuts; another resolution urging modification to the landmark status for the Castro Theater to reflect current restoration work under review by the city; and a measure for the November ballot to renew the transportation sales tax.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced a number of items, including a resolution urging continued support for legacy providers of HIV support services, noting they face possible cuts; another resolution urging modification to the landmark status for the Castro Theater to reflect current restoration work under review by the city; and a measure for the November ballot to renew the transportation sales tax.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced items including a resolution and companion budget proposal for increased language access for services supporting victims of hate crimes, and a hearing on the impact of program and class cuts at City College of San Francisco, which were the subject of<a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/city-college-faculty-stage-sleep-in-ahead-of-layoff-vote/"> a “sleep-in”</a> last week by faculty and supporters, which ended in arrests.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced items including a resolution and companion budget proposal for increased language access for services supporting victims of hate crimes, and a hearing on the impact of program and class cuts at City College of San Francisco, which were the subject of<a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/city-college-faculty-stage-sleep-in-ahead-of-layoff-vote/"> a “sleep-in”</a> last week by faculty and supporters, which ended in arrests.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar introduced legislation to create a pilot program for graffiti abatement in commercial corridors, which would allow property owners and businesses to opt in to proactive removal of graffiti by the Department of Public Works to avoid fines.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar introduced legislation to create a pilot program for graffiti abatement in commercial corridors, which would allow property owners and businesses to opt in to proactive removal of graffiti by the Department of Public Works to avoid fines.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai introduced an ordinance amending the Planning Code to allow for the standing up of Vehicle Triage Centers in public parking lots citywide, noting the continued increased persons sheltering in vehicles around the city.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai introduced an ordinance amending the Planning Code to allow for the standing up of Vehicle Triage Centers in public parking lots citywide, noting the continued increased persons sheltering in vehicles around the city.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Public Comment: Redistricting is Bad, Part II: Electric Boogaloo

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-public-comment-redistricting-is-bad-part-ii-electric-boogaloo">Public Comment: Redistricting is Bad, Part II: Electric Boogaloo</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-public-comment-redistricting-is-bad-part-ii-electric-boogaloo">Public Comment: Redistricting is Bad, Part II: Electric Boogaloo</h2>

While supervisors breezed quickly through Tuesday’s agenda, an early recess was not to be, as public comment extended over two and a half hours.&nbsp;

While supervisors breezed quickly through Tuesday’s agenda, an early recess was not to be, as public comment extended over two and a half hours.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Most public commenters expressed their opposition to the recent<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/despite-political-drama-redistricting-may-yield-few-changes-in-november-election/"> redistricting process</a>, which<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/finally-a-map-redistricting-saga-over-for-now-after-divisive-vote/"> resulted in significant changes</a> to the city’s Supervisorial districts. Speakers ranged from George Wooding, a former president of the Coalition on San Francisco Neighborhoods, to former District 11 Supervisor John Avalos.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Most public commenters expressed their opposition to the recent<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/despite-political-drama-redistricting-may-yield-few-changes-in-november-election/"> redistricting process</a>, which<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/finally-a-map-redistricting-saga-over-for-now-after-divisive-vote/"> resulted in significant changes</a> to the city’s Supervisorial districts. Speakers ranged from George Wooding, a former president of the Coalition on San Francisco Neighborhoods, to former District 11 Supervisor John Avalos.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Many of these speakers supported placing the “Community Unity Map,” a redistricting map proposed by the progressive group San Francisco Rising and aggressively lobbied for during the process, on the November ballot.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Many of these speakers supported placing the “Community Unity Map,” a redistricting map proposed by the progressive group San Francisco Rising and aggressively lobbied for during the process, on the November ballot.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Others spoke in support of the recent redistricting process.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Others spoke in support of the recent redistricting process.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Tuesday’s meeting adjourned after a 90 minute closed session to confer with labor negotiators to discuss city employee raises, as part of budget and salary ordinances currently being submitted. If you want to see the recently submitted budgets for selected departments, <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=10862828&amp;GUID=43043182-5769-4270-B985-75A673161D24">click here</a>. The second budget and salary ordinance for remaining departments will be submitted in June.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday’s meeting adjourned after a 90 minute closed session to confer with labor negotiators to discuss city employee raises, as part of budget and salary ordinances currently being submitted. If you want to see the recently submitted budgets for selected departments, <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=10862828&amp;GUID=43043182-5769-4270-B985-75A673161D24">click here</a>. The second budget and salary ordinance for remaining departments will be submitted in June.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Board of Supes in 4 mins: Mr. Dorsey goes to City Hall, Preston pesters Breed on housing

Kevin Truong

Mayor London Breed and more than two dozen other big city mayors <a href="https://media-cdn.getbento.com/accounts/cf190ba55959ba5052ae23ba6d98e6de/media/ZG2sN6DTCqdSqPlZ9llO_IRC_MayorLetter.pdf?">signed a letter</a> from the Independent Restaurant Coalition urging congressional leaders to help revive a critical lifeline for struggling restaurants.&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed and more than two dozen other big city mayors <a href="https://media-cdn.getbento.com/accounts/cf190ba55959ba5052ae23ba6d98e6de/media/ZG2sN6DTCqdSqPlZ9llO_IRC_MayorLetter.pdf?">signed a letter</a> from the Independent Restaurant Coalition urging congressional leaders to help revive a critical lifeline for struggling restaurants.&nbsp;

Launched in May, the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund provided grants of up to $10 million to qualifying businesses. But the enormous demand for the program depleted these funds within three weeks after money was doled out to some 101,000 businesses, leaving around 177,000 applicants in the lurch.&nbsp;

Launched in May, the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund provided grants of up to $10 million to qualifying businesses. But the enormous demand for the program depleted these funds within three weeks after money was doled out to some 101,000 businesses, leaving around 177,000 applicants in the lurch.&nbsp;

Although the fund was supposed to prioritize underserved groups like businesses owned by women and racial minorities, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/14/business/restaurant-relief-fund-covid-sba.html">a legal challenge</a> from opponents to the rule meant thousands of these applicants had their grants rescinded.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Although the fund was supposed to prioritize underserved groups like businesses owned by women and racial minorities, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/14/business/restaurant-relief-fund-covid-sba.html">a legal challenge</a> from opponents to the rule meant thousands of these applicants had their grants rescinded.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Independent Restaurant Coalition found that 86% of independent restaurants and bars that didn’t receive grants during the first run of relief are at permanent risk of closure, according to the letter. The coalition notes that more than 90,000 restaurants have closed and the industry has lost over $280 billion during the pandemic.

The Independent Restaurant Coalition found that 86% of independent restaurants and bars that didn’t receive grants during the first run of relief are at permanent risk of closure, according to the letter. The coalition notes that more than 90,000 restaurants have closed and the industry has lost over $280 billion during the pandemic.

Political momentum for replenishing the fund waned as the national economic situation improved with a decline in Covid-19 cases. However, the surge in cases, staff shortages and closures due to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/omicron-booster-shot-requirement-covid-19-zuni-cafe-cassava/">Omicron variant</a> have underscored the need for additional aid. The letter also cites cost increases in core ingredients like beef, grain and cooking oil as an additional challenge for restaurants.&nbsp;

Political momentum for replenishing the fund waned as the national economic situation improved with a decline in Covid-19 cases. However, the surge in cases, staff shortages and closures due to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/omicron-booster-shot-requirement-covid-19-zuni-cafe-cassava/">Omicron variant</a> have underscored the need for additional aid. The letter also cites cost increases in core ingredients like beef, grain and cooking oil as an additional challenge for restaurants.&nbsp;

Laurie Thomas, the executive director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association and a member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition, said she’s convinced of the need for replenishing the fund.

Laurie Thomas, the executive director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association and a member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition, said she’s convinced of the need for replenishing the fund.

A restaurant employee at Frisco Fried waits for customers on July 16, 2021. | Camille Cohen

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Bayview-33-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23933"/><figcaption>A restaurant employee at Frisco Fried waits for customers on July 16, 2021. | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Bayview-33-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23933"/><figcaption>A restaurant employee at Frisco Fried waits for customers on July 16, 2021. | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

“It’s critical,” Thomas said. “Especially with Omicron and the dismal way [Quarter 1] is shaping up for so many restaurants, particularly those located downtown.”

“It’s critical,” Thomas said. “Especially with Omicron and the dismal way [Quarter 1] is shaping up for so many restaurants, particularly those located downtown.”

A number of efforts from federal lawmakers to replenish the fund have stalled, but senators Ben Cardin, D-Maryland, and Roger Wicker, R-Mississippi, are reportedly working on another relief package that revives their previous effort to put additional money into the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

A number of efforts from federal lawmakers to replenish the fund have stalled, but senators Ben Cardin, D-Maryland, and Roger Wicker, R-Mississippi, are reportedly working on another relief package that revives their previous effort to put additional money into the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

“The restaurant money is a fairness issue. Some restaurants got it and others did not,” Cardin <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-01-05/u-s-senators-float-new-covid-relief-for-restaurant-industry">told Bloomberg</a>. “We started with restaurants but we are prepared to expand it if there is sufficient support.”

“The restaurant money is a fairness issue. Some restaurants got it and others did not,” Cardin <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-01-05/u-s-senators-float-new-covid-relief-for-restaurant-industry">told Bloomberg</a>. “We started with restaurants but we are prepared to expand it if there is sufficient support.”

With the expiration of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, and the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection and Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs, local relief funds have attempted to make up some of the gap, but demand remains enormous.&nbsp;

With the expiration of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, and the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection and Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs, local relief funds have attempted to make up some of the gap, but demand remains enormous.&nbsp;

Case in point, in December a $2 million pilot program spearheaded by San Francisco Supervisor Ahsha Safai aimed to provide grants up to $35,000 for qualifying businesses to cover commercial back rent.&nbsp;

Case in point, in December a $2 million pilot program spearheaded by San Francisco Supervisor Ahsha Safai aimed to provide grants up to $35,000 for qualifying businesses to cover commercial back rent.&nbsp;

But with San Francisco commercial tenants estimated to owe up to $600 million in overdue rent, simple math shows more assistance will likely be necessary to keep local businesses on stable footing.  

But with San Francisco commercial tenants estimated to owe up to $600 million in overdue rent, simple math shows more assistance will likely be necessary to keep local businesses on stable footing.

David Nayfeld, the chef-owner of Che Fico in the NoPa neighborhood and a board member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition, called the need for replenishing the fund a “life or death” issue for the industry.

David Nayfeld, the chef-owner of Che Fico in the NoPa neighborhood and a board member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition, called the need for replenishing the fund a “life or death” issue for the industry.

“We were adamant that we needed $120 billion, they gave us $28.5 billion and we knew the entire time that it wasn’t going to be enough. But the messaging was this was going to be a down payment,” Nayfeld said. “Well in the meantime, many more restaurants have closed, and many more will continue to close.”

“We were adamant that we needed $120 billion, they gave us $28.5 billion and we knew the entire time that it wasn’t going to be enough. But the messaging was this was going to be a down payment,” Nayfeld said. “Well in the meantime, many more restaurants have closed, and many more will continue to close.”

Nayfeld said the need for the fund has been made more acute by “across the board” price increases and the costs shouldered by businesses to keep their employees safe from pandemic. Last month alone he spent more than $5,000 on Covid tests for his employees. 

Nayfeld said the need for the fund has been made more acute by “across the board” price increases and the costs shouldered by businesses to keep their employees safe from pandemic. Last month alone he spent more than $5,000 on Covid tests for his employees.

Nayfeld pointed to the broad bipartisan support that the restaurant aid bill has received previously as proof of the political will behind the effort. He added that he’s unsatisfied with the work that the Biden Administration has done in making small businesses a priority in the economic recovery.  

Nayfeld pointed to the broad bipartisan support that the restaurant aid bill has received previously as proof of the political will behind the effort. He added that he’s unsatisfied with the work that the Biden Administration has done in making small businesses a priority in the economic recovery.

“A lot of us are making the decision right now, is it worth it to keep going?” Nayfeld said. “If we don’t get what we need from the fund, you’re going to see tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of restaurants go dark permanently and that means millions of jobs.”

“A lot of us are making the decision right now, is it worth it to keep going?” Nayfeld said. “If we don’t get what we need from the fund, you’re going to see tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of restaurants go dark permanently and that means millions of jobs.”

Pandemic puts SF restaurants on the ropes. Mayor London Breed joins coalition calling on Congress to extend lifeline

At over eight and a half hours, the <a href="https://sfbos.org/">Board of Supervisors</a> meeting Tuesday touched the bases, from tackling the ongoing response to the Tenderloin overdose crisis and passing legislation to make it harder to develop microunits to an earful of comments on other issues.

At over eight and a half hours, the <a href="https://sfbos.org/">Board of Supervisors</a> meeting Tuesday touched the bases, from tackling the ongoing response to the Tenderloin overdose crisis and passing legislation to make it harder to develop microunits to an earful of comments on other issues.

The Evolving Tenderloin Emergency Response

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-evolving-tenderloin-emergency-response">The Evolving Tenderloin Emergency Response</h2>

<h2 id="h-the-evolving-tenderloin-emergency-response">The Evolving Tenderloin Emergency Response</h2>

The board held another hearing on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/emergency-linkage-tenderloin/">Mayor London Breed’s emergency declaration on crime and drug overdoses</a> in the Tenderloin, as the city’s response has come to a turning point.&nbsp;

The board held another hearing on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/emergency-linkage-tenderloin/">Mayor London Breed’s emergency declaration on crime and drug overdoses</a> in the Tenderloin, as the city’s response has come to a turning point.&nbsp;

The declaration expires Mar. 17, but the mayor filed a supplement enabling continued employment of disaster service workers at the linkage center—for a limited time. This will enable an orderly transition to regularly assigned personnel taking over that work, according to a spokesperson for Mayor Breed.&nbsp;

The declaration expires Mar. 17, but the mayor filed a supplement enabling continued employment of disaster service workers at the linkage center—for a limited time. This will enable an orderly transition to regularly assigned personnel taking over that work, according to a spokesperson for Mayor Breed.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, some supervisors responded to a false perception that the change meant operations under the declaration would end.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, some supervisors responded to a false perception that the change meant operations under the declaration would end.&nbsp;

Supervisor Matt Haney, whose District 6 includes the Tenderloin, thanked Mayor Breed for the proclamation but added that the Tenderloin “was clearly still in a state of public health emergency.”&nbsp;

Supervisor Matt Haney, whose District 6 includes the Tenderloin, thanked Mayor Breed for the proclamation but added that the Tenderloin “was clearly still in a state of public health emergency.”&nbsp;

“If we are ending the emergency, that’s not something I support. We are still in as much of an emergency as we were three months ago,” Haney said, citing continued concerns over open-air drug dealing and other issues. He added that “a lot of work has been accomplished that could not have been done without the declaration.”&nbsp;

“If we are ending the emergency, that’s not something I support. We are still in as much of an emergency as we were three months ago,” Haney said, citing continued concerns over open-air drug dealing and other issues. He added that “a lot of work has been accomplished that could not have been done without the declaration.”&nbsp;

Supervisor Ahsha Safai echoed Haney’s concerns and expressed a desire for a greater police presence along the lines of what was deployed at Union Square in response to organized retail thefts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supervisor Ahsha Safai echoed Haney’s concerns and expressed a desire for a greater police presence along the lines of what was deployed at Union Square in response to organized retail thefts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Some three hours into the hearing, Department of Emergency Management Director Mary Ellen Carroll clarified the situation. “The Tenderloin Emergency Initiative is still ongoing,” she said.&nbsp;

Some three hours into the hearing, Department of Emergency Management Director Mary Ellen Carroll clarified the situation. “The Tenderloin Emergency Initiative is still ongoing,” she said.&nbsp;

Carroll and other city staffers delivered a series of presentations outlining indicators of what has been accomplished so far, as well as next steps.&nbsp;

Carroll and other city staffers delivered a series of presentations outlining indicators of what has been accomplished so far, as well as next steps.&nbsp;

So far, the linkage center has had more than 15,000 visits, yielding over 3,000 service referrals. Thirty-five overdoses were reversed thanks to Narcan. Hours are expanding, with a goal of 24/7 operations, and the center now provides three hot meals a day. On the personnel side, the Department of Public Health has completed 80% of its staffing goals and expects to reach 100% by month’s end.&nbsp;

So far, the linkage center has had more than 15,000 visits, yielding over 3,000 service referrals. Thirty-five overdoses were reversed thanks to Narcan. Hours are expanding, with a goal of 24/7 operations, and the center now provides three hot meals a day. On the personnel side, the Department of Public Health has completed 80% of its staffing goals and expects to reach 100% by month’s end.&nbsp;

Supervisors, nevertheless, wanted more information. Safai noted that metrics were still more about processes than outcomes. Others focused on a lack of more tangible results.&nbsp;

Supervisors, nevertheless, wanted more information. Safai noted that metrics were still more about processes than outcomes. Others focused on a lack of more tangible results.&nbsp;

“Something is not working, but not for the lack of trying,” said Supervisor Hillary Ronen, whose District 9 has experienced more open-air drug dealing and related incidents than other areas of the city. Department heads cited lag time in obtaining relevant metrics as one issue in the response.&nbsp;

“Something is not working, but not for the lack of trying,” said Supervisor Hillary Ronen, whose District 9 has experienced more open-air drug dealing and related incidents than other areas of the city. Department heads cited lag time in obtaining relevant metrics as one issue in the response.&nbsp;

Supervisor Catherine Stefani expressed continued concerns over a lack of abstinence-based solutions at the linkage center, which prompted staffers to point out that a “sober living room” facility would soon be made available.&nbsp;

Supervisor Catherine Stefani expressed continued concerns over a lack of abstinence-based solutions at the linkage center, which prompted staffers to point out that a “sober living room” facility would soon be made available.&nbsp;

Superior Dean Preston focused on the role of police. During an earlier discussion it was revealed that an increase in police presence in the Tenderloin is on its way—using existing funds not related to the emergency declaration. Carroll&nbsp; said that input from neighborhood outreach showed residents have been asking for more police. Preston continued to criticize the move, noting reports of significant increases in use of force by police during the emergency, as more than 70% of arrests have targeted people of color.&nbsp;

Superior Dean Preston focused on the role of police. During an earlier discussion it was revealed that an increase in police presence in the Tenderloin is on its way—using existing funds not related to the emergency declaration. Carroll&nbsp; said that input from neighborhood outreach showed residents have been asking for more police. Preston continued to criticize the move, noting reports of significant increases in use of force by police during the emergency, as more than 70% of arrests have targeted people of color.&nbsp;

Mayor Breed’s declaration was referred to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee to provide continued oversight.

Mayor Breed’s declaration was referred to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee to provide continued oversight.

Housing:&nbsp; Microunits vs. SROs, and more&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Housing:&nbsp; Microunits vs. SROs, and more&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Housing:&nbsp; Microunits vs. SROs, and more&nbsp;</h2>

Concerns over “microunit” housing, such as 450 O’Farrell St., now the subject of a<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/san-francisco-scrambles-to-prep-for-lawsuits-after-rejecting-800-new-housing-units/"> lawsuit</a> against the city, prompted Supervisor Aaron Peskin to introduce two bills, one of which passed unanimously today.&nbsp;

Concerns over “microunit” housing, such as 450 O’Farrell St., now the subject of a<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/san-francisco-scrambles-to-prep-for-lawsuits-after-rejecting-800-new-housing-units/"> lawsuit</a> against the city, prompted Supervisor Aaron Peskin to introduce two bills, one of which passed unanimously today.&nbsp;

The bill redefines “group housing,” which up until now had allowed for the development of small efficiency apartments, including “microunits.” Peskin maintains this incentivizes conversion of&nbsp; low-income Single Room Occupancy (SRO) hotel housing. He reiterated comments made&nbsp; at Land Use Committee, describing the former definition as “muddy and confusing.”

The bill redefines “group housing,” which up until now had allowed for the development of small efficiency apartments, including “microunits.” Peskin maintains this incentivizes conversion of&nbsp; low-income Single Room Occupancy (SRO) hotel housing. He reiterated comments made&nbsp; at Land Use Committee, describing the former definition as “muddy and confusing.”

The new definition is similar to dormitory housing, replacing a provision for limited kitchen facilities in individual units with group kitchen facilities for every 15 units, among other changes. Peskin cited work by the Planning Department, as well as research on best practices for group housing by the California College of the Arts, as justifying the changes.&nbsp;

The new definition is similar to dormitory housing, replacing a provision for limited kitchen facilities in individual units with group kitchen facilities for every 15 units, among other changes. Peskin cited work by the Planning Department, as well as research on best practices for group housing by the California College of the Arts, as justifying the changes.&nbsp;

Trailing legislation for this item banning group housing in the Tenderloin and Chinatown will likely be heard by the full board next week.&nbsp;

Trailing legislation for this item banning group housing in the Tenderloin and Chinatown will likely be heard by the full board next week.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Parole for Parklets</h2>

<h2>Parole for Parklets</h2>

Another Peskin bill giving businesses <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/parklets-shared-spaces-public-access-restauarants/">more time</a> to bring parklets into compliance with the new Permanent Shared Spaces program also passed unanimously. Parklets out of code—apart from major issues such as disabled access—won&#8217;t be fined until next April.&nbsp;

Another Peskin bill giving businesses <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/parklets-shared-spaces-public-access-restauarants/">more time</a> to bring parklets into compliance with the new Permanent Shared Spaces program also passed unanimously. Parklets out of code—apart from major issues such as disabled access—won't be fined until next April.&nbsp;

Another Peskin bill giving businesses <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/parklets-shared-spaces-public-access-restauarants/">more time</a> to bring parklets into compliance with the new Permanent Shared Spaces program also passed unanimously. Parklets out of code—apart from major issues such as disabled access—won&#8217;t be fined until next April.&nbsp;

Before the vote, Peskin said the ordinance would “offer more certainty to small businesses” currently transitioning to the permanent program. He noted that the city will reach out to permit holders to work toward full compliance by 2023.

Before the vote, Peskin said the ordinance would “offer more certainty to small businesses” currently transitioning to the permanent program. He noted that the city will reach out to permit holders to work toward full compliance by 2023.

Mayor’s JFK Drive Ordinance&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mayor’s JFK Drive Ordinance&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Mayor’s JFK Drive Ordinance&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier Tuesday, Mayor Breed introduced an ordinance to keep JFK Drive<a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/mayor-floats-bill-to-make-car-free-jfk-permanent-but-its-fate-at-the-board-is-uncertain/"> in Golden Gate Park car-free</a>. Callers in support dominated the over hour-long public comment period at Tuesday&#8217;s meeting.

Earlier Tuesday, Mayor Breed introduced an ordinance to keep JFK Drive<a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/mayor-floats-bill-to-make-car-free-jfk-permanent-but-its-fate-at-the-board-is-uncertain/"> in Golden Gate Park car-free</a>. Callers in support dominated the over hour-long public comment period at Tuesday's meeting.

Earlier Tuesday, Mayor Breed introduced an ordinance to keep JFK Drive<a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/mayor-floats-bill-to-make-car-free-jfk-permanent-but-its-fate-at-the-board-is-uncertain/"> in Golden Gate Park car-free</a>. Callers in support dominated the over hour-long public comment period at Tuesday&#8217;s meeting.

Todd David, of the Housing Action Coalition, joined a return to in-person public comment in the board chambers to thank supervisors for opposing a bill from Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Palo Alto) that would exempt housing created under the state’s Density Bonus Law from affordable housing impact fees.&nbsp;

Todd David, of the Housing Action Coalition, joined a return to in-person public comment in the board chambers to thank supervisors for opposing a bill from Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Palo Alto) that would exempt housing created under the state’s Density Bonus Law from affordable housing impact fees.&nbsp;

“Your opposition will help to solidify support for our legislation,” David said.&nbsp;

“Your opposition will help to solidify support for our legislation,” David said.&nbsp;

Roll Call: Sex and Politics

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Roll Call: Sex and Politics</h2>

<h2>Roll Call: Sex and Politics</h2>

New business included a resolution by Supervisor Connie Chan condemning the use of what she called “racist imagery” in recent <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/da-chesa-boudin-recall-asian-american-leaders-condemn-racist-communist-style-poster/">political placards</a> appearing to appropriate Communist themes. Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced an ordinance that would create an Adult Sex Venue classification in the planning code in order to reduce restrictions on bathhouses and similar businesses in LGBTQ+ cultural districts.

New business included a resolution by Supervisor Connie Chan condemning the use of what she called “racist imagery” in recent <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/da-chesa-boudin-recall-asian-american-leaders-condemn-racist-communist-style-poster/">political placards</a> appearing to appropriate Communist themes. Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced an ordinance that would create an Adult Sex Venue classification in the planning code in order to reduce restrictions on bathhouses and similar businesses in LGBTQ+ cultural districts.

Board of Supervisors question evolution of Tenderloin emergency

Sarah Wright

A new city office dedicated to helping crime victims will be on the ballot in June of 2022.&nbsp;

A new city office dedicated to helping crime victims will be on the ballot in June of 2022.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Supervisor Catherine Stefani announced a ballot measure to establish a city office tasked with helping crime victims and witnesses, and to create a legally enshrined right to civil counsel for domestic violence survivors. Stefani said the initiative is motivated by crime trends in San Francisco and the barriers that domestic violence survivors face when seeking legal and other support.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Supervisor Catherine Stefani announced a ballot measure to establish a city office tasked with helping crime victims and witnesses, and to create a legally enshrined right to civil counsel for domestic violence survivors. Stefani said the initiative is motivated by crime trends in San Francisco and the barriers that domestic violence survivors face when seeking legal and other support.&nbsp;

“Too many survivors are forced to choose between economic security and their personal safety, especially when they do not have access to full-scope legal protection,” said Stefani, who represents District 2. “This new program will ensure that survivors of domestic violence will never again have to face these difficult choices alone.”

“Too many survivors are forced to choose between economic security and their personal safety, especially when they do not have access to full-scope legal protection,” said Stefani, who represents District 2. “This new program will ensure that survivors of domestic violence will never again have to face these difficult choices alone.”

Stefani’s proposal would create an office called the Office of Victim and Witness Rights—a non-law enforcement agency tasked with providing comprehensive support to all crime victims. Stefani told the SF Standard that should the initiative pass, the office could begin serving domestic violence victims immediately by partnering with Bay Area legal aid groups, but may take a year or longer to hire staff and fully define its scope.&nbsp;

Stefani’s proposal would create an office called the Office of Victim and Witness Rights—a non-law enforcement agency tasked with providing comprehensive support to all crime victims. Stefani told the SF Standard that should the initiative pass, the office could begin serving domestic violence victims immediately by partnering with Bay Area legal aid groups, but may take a year or longer to hire staff and fully define its scope.&nbsp;

In support of the ballot measure, District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney said the office could help crime victims navigate the many consequences of having been a victim or a witness to a crime—everything from a referral on where to get a broken window fixed to mental health care for trauma.&nbsp;

In support of the ballot measure, District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney said the office could help crime victims navigate the many consequences of having been a victim or a witness to a crime—everything from a referral on where to get a broken window fixed to mental health care for trauma.&nbsp;

“All of those things require assistance and support from our city,” Haney said. “No victim should be alone in this.”

“All of those things require assistance and support from our city,” Haney said. “No victim should be alone in this.”

Stefani said the details of the cost and structure of the office, who would lead it, and the full range of its services will be determined by budget discussions in 2022. Haney said at Tuesday’s press conference that as chair of the city’s budget committee, he is committed to funding the new office should the initiative pass. Voters will weigh in on the measure in a statewide primary scheduled for June 7, 2022.&nbsp;

Stefani said the details of the cost and structure of the office, who would lead it, and the full range of its services will be determined by budget discussions in 2022. Haney said at Tuesday’s press conference that as chair of the city’s budget committee, he is committed to funding the new office should the initiative pass. Voters will weigh in on the measure in a statewide primary scheduled for June 7, 2022.&nbsp;

The proposed office would be entirely separate from the police department and District Attorney’s office, a move that Stefani said she hopes will encourage more crime victims to seek out help. Citing concern over domestic violence reporting and prosecution rates, Stefani earlier <a href="https://sfstandard.com/supes-require-domestic-violence-data-reporting-from-police-d-a/">introduced a local ordinance</a> to require regular reporting of domestic violence cases by police and prosecutors.&nbsp;

The proposed office would be entirely separate from the police department and District Attorney’s office, a move that Stefani said she hopes will encourage more crime victims to seek out help. Citing concern over domestic violence reporting and prosecution rates, Stefani earlier <a href="https://sfstandard.com/supes-require-domestic-violence-data-reporting-from-police-d-a/">introduced a local ordinance</a> to require regular reporting of domestic violence cases by police and prosecutors.&nbsp;

Endorsing the initiative, District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safaí said creating an office independent of local police will be critical.

Endorsing the initiative, District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safaí said creating an office independent of local police will be critical.

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