Annie Gaus

The approval of two bills this week marked a turning point in housing policy statewide, though any effect on San Francisco’s housing landscape is likely to be slow.

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<p>The approval of two bills this week marked a turning point in housing policy statewide, though any effect on San Francisco’s housing landscape is likely to be slow.</p>

The California State Assembly passed two high-profile housing bills this week, SB 9 and SB 10, that will together make it easier to build multi-unit housing on more swaths of land in the state.&nbsp;

<p>The California State Assembly passed two high-profile housing bills this week, SB 9 and SB 10, that will together make it easier to build multi-unit housing on more swaths of land in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB9">SB 9</a>, which will advance to the State Senate for final approval in September, effectively ends restrictive single-family zoning in the state by allowing duplexes on lots otherwise reserved for single homes. That bill also allows owners to subdivide their lots if they meet a certain size threshold, making it possible to build four units on a single lot.&nbsp;

<p><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB9">SB 9</a>, which will advance to the State Senate for final approval in September, effectively ends restrictive single-family zoning in the state by allowing duplexes on lots otherwise reserved for single homes. That bill also allows owners to subdivide their lots if they meet a certain size threshold, making it possible to build four units on a single lot.&nbsp;</p>

“In San Francisco, the average prototypical lot is around 2500 square feet. You’d be legally allowed to split it in two, meaning you could have two duplexes or four total units,” said Todd David, executive director of Housing Action Coalition. 

<p>“In San Francisco, the average prototypical lot is around 2500 square feet. You’d be legally allowed to split it in two, meaning you could have two duplexes or four total units,” said Todd David, executive director of Housing Action Coalition. </p>

Meanwhile, <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB10">SB 10</a> would let local governments rezone parcels up to 10 units with no environmental review. Local governments must opt into the law, but those that do will be able to quickly rezone swaths of land without triggering long and costly reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act by default (CEQA).&nbsp;

<p>Meanwhile, <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB10">SB 10</a> would let local governments rezone parcels up to 10 units with no environmental review. Local governments must opt into the law, but those that do will be able to quickly rezone swaths of land without triggering long and costly reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act by default (CEQA).&nbsp;</p>

“It will give the Mayor and Board of Supervisors much more flexibility in rezoning for small multi-unit housing,” said Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), who introduced SB 10. “Those rezonings could take many years, so it could be a very powerful tool for any effort to rezone broader swaths of San Francisco.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>“It will give the Mayor and Board of Supervisors much more flexibility in rezoning for small multi-unit housing,” said Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), who introduced SB 10. “Those rezonings could take many years, so it could be a very powerful tool for any effort to rezone broader swaths of San Francisco.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

If Governor Gavin Newsom ultimately signs both bills, they would be enacted next January alongside efforts by local policymakers to pave the way for more housing, particularly in areas of the city with few apartments.&nbsp;

<p>If Governor Gavin Newsom ultimately signs both bills, they would be enacted next January alongside efforts by local policymakers to pave the way for more housing, particularly in areas of the city with few apartments.&nbsp;</p>

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Neither SB 9 nor SB 10 are likely, by themselves, to produce a major groundswell of housing production.&nbsp;

<p>Neither SB 9 nor SB 10 are likely, by themselves, to produce a major groundswell of housing production.&nbsp;</p>

According to the Terner Center for Housing Innovation at UC Berkeley, San Francisco has about <a href="https://ternercenter.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/SB-9-Brief-July-2021-Final.pdf">6,500 housing parcels</a> for which SB 9 could increase the number of “market-feasible” units. However, feasibility does not guarantee that any future development would take place, and researchers at the Terner Center concluded that the bill is unlikely to result in much demolition of existing housing stock.

<p>According to the Terner Center for Housing Innovation at UC Berkeley, San Francisco has about <a href="https://ternercenter.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/SB-9-Brief-July-2021-Final.pdf">6,500 housing parcels</a> for which SB 9 could increase the number of “market-feasible” units. However, feasibility does not guarantee that any future development would take place, and researchers at the Terner Center concluded that the bill is unlikely to result in much demolition of existing housing stock.</p>

“The question really becomes how many empty lots are there,” added David. “There is no reason for someone not to split an empty lot, and I think it would be in the city’s interest to encourage that.”

<p>“The question really becomes how many empty lots are there,” added David. “There is no reason for someone not to split an empty lot, and I think it would be in the city’s interest to encourage that.”</p>

If the city were to opt into SB 10, it could much more easily rezone chunks of land for denser housing. The Board of Supervisors may instead opt to advance their own proposals for housing production, at least for the immediate future.&nbsp;

<p>If the city were to opt into SB 10, it could much more easily rezone chunks of land for denser housing. The Board of Supervisors may instead opt to advance their own proposals for housing production, at least for the immediate future.&nbsp;</p>

Under a state mandate called the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/our-work/housing/rhna-regional-housing-needs-allocation">Regional Housing Needs Allocation</a> (RHNA), San Francisco will likely be required <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2021-05/ABAG_2023-2031_Draft_RHNA_Plan.pdf">to build about 82,000</a> new housing units between 2023 and 2031. That’s a significant increase compared to the city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/supervisors-to-consider-citywide-fourplex-expansion-next-year/">pace of housing production</a> in recent years.&nbsp;

<p>Under a state mandate called the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/our-work/housing/rhna-regional-housing-needs-allocation">Regional Housing Needs Allocation</a> (RHNA), San Francisco will likely be required <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2021-05/ABAG_2023-2031_Draft_RHNA_Plan.pdf">to build about 82,000</a> new housing units between 2023 and 2031. That’s a significant increase compared to the city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/supervisors-to-consider-citywide-fourplex-expansion-next-year/">pace of housing production</a> in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

The Planning Department is tasked with writing a so-called Housing Element, or a citywide plan to meet the expected mandate of 82,000 housing units by 2031. The department kicked off that process <a href="https://www.sfhousingelement.org/summary-draft-needs-assessment-housing-element-2022-update">in April</a>, and will produce a final plan next year.

<p>The Planning Department is tasked with writing a so-called Housing Element, or a citywide plan to meet the expected mandate of 82,000 housing units by 2031. The department kicked off that process <a href="https://www.sfhousingelement.org/summary-draft-needs-assessment-housing-element-2022-update">in April</a>, and will produce a final plan next year.</p>

“Rezoning is planting seeds for the future—it’s not immediate production, but it’s creating the foundation,” added Wiener. “Over an eight-year cycle, if the Board of Supervisors were to do a rezoning now, it would help in terms of RHNA.”&nbsp;

<p>“Rezoning is planting seeds for the future—it’s not immediate production, but it’s creating the foundation,” added Wiener. “Over an eight-year cycle, if the Board of Supervisors were to do a rezoning now, it would help in terms of RHNA.”&nbsp;</p>

In the coming months, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors is expected to consider a handful of new ordinances intended to boost housing capacity.&nbsp;

<p>In the coming months, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors is expected to consider a handful of new ordinances intended to boost housing capacity.&nbsp;</p>

In July, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced a proposal that would allow the construction of fourplexes citywide. It’s an amped-up version of an earlier proposal by Mandelman to allow fourplex construction on corner lots, but the newer plan could facilitate more “equitable” distribution of multifamily housing across the city, according to Mandelman.&nbsp;

<p>In July, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced a proposal that would allow the construction of fourplexes citywide. It’s an amped-up version of an earlier proposal by Mandelman to allow fourplex construction on corner lots, but the newer plan could facilitate more “equitable” distribution of multifamily housing across the city, according to Mandelman.&nbsp;</p>

Fourplexes are “a small piece” of San Francisco’s broader housing needs, Mandelman added.

<p>Fourplexes are “a small piece” of San Francisco’s broader housing needs, Mandelman added.</p>

“By the standards of the past, this is a relatively significant upzoning,” he <a href="https://sfstandard.com/supervisors-to-consider-citywide-fourplex-expansion-next-year/">told Here/Say</a> in July. “Compared to what the moves that we’re going to need to make to meet our obligation…it’s relatively modest.”

<p>“By the standards of the past, this is a relatively significant upzoning,” he <a href="https://sfstandard.com/supervisors-to-consider-citywide-fourplex-expansion-next-year/">told Here/Say</a> in July. “Compared to what the moves that we’re going to need to make to meet our obligation…it’s relatively modest.”</p>

Two state bills could help chip away at San Francisco’s housing shortage—gradually

Josh Koehn

In the coming months, Mayor London Breed and other city officials are expected to announce the opening of Maceo May, a six-story, 105-unit <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/500-units-of-affordable-housing-san-francisco-delayed-silicon-valley-bank/">affordable housing development</a> specifically designed for formerly homeless veterans and families on Treasure Island.

<p>In the coming months, Mayor London Breed and other city officials are expected to announce the opening of Maceo May, a six-story, 105-unit <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/500-units-of-affordable-housing-san-francisco-delayed-silicon-valley-bank/">affordable housing development</a> specifically designed for formerly homeless veterans and families on Treasure Island.</p>

The project is one of many currently underway on the man-made island, which has essentially become a 400-acre construction zone. However, when it comes time for city officials to cut the ribbon on Maceo May, one notable group won’t be in attendance: the San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council.&nbsp;

<p>The project is one of many currently underway on the man-made island, which has essentially become a 400-acre construction zone. However, when it comes time for city officials to cut the ribbon on Maceo May, one notable group won’t be in attendance: the San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council.&nbsp;</p>

For years, the organization representing more than two dozen labor unions in San Francisco has been butting heads with Breed and other elected officials on how the city intends to meet its housing goals—and who should be doing that work. In the case of Maceo May, the Building Trades were essentially boxed out.

<p>For years, the organization representing more than two dozen labor unions in San Francisco has been butting heads with Breed and other elected officials on how the city intends to meet its housing goals—and who should be doing that work. In the case of Maceo May, the Building Trades were essentially boxed out.</p>

Mayor London Breed speaks at the Affordable Homes Now Rally in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday, June 16, 2022. | Eloïse Kelsey for The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HousingRally_EloiseKelsey_SFS_0014-2500x1729.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-151617"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Members of the Carpenters Local Union 22 listen to Mayor London Breed speak at the Affordable Homes Now Rally in the Tenderloin on June 16, 2022. | Eloïse Kelsey for The Standard</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HousingRally_EloiseKelsey_SFS_0014-2500x1729.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-151617"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Members of the Carpenters Local Union 22 listen to Mayor London Breed speak at the Affordable Homes Now Rally in the Tenderloin on June 16, 2022. | Eloïse Kelsey for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

The project instead relied on a unionized group of carpenters working out of <a href="https://factoryos.com/">Factory_OS</a>, a modular construction plant on Mare Island in Vallejo. What the prefabricated homes may lack in flash, they make up for in efficiency. Supporters of the assembly-line style of production—which includes almost every aspect of a build-out, from the plumbing and electrical to the flooring—say it can radically reduce the cost and duration of construction.

<p>The project instead relied on a unionized group of carpenters working out of <a href="https://factoryos.com/">Factory_OS</a>, a modular construction plant on Mare Island in Vallejo. What the prefabricated homes may lack in flash, they make up for in efficiency. Supporters of the assembly-line style of production—which includes almost every aspect of a build-out, from the plumbing and electrical to the flooring—say it can radically reduce the cost and duration of construction.</p>

San Francisco has an ambitious <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/what-to-know-about-sfs-plan-to-create-82000-new-homes/">state mandate to build 82,000 units of housing by 2031</a>, and Breed and pro-housing advocates see modular construction as an important avenue in reaching that lofty goal. But a war being waged on two fronts—one between the Building Trades and a coalition of carpenters, and the other between the Building Trades and City Hall—is threatening to derail that progress, with disputes on multiple issues boiling over into strongly worded letters and multimillion-dollar fights at the ballot box.

<p>San Francisco has an ambitious <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/what-to-know-about-sfs-plan-to-create-82000-new-homes/">state mandate to build 82,000 units of housing by 2031</a>, and Breed and pro-housing advocates see modular construction as an important avenue in reaching that lofty goal. But a war being waged on two fronts—one between the Building Trades and a coalition of carpenters, and the other between the Building Trades and City Hall—is threatening to derail that progress, with disputes on multiple issues boiling over into strongly worded letters and multimillion-dollar fights at the ballot box.</p>

To understand why that matters and what comes next, it might help to recall an act of God that occurred a year and a half ago.

<p>To understand why that matters and what comes next, it might help to recall an act of God that occurred a year and a half ago.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monsoon-on-treasure-island">Monsoon on Treasure Island</h2>


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<h2 id="h-monsoon-on-treasure-island">Monsoon on Treasure Island</h2>

In October 2021, a <a href="https://sfist.com/2021/10/24/strongest-storm-quarter-century-bomb-cylcone-northern-california-bay-area/">“bomb cyclone”</a> more powerful than any storm seen in the previous quarter-century drenched the Bay Area. An atmospheric river traversed across the Pacific Northwest, causing hundreds of millions of dollars of damage across the Left Coast.&nbsp;

<p>In October 2021, a <a href="https://sfist.com/2021/10/24/strongest-storm-quarter-century-bomb-cylcone-northern-california-bay-area/">“bomb cyclone”</a> more powerful than any storm seen in the previous quarter-century drenched the Bay Area. An atmospheric river traversed across the Pacific Northwest, causing hundreds of millions of dollars of damage across the Left Coast.&nbsp;</p>

Maceo May wasn’t spared. The storm’s heavy downpour and high-speed winds ravaged the development for one key reason: Maceo May didn’t come with a roof.&nbsp;

<p>Maceo May wasn’t spared. The storm’s heavy downpour and high-speed winds ravaged the development for one key reason: Maceo May didn’t come with a roof.&nbsp;</p>

The prefab project—built by members of the Northern California Carpenters Union at Factory_OS—was delivered topless to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/treasure-island-ferry-first-day-san-francisco/">Treasure Island</a>, with plans to complete roofing at a later stage in construction. Despite “round-the-clock staffing” to protect the project, city officials said the damage was substantial.&nbsp;

<p>The prefab project—built by members of the Northern California Carpenters Union at Factory_OS—was delivered topless to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/treasure-island-ferry-first-day-san-francisco/">Treasure Island</a>, with plans to complete roofing at a later stage in construction. Despite “round-the-clock staffing” to protect the project, city officials said the damage was substantial.&nbsp;</p>

“The project&#8217;s location on Treasure Island, in the middle of the Bay and subject to particularly high winds, led to extraordinary damages at this location,” Anne Stanley, a spokesperson for the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, said in an email. “Given that modular units are installed before the building’s finish materials or roof are built/installed, units are delivered covered in protective wrappings, but at least some of those wrappings had already been removed for installation.”

<p>“The project's location on Treasure Island, in the middle of the Bay and subject to particularly high winds, led to extraordinary damages at this location,” Anne Stanley, a spokesperson for the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, said in an email. “Given that modular units are installed before the building’s finish materials or roof are built/installed, units are delivered covered in protective wrappings, but at least some of those wrappings had already been removed for installation.”</p>

<p>“The project&#8217;s location on Treasure Island, in the middle of the Bay and subject to particularly high winds, led to extraordinary damages at this location,” Anne Stanley, a spokesperson for the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, said in an email. “Given that modular units are installed before the building’s finish materials or roof are built/installed, units are delivered covered in protective wrappings, but at least some of those wrappings had already been removed for installation.”</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-video"><video autoplay loop muted poster="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/SFS_PROJECT_VERSION.00_03_34_23.Still001.jpg" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MaceoMay04192023_INLINE.mp4" playsinline></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Maceo May modular housing development is seen on Treasure Island on April 18, 2023. | Paul Kuroda for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

The storm harmed nearly every aspect of Maceo May’s build-out, and the estimated cost to repair and complete the project ballooned by nearly $35 million, raising the total price tag to $110 million and delaying completion by more than six months.&nbsp;

<p>The storm harmed nearly every aspect of Maceo May’s build-out, and the estimated cost to repair and complete the project ballooned by nearly $35 million, raising the total price tag to $110 million and delaying completion by more than six months.&nbsp;</p>

The devastation was shocking, said Malcolm Yeung, the executive director of the Chinatown Community Development Center, which partnered with the nonprofit Swords to Plowshares to build Maceo May.

<p>The devastation was shocking, said Malcolm Yeung, the executive director of the Chinatown Community Development Center, which partnered with the nonprofit Swords to Plowshares to build Maceo May.</p>

“Did I have a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach when I heard the news? Yeah,” Yeung said. “Did my eyes pop out of my head? Yeah. I had to find them and put them back in my skull.”

<p>“Did I have a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach when I heard the news? Yeah,” Yeung said. “Did my eyes pop out of my head? Yeah. I had to find them and put them back in my skull.”</p>

San Francisco issued new loans to keep the project moving forward, but the extent of the damage and increase in costs have gone unreported until now. City officials expect all of Maceo May’s units to be leased by June.

<p>San Francisco issued new loans to keep the project moving forward, but the extent of the damage and increase in costs have gone unreported until now. City officials expect all of Maceo May’s units to be leased by June.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-s-got-skill">Who’s Got Skill?</h2>


<h2 id="h-who-s-got-skill">Who’s Got Skill?</h2>

According to leaders of the local Building Trades, the mistakes made at Maceo May are just one example of a larger trend in which local construction jobs are being shipped out of San Francisco to less-skilled workers, resulting in mistakes and additional costs that aren’t accounted for in bids.&nbsp;

<p>According to leaders of the local Building Trades, the mistakes made at Maceo May are just one example of a larger trend in which local construction jobs are being shipped out of San Francisco to less-skilled workers, resulting in mistakes and additional costs that aren’t accounted for in bids.&nbsp;</p>

John Dryden, a carpenter and framer, works on corridor walls at the Factory_OS facility in Vallejo, Calif., on Friday, July 26, 2019. The company builds modular housing in the Bay Area. | Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/INLINED4_MaceoMay04072023-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-151173"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">John Dryden, a carpenter and framer, works on corridor walls at the Factory_OS facility in Vallejo on July 26, 2019. | Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


Larry Mazzola, president of the Building Trades, has sent multiple letters to the mayor and supervisors calling out Factory_OS, accusing the city of using “smoke and mirrors” to avoid hiring properly skilled and trained San Franciscans and paying prevailing wages.

<p>Larry Mazzola, president of the Building Trades, has sent multiple letters to the mayor and supervisors calling out Factory_OS, accusing the city of using “smoke and mirrors” to avoid hiring properly skilled and trained San Franciscans and paying prevailing wages.</p>

In a letter from March 2021, Mazzola listed 14 bullet points worth of issues about a modular project at 833 Bryant St. in the South of Market area, noting numerous code violations. While the work of Building Trades’ members is inspected throughout the process of construction, Mazzola said, modular projects are delivered nearly complete, making it impossible to inspect issues like electrical wiring without opening up the walls.

<p>In a letter from March 2021, Mazzola listed 14 bullet points worth of issues about a modular project at 833 Bryant St. in the South of Market area, noting numerous code violations. While the work of Building Trades’ members is inspected throughout the process of construction, Mazzola said, modular projects are delivered nearly complete, making it impossible to inspect issues like electrical wiring without opening up the walls.</p>

“The carpenters go around telling everybody that it&#8217;s too expensive to build housing with union labor, and it’s completely false,” Mazzola told The Standard, citing his shop’s work on the <a href="https://homerisesf.org/properties/jazzie-collins-apartments/">Jazzie Collins Apartments</a>.

<p>“The carpenters go around telling everybody that it's too expensive to build housing with union labor, and it’s completely false,” Mazzola told The Standard, citing his shop’s work on the <a href="https://homerisesf.org/properties/jazzie-collins-apartments/">Jazzie Collins Apartments</a>.</p>

<p>“The carpenters go around telling everybody that it&#8217;s too expensive to build housing with union labor, and it’s completely false,” Mazzola told The Standard, citing his shop’s work on the <a href="https://homerisesf.org/properties/jazzie-collins-apartments/">Jazzie Collins Apartments</a>.</p>

Jay Bradshaw, executive secretary-treasurer of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, disputed that characterization, noting that the Carpenters Union has the most workers in residential construction, including affordable housing.

<p>Jay Bradshaw, executive secretary-treasurer of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, disputed that characterization, noting that the Carpenters Union has the most workers in residential construction, including affordable housing.</p>

“For Mazzola to make such a false and baseless statement should be an embarrassment to him,” Bradshaw said. “We have never made such a statement. He knows his statement is false and should be ashamed of himself.”

<p>“For Mazzola to make such a false and baseless statement should be an embarrassment to him,” Bradshaw said. “We have never made such a statement. He knows his statement is false and should be ashamed of himself.”</p>

John Dougherty, the business manager and financial secretary for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union No. 6, also has taken issue with Factory_OS, which employs about 400 carpenters under the umbrella of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union.

<p>John Dougherty, the business manager and financial secretary for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union No. 6, also has taken issue with Factory_OS, which employs about 400 carpenters under the umbrella of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union.</p>

“They&#8217;re taking electrical and performing it in-house, off-site for 21 bucks an hour,” Dougherty said. “It&#8217;s taking work opportunities for San Franciscans out of San Francisco.”&nbsp;

<p>“They're taking electrical and performing it in-house, off-site for 21 bucks an hour,” Dougherty said. “It's taking work opportunities for San Franciscans out of San Francisco.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They&#8217;re taking electrical and performing it in-house, off-site for 21 bucks an hour,” Dougherty said. “It&#8217;s taking work opportunities for San Franciscans out of San Francisco.”&nbsp;</p>

Four recent modular housing projects in San Francisco include: Maceo May; 833 Bryant St.; 410 China Basin St. in Mission Bay; and 1064 Mission St., a permanent supportive housing project also in SoMa.

<p>Four recent modular housing projects in San Francisco include: Maceo May; 833 Bryant St.; 410 China Basin St. in Mission Bay; and 1064 Mission St., a permanent supportive housing project also in SoMa.</p>

A 136-unit rental modular housing project takes place in the Bayview in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, September 28, 2015.  Construction for placing the modular units is on it's sixth day where the second floor of units is already three quarters placed. |  Liz Hafalia/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/INLINED1_MaceoMay04072023-2201x2500.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-151162"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A modular housing project gets installed in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco on Sept. 28, 2015. |  Liz Hafalia/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


The dispute between the SF Building Trades and carpenters came to a head in February, when the carpenters refused to sign a unity pledge with other laborers, leading to the union’s suspension. In turn, carpenters unions across Northern California pulled out of every other building trades council. They later joined the <a href="https://www.bayareacouncil.org/about-us/">Bay Area Council</a>, a business association that partners with YIMBYs and counts the region’s biggest companies among its members.

<p>The dispute between the SF Building Trades and carpenters came to a head in February, when the carpenters refused to sign a unity pledge with other laborers, leading to the union’s suspension. In turn, carpenters unions across Northern California pulled out of every other building trades council. They later joined the <a href="https://www.bayareacouncil.org/about-us/">Bay Area Council</a>, a business association that partners with YIMBYs and counts the region’s biggest companies among its members.</p>

The same month that storms hammered Maceo May, the local chapter for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers took a shot at modular housing with a video showing kitchen lights turning on when a worker tried to test the stove.

<p>The same month that storms hammered Maceo May, the local chapter for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers took a shot at modular housing with a video showing kitchen lights turning on when a worker tried to test the stove.</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/IBEW_Local_6/status/1448801382266408963?s=20
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What do you get when you try to outsource the jobs of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/skilledandtrained?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#skilledandtrained</a> workers? A repair job in the making. <br><br>Check this outsourcing FAIL paid for by your Tax $$$&#39;s, while local residents were unemployed.<br><br>The cooktop light switch is insultingly bad.<a href="https://twitter.com/IBEW_Local_6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IBEW_Local_6</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TradesSf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TradesSf</a> <a href="https://t.co/iqbdHrFrRm">pic.twitter.com/iqbdHrFrRm</a></p>&mdash; IBEW Local 6 (@IBEW_Local_6) <a href="https://twitter.com/IBEW_Local_6/status/1448801382266408963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Supervisor Connie Chan has entered the fray on behalf of the Building Trades, and she suggested in a phone interview that modular projects and other exceptions to local provisions are a slippery slope.

<p>Supervisor Connie Chan has entered the fray on behalf of the Building Trades, and she suggested in a phone interview that modular projects and other exceptions to local provisions are a slippery slope.</p>

“We are minimizing these long-standing values that we have, and I think that&#8217;s problematic,” Chan said.

<p>“We are minimizing these long-standing values that we have, and I think that's problematic,” Chan said.</p>

<p>“We are minimizing these long-standing values that we have, and I think that&#8217;s problematic,” Chan said.</p>

However, the mayor and pro-development advocates cite two major issues in giving the Building Trades the work it desires: First, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/confused-about-the-two-housing-ballot-measures-heres-what-to-know/">costs of projects skyrocket</a> when accounting for San Francisco unions’ prevailing wages; and second, there aren’t enough unionized laborers to meet San Francisco’s housing goals, let alone the entire state’s goal 2.5 million new units of housing.

<p>However, the mayor and pro-development advocates cite two major issues in giving the Building Trades the work it desires: First, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/confused-about-the-two-housing-ballot-measures-heres-what-to-know/">costs of projects skyrocket</a> when accounting for San Francisco unions’ prevailing wages; and second, there aren’t enough unionized laborers to meet San Francisco’s housing goals, let alone the entire state’s goal 2.5 million new units of housing.</p>

“Just to be clear, everyone agrees—[building] trades, carpenters and myself—we’d like to see more unionization of the residential construction workforce. We all share that goal,” state Sen. Scott Wiener told The Standard. “But the sad reality is that right now only about 9% of residential construction workers are unionized. So, when you leave out non-unionized construction workers, you’re leaving out more than 90% of these construction workers, many of whom are capable and skilled, they&#8217;re just not in a union or a union apprenticeship program.”

<p>“Just to be clear, everyone agrees—[building] trades, carpenters and myself—we’d like to see more unionization of the residential construction workforce. We all share that goal,” state Sen. Scott Wiener told The Standard. “But the sad reality is that right now only about 9% of residential construction workers are unionized. So, when you leave out non-unionized construction workers, you’re leaving out more than 90% of these construction workers, many of whom are capable and skilled, they're just not in a union or a union apprenticeship program.”</p>

<p>“Just to be clear, everyone agrees—[building] trades, carpenters and myself—we’d like to see more unionization of the residential construction workforce. We all share that goal,” state Sen. Scott Wiener told The Standard. “But the sad reality is that right now only about 9% of residential construction workers are unionized. So, when you leave out non-unionized construction workers, you’re leaving out more than 90% of these construction workers, many of whom are capable and skilled, they&#8217;re just not in a union or a union apprenticeship program.”</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-factory-fight">The Factory Fight</h2>


<h2 id="h-the-factory-fight">The Factory Fight</h2>

Fights between unions and City Hall officials are far from unique. But as the city scrambles to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/sf-housing-plan-passes-but-faces-tight-timeline-and-tough-road-to-implementation/">meet a daunting state mandate</a>, those fights could threaten efforts to speed up housing construction.

<p>Fights between unions and City Hall officials are far from unique. But as the city scrambles to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/sf-housing-plan-passes-but-faces-tight-timeline-and-tough-road-to-implementation/">meet a daunting state mandate</a>, those fights could threaten efforts to speed up housing construction.</p>

The exterior of a studio apartment built at the Factory_OS facility in Vallejo, Calif., photographed on Friday, July 26, 2019. The company builds modular housing in the Bay Area. | Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/INLINED2_MaceoMay04072023-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-151166"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The exterior of a studio apartment is built at the Factory_OS facility in Vallejo on July 26, 2019. | Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


Proposition D, Breed’s signature proposal to streamline housing approvals, fell short last November, in part, because the Building Trades tossed hundreds of thousands of dollars into a competing measure, Prop. E. Meanwhile, a political action committee for the Nor Cal Carpenters Union threw $69,000 into the mayor’s housing measure. Both ballot measures failed.

<p>Proposition D, Breed’s signature proposal to streamline housing approvals, fell short last November, in part, because the Building Trades tossed hundreds of thousands of dollars into a competing measure, Prop. E. Meanwhile, a political action committee for the Nor Cal Carpenters Union threw $69,000 into the mayor’s housing measure. Both ballot measures failed.</p>

“We wanted Prop. E to pass. We wouldn&#8217;t have put it on [the ballot] just to block Prop. D,” Mazzola said. “But the fact that it did block was an added bonus.”

<p>“We wanted Prop. E to pass. We wouldn't have put it on [the ballot] just to block Prop. D,” Mazzola said. “But the fact that it did block was an added bonus.”</p>

<p>“We wanted Prop. E to pass. We wouldn&#8217;t have put it on [the ballot] just to block Prop. D,” Mazzola said. “But the fact that it did block was an added bonus.”</p>

The rift between the Building Trades and carpenters seems unlikely to be resolved anytime soon. The Nor Cal Carpenters Union has aligned with Wiener and Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland)—both champions of all forms of housing construction—in a calculated move that could bring them more work.&nbsp;

<p>The rift between the Building Trades and carpenters seems unlikely to be resolved anytime soon. The Nor Cal Carpenters Union has aligned with Wiener and Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland)—both champions of all forms of housing construction—in a calculated move that could bring them more work.&nbsp;</p>

<figure class="wp-block-video"><video autoplay controls loop muted poster="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/SFS_PROJECT_VERSION.00_24_02_01.Still009.jpg" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/MaceoMay04192023_VIDEO_INLINE_2.mp4" playsinline></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Members of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union lead a chant with San Francisco Mayor London Breed, center, and Jay Bradshaw, right, the union’s executive secretary-treasurer, on the steps of City Hall on April 14, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

At a rally last week at City Hall, members of the carpenters union decried wage theft and tax fraud in between boastful chants about being carpenters. In an interview, Bradshaw, head of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, dismissed the grievances of the local Building Trades on modular construction.

<p>At a rally last week at City Hall, members of the carpenters union decried wage theft and tax fraud in between boastful chants about being carpenters. In an interview, Bradshaw, head of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, dismissed the grievances of the local Building Trades on modular construction.</p>

“It&#8217;s a total red-herring issue,” he said. “They had zero interest nor capability to expand into industrial production of housing.” 

<p>“It's a total red-herring issue,” he said. “They had zero interest nor capability to expand into industrial production of housing.” </p>

<p>“It&#8217;s a total red-herring issue,” he said. “They had zero interest nor capability to expand into industrial production of housing.” </p>

On the issue of being suspended by the SF Building Trades, Bradshaw added, “They have a right to fight us on it. Good for them.”

<p>On the issue of being suspended by the SF Building Trades, Bradshaw added, “They have a right to fight us on it. Good for them.”</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-political-winds-blow">Political Winds Blow</h2>


<h2 id="h-political-winds-blow">Political Winds Blow</h2>

In a show of support for the carpenters, Breed and Wiener both attended last week’s event at City Hall. Wiener is carrying two bills with the support of the carpenters: <a href="https://calmatters.org/commentary/2022/12/union-conflict-threatens-housing-legislation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SB 4</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/scott-wiener-doubles-down-on-bill-that-fast-tracks-new-housing/">SB 423</a>. The goal of both bills is to streamline and fast-track housing approvals.

<p>In a show of support for the carpenters, Breed and Wiener both attended last week’s event at City Hall. Wiener is carrying two bills with the support of the carpenters: <a href="https://calmatters.org/commentary/2022/12/union-conflict-threatens-housing-legislation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SB 4</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/scott-wiener-doubles-down-on-bill-that-fast-tracks-new-housing/">SB 423</a>. The goal of both bills is to streamline and fast-track housing approvals.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/NorCalCarpU/status/1640859291195437056?s=20
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Nor Cal Carpenters Union is proud to support Senate Bills 423 and 4. These bills will streamline the construction of affordable housing in California. Both require Prevailing Wages, Family Medical Healthcare, Apprenticeship, and will have the strongest <a href="https://t.co/AWQOEgwluL">https://t.co/AWQOEgwluL</a>… <a href="https://t.co/fzAiRVaFj4">pic.twitter.com/fzAiRVaFj4</a></p>&mdash; Nor Cal Carpenters Union (@NorCalCarpU) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorCalCarpU/status/1640859291195437056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

City officials have stressed that modular housing is just one of many strategies in meeting its Housing Element, which calls for the 82,000 new units.

<p>City officials have stressed that modular housing is just one of many strategies in meeting its Housing Element, which calls for the 82,000 new units.</p>

“Modular construction is one tool we can use, but it is just one tool of many,” said Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for Breed. “There are numerous other improvements we need to make and we are always open to pursuing different innovative strategies to get more housing built faster.”

<p>“Modular construction is one tool we can use, but it is just one tool of many,” said Jeff Cretan, a spokesperson for Breed. “There are numerous other improvements we need to make and we are always open to pursuing different innovative strategies to get more housing built faster.”</p>

But a new front in the war over construction work in San Francisco has emerged in recent weeks. The Building Trades are now accusing the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) of abandoning the citywide <a href="https://sf.gov/information/understanding-citywide-project-labor-agreement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Project Labor Agreement</a>, and cutting them out of <a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23784279-mohcd-ltr-to-bctc_060619_update070819" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jobs related to a 2019 housing bond measure</a> that will lead to hundreds of millions of dollars in contracts.

<p>But a new front in the war over construction work in San Francisco has emerged in recent weeks. The Building Trades are now accusing the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) of abandoning the citywide <a href="https://sf.gov/information/understanding-citywide-project-labor-agreement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Project Labor Agreement</a>, and cutting them out of <a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23784279-mohcd-ltr-to-bctc_060619_update070819" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jobs related to a 2019 housing bond measure</a> that will lead to hundreds of millions of dollars in contracts. </p>

The Mayor’s Office contends that affordable housing projects that receive funding from the city are not subject to the existing project labor agreement, which prompted the Building Trades to recruit the help of Supervisors Chan and Ahsha Safaí, the latter of whom is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/ahsha-safai-says-he-might-run-against-mayor-london-breed-next-year/">considering a run for mayor</a>.

<p>The Mayor’s Office contends that affordable housing projects that receive funding from the city are not subject to the existing project labor agreement, which prompted the Building Trades to recruit the help of Supervisors Chan and Ahsha Safaí, the latter of whom is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/ahsha-safai-says-he-might-run-against-mayor-london-breed-next-year/">considering a run for mayor</a>.</p>

“The previous director of MOHCD sent a letter to the Trades clearly spelling out the city’s position on how the 2019 affordable housing bond would be spent and committed to skilled and trained workforce,” Safaí told The Standard. “That is pretty clear. As far as modular construction goes, we need leadership to bring a modular construction factory to San Francisco that includes all crafts.”

<p>“The previous director of MOHCD sent a letter to the Trades clearly spelling out the city’s position on how the 2019 affordable housing bond would be spent and committed to skilled and trained workforce,” Safaí told The Standard. “That is pretty clear. As far as modular construction goes, we need leadership to bring a modular construction factory to San Francisco that includes all crafts.”</p>

The new fight has affordable housing developers spooked, city officials said. The prospect of contracting with Building Trades laborers on all aspects of a project could raise the cost of construction, although Mazzola and others dispute this argument. If an impasse persists, the Building Trades might oppose a housing bond expected to go to voters in 2024.

<p>The new fight has affordable housing developers spooked, city officials said. The prospect of contracting with Building Trades laborers on all aspects of a project could raise the cost of construction, although Mazzola and others dispute this argument. If an impasse persists, the Building Trades might oppose a housing bond expected to go to voters in 2024.</p>

Modular affordable housing project at 833 Bryant St. seen being built on Tuesday, June 30, 2020, in San Francisco, Calif. (Photo By Liz Hafalia/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/INLINED3_MaceoMay04072023-2500x1625.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-151169"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Workers build a modular affordable housing project at 833 Bryant St. in San Francisco on June 30, 2020. | By Liz Hafalia/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


“I don’t know,” Mazzola said. “Opposing a housing bond is tough, but I would like to think that we can work this out, so that there are no problems in the future.”

<p>“I don’t know,” Mazzola said. “Opposing a housing bond is tough, but I would like to think that we can work this out, so that there are no problems in the future.”</p>

For some local housing advocates, however, this simmering beef between the Building Trades, City Hall and the carpenters is long overdue and necessary.

<p>For some local housing advocates, however, this simmering beef between the Building Trades, City Hall and the carpenters is long overdue and necessary.</p>

“I think the only path is to have this fight and for the carpenters to win,” said Laura Foote, executive director of YIMBY Action. “We’re never going to meet our housing goals under the requirements of the Trades. This fight needs to happen to bring us into the promised land.”

<p>“I think the only path is to have this fight and for the carpenters to win,” said Laura Foote, executive director of YIMBY Action. “We’re never going to meet our housing goals under the requirements of the Trades. This fight needs to happen to bring us into the promised land.”</p>

Bomb cyclone adds $35M to housing project, exposes labor rifts

In the days since <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/campos-haney-april-election-results/">Matt Haney breezed to a state Assembly election victory</a> over David Campos, the San Francisco supervisor has been on a tour to pay homage and thanks to his supporters. On Thursday, Haney spoke with The Standard by phone for a post-election interview on how he won by such a huge margin and what he expects to do in Sacramento.

<p>In the days since <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/campos-haney-april-election-results/">Matt Haney breezed to a state Assembly election victory</a> over David Campos, the San Francisco supervisor has been on a tour to pay homage and thanks to his supporters. On Thursday, Haney spoke with The Standard by phone for a post-election interview on how he won by such a huge margin and what he expects to do in Sacramento.</p>

What was the primary driver for Haney’s election victory?


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-was-the-primary-driver-for-haney-s-election-victory">What was the primary driver for Haney’s election victory?</h2>


<h2 id="h-what-was-the-primary-driver-for-haney-s-election-victory">What was the primary driver for Haney’s election victory?</h2>

Housing discussions dominated the race, and YIMBY Action’s endorsement of Haney—after the group supported Bilal Mahmood in the primary—has received a lot of attention. Many in San Francisco believe this race should serve as <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2022/04/progressives-ignore-the-lessons-of-haney-campos-at-their-own-peril/">a wake-up call for progressives</a> to more strongly support housing.&nbsp;

<p>Housing discussions dominated the race, and YIMBY Action’s endorsement of Haney—after the group supported Bilal Mahmood in the primary—has received a lot of attention. Many in San Francisco believe this race should serve as <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2022/04/progressives-ignore-the-lessons-of-haney-campos-at-their-own-peril/">a wake-up call for progressives</a> to more strongly support housing.&nbsp;</p>

Haney ran against a YIMBY, Sonja Trauss, during his 2018 supervisor race, and his evolving stance on building more homes over the last year or so—some political observers called it <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/analysis-matt-haney-david-campos-assembly-housing/">a calculated shift</a>—played a huge role in differentiating himself from Campos.&nbsp;

<p>Haney ran against a YIMBY, Sonja Trauss, during his 2018 supervisor race, and his evolving stance on building more homes over the last year or so—some political observers called it <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/analysis-matt-haney-david-campos-assembly-housing/">a calculated shift</a>—played a huge role in differentiating himself from Campos.&nbsp;</p>

But the groups Haney credited most for his success in Tuesday’s election were unions. He pointed specifically to support he received from American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees and Service Employees International Union, calling the latter’s endorsement “the most pivotal moment in this campaign.”&nbsp;

<p>But the groups Haney credited most for his success in Tuesday’s election were unions. He pointed specifically to support he received from American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees and Service Employees International Union, calling the latter’s endorsement “the most pivotal moment in this campaign.”&nbsp;</p>

“I think that was a much bigger part of our win than people realize and are giving credit to,” Haney said. “A winning progressive campaign needs working people and a massive labor coalition behind it, and that was the foundation and backbone of our campaign from the beginning.”

<p>“I think that was a much bigger part of our win than people realize and are giving credit to,” Haney said. “A winning progressive campaign needs working people and a massive labor coalition behind it, and that was the foundation and backbone of our campaign from the beginning.”</p>

What does Haney have to say about criticism of his shifting stance on housing?


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-haney-have-to-say-about-criticism-of-his-shifting-stance-on-housing">What does Haney have to say about criticism of his shifting stance on housing?</h2>


<h2 id="h-what-does-haney-have-to-say-about-criticism-of-his-shifting-stance-on-housing">What does Haney have to say about criticism of his shifting stance on housing?</h2>

Well, San Francisco, all he has to do is point to the returns and yell “scoreboard,” because it clearly didn’t hurt him. But does Haney like being called a political code-switcher who will gladly bend with the political winds? No. He really doesn’t like that.

<p>Well, San Francisco, all he has to do is point to the returns and yell “scoreboard,” because it clearly didn’t hurt him. But does Haney like being called a political code-switcher who will gladly bend with the political winds? No. He really doesn’t like that.</p>

In Thursday’s interview, Haney doubled down on being a real pro-housing guy. He said his previous <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/bayarea/heatherknight/article/Matt-Haney-plans-to-run-for-state-Assembly-16494981.php">agnosticism on building more housing outside of District 6</a>—as well as his temporary opposition to Scott Wiener’s aggressive housing bills in the state Senate—should be viewed as part of the legislative process.&nbsp;

<p>In Thursday’s interview, Haney doubled down on being a real pro-housing guy. He said his previous <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/bayarea/heatherknight/article/Matt-Haney-plans-to-run-for-state-Assembly-16494981.php">agnosticism on building more housing outside of District 6</a>—as well as his temporary opposition to Scott Wiener’s aggressive housing bills in the state Senate—should be viewed as part of the legislative process.&nbsp;</p>

“A narrative catches and it holds, but the reality is I’ve been pro-housing, and I will continue to be in a different role,” Haney said. “My version of progressivism has always been rooted in listening to people and responding to the real concerns that they have, and not governing in a way that dismisses the concerns and experience of my constituents.”

<p>“A narrative catches and it holds, but the reality is I’ve been pro-housing, and I will continue to be in a different role,” Haney said. “My version of progressivism has always been rooted in listening to people and responding to the real concerns that they have, and not governing in a way that dismisses the concerns and experience of my constituents.”</p>

Matt Haney celebrates at his election party on April 19, 2022. | Camille Cohen


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Image-from-iOS-3-1-2-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-47334"/><figcaption>Matt Haney celebrates at his election party on April 19, 2022. | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>


What will Haney do once he’s sworn in to the state Assembly?


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-will-haney-do-once-he-s-sworn-in-to-the-state-assembly">What will Haney do once he’s sworn in to the state Assembly?</h2>


<h2 id="h-what-will-haney-do-once-he-s-sworn-in-to-the-state-assembly">What will Haney do once he’s sworn in to the state Assembly?</h2>

Two state bills could help chip away at San Francisco’s housing shortage—gradually

Bomb cyclone adds $35M to housing project, exposes labor rifts

Matt Haney shares secrets to Assembly victory, rejects criticism on housing

Stern Grove Festival returns with Too Short, Toro y Moi, Taj Mahal and more

Brooke Jenkins has huge lead in district attorney race as tough talk on crime wins over voters

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Two state bills could help chip away at San Francisco’s housing shortage—gradually

Bomb cyclone adds $35M to housing project, exposes labor rifts

Matt Haney shares secrets to Assembly victory, rejects criticism on housing

Stern Grove Festival returns with Too Short, Toro y Moi, Taj Mahal and more

Brooke Jenkins has huge lead in district attorney race as tough talk on crime wins over voters