Gabe Greschler

Noah Baustin

Board President Aaron Peskin has called for an investigation into a city department  following allegations about the Dream Keeper Initiative, a flagship project of San Francisco Mayor London Breed&#8217;s that has fallen under scrutiny in recent months.

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Board President Aaron Peskin has called for an investigation into a city department following allegations about the Dream Keeper Initiative, a flagship project of San Francisco Mayor London Breed's that has fallen under scrutiny in recent months.

Board President Aaron Peskin has called for an investigation into a city department following allegations about the Dream Keeper Initiative, a flagship project of San Francisco Mayor London Breed&#8217;s that has fallen under scrutiny in recent months.

On Thursday, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/12/san-francisco-dream-keeper-initiative-sheryl-davis-james-spingola-nonprofit/">The Standard published a story</a> revealing that the initiative&#8217;s top decision maker, Human Rights Commission executive director Sheryl Davis, approved $1.5 million in contracts to a nonprofit executive with whom she shared a house.

City official on leave after signing off on $1.5M in grants to man she shared home with

On Thursday, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/12/san-francisco-dream-keeper-initiative-sheryl-davis-james-spingola-nonprofit/">The Standard published a story</a> revealing that the initiative's top decision maker, Human Rights Commission executive director Sheryl Davis, approved $1.5 million in contracts to a nonprofit executive with whom she shared a house.

On Thursday, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/12/san-francisco-dream-keeper-initiative-sheryl-davis-james-spingola-nonprofit/">The Standard published a story</a> revealing that the initiative&#8217;s top decision maker, Human Rights Commission executive director Sheryl Davis, approved $1.5 million in contracts to a nonprofit executive with whom she shared a house.

Davis is on leave as of Thursday, according to the mayor&#8217;s office. The mayor will appoint an interim leader for the Human Rights Commission.

Davis is on leave as of Thursday, according to the mayor's office. The mayor will appoint an interim leader for the Human Rights Commission.

Davis is on leave as of Thursday, according to the mayor&#8217;s office. The mayor will appoint an interim leader for the Human Rights Commission.

The Standard&#8217;s investigation found that Davis signed off on contracts for the nonprofit Collective Impact, run by James Spingola, without notifying City Hall about her relationship. In addition to sharing a home address, Davis co-owns a car with Spingola. The arrangement appears to run afoul of city rules around disclosing personal relationships with recipients of city funding.

The Standard's investigation found that Davis signed off on contracts for the nonprofit Collective Impact, run by James Spingola, without notifying City Hall about her relationship. In addition to sharing a home address, Davis co-owns a car with Spingola. The arrangement appears to run afoul of city rules around disclosing personal relationships with recipients of city funding.

The Standard&#8217;s investigation found that Davis signed off on contracts for the nonprofit Collective Impact, run by James Spingola, without notifying City Hall about her relationship. In addition to sharing a home address, Davis co-owns a car with Spingola. The arrangement appears to run afoul of city rules around disclosing personal relationships with recipients of city funding.

Davis did not respond to a request for comment about her leave.

Davis did not respond to a request for comment about her leave.

Peskin, a candidate in the November mayor&#8217;s race, isn&#8217;t the only one to call for an investigation. On Thursday, mayoral candidate and former Supervisor Mark Farrell called for Breed to fire Davis and for a federal investigation into the Dream Keeper Initiative and the mayor&#8217;s role in the program.

Peskin, a candidate in the November mayor's race, isn't the only one to call for an investigation. On Thursday, mayoral candidate and former Supervisor Mark Farrell called for Breed to fire Davis and for a federal investigation into the Dream Keeper Initiative and the mayor's role in the program.

Peskin, a candidate in the November mayor&#8217;s race, isn&#8217;t the only one to call for an investigation. On Thursday, mayoral candidate and former Supervisor Mark Farrell called for Breed to fire Davis and for a federal investigation into the Dream Keeper Initiative and the mayor&#8217;s role in the program.

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In July 2020, Mayor London Breed, Supervisor Shamann Walton and other city leaders <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-million-from-15447811.php">proposed</a>&nbsp;redirecting city funds from law enforcement to support economic and cultural development in San Francisco’s Black communities. In February 2021 <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Here-s-how-San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-15980236.php">introduced a more detailed plan</a>, dubbing it the Dream Keeper Initiative and calling for a $60 million annual investment. In total, city leaders have budgeted roughly $300 million for the program.

In July 2020, Mayor London Breed, Supervisor Shamann Walton and other city leaders <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-million-from-15447811.php">proposed</a>&nbsp;redirecting city funds from law enforcement to support economic and cultural development in San Francisco’s Black communities. In February 2021 <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Here-s-how-San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-15980236.php">introduced a more detailed plan</a>, dubbing it the Dream Keeper Initiative and calling for a $60 million annual investment. In total, city leaders have budgeted roughly $300 million for the program.

In recent months, however, the initiative has been dogged by questions of transparency and oversight of how funds are used. Human Rights Commission staffers have directed much of the initiative, though the money is distributed through various city departments. Records show that, in 2021 and 2022, Davis approved three contracts totaling $1.5 million directed towards for Collective Impact, Spingola&#8217;s nonprofit, as part of the Dream Keeper Initiative.

In recent months, however, the initiative has been dogged by questions of transparency and oversight of how funds are used. Human Rights Commission staffers have directed much of the initiative, though the money is distributed through various city departments. Records show that, in 2021 and 2022, Davis approved three contracts totaling $1.5 million directed towards for Collective Impact, Spingola's nonprofit, as part of the Dream Keeper Initiative.

In recent months, however, the initiative has been dogged by questions of transparency and oversight of how funds are used. Human Rights Commission staffers have directed much of the initiative, though the money is distributed through various city departments. Records show that, in 2021 and 2022, Davis approved three contracts totaling $1.5 million directed towards for Collective Impact, Spingola&#8217;s nonprofit, as part of the Dream Keeper Initiative.

Mayoral candidate and nonprofit executive Daniel Lurie said Breed had &#8220;handed a blank check to her closest allies with zero oversight.&#8221;

Mayoral candidate and nonprofit executive Daniel Lurie said Breed had "handed a blank check to her closest allies with zero oversight."

Mayoral candidate and nonprofit executive Daniel Lurie said Breed had &#8220;handed a blank check to her closest allies with zero oversight.&#8221;

In a statement on Thursday, Breed said that she was &#8220;committed to ensuring the integrity of the program and continuing the good that it does with full transparency.&#8221;

In a statement on Thursday, Breed said that she was "committed to ensuring the integrity of the program and continuing the good that it does with full transparency."

In a statement on Thursday, Breed said that she was &#8220;committed to ensuring the integrity of the program and continuing the good that it does with full transparency.&#8221;

Breed said she has directed the Department of Human Resources and the city attorney&#8217;s office to investigate questions about the Dream Keeper Initiative. On Thursday, the Chronicle published a story that showed a &#8220;litany&#8221; of issues around Human Rights Commission spending, and questionable accounting practices.

Breed said she has directed the Department of Human Resources and the city attorney's office to investigate questions about the Dream Keeper Initiative. On Thursday, the Chronicle published a story that showed a "litany" of issues around Human Rights Commission spending, and questionable accounting practices.

Breed said she has directed the Department of Human Resources and the city attorney&#8217;s office to investigate questions about the Dream Keeper Initiative. On Thursday, the Chronicle published a story that showed a &#8220;litany&#8221; of issues around Human Rights Commission spending, and questionable accounting practices.

Peskin called the questions about Davis and Spingola&#8217;s relationship &#8220;very serious and deeply disturbing and can’t be brushed under the rug.&#8221;

Peskin called the questions about Davis and Spingola's relationship "very serious and deeply disturbing and can’t be brushed under the rug."

Peskin called the questions about Davis and Spingola&#8217;s relationship &#8220;very serious and deeply disturbing and can’t be brushed under the rug.&#8221;

&#8220;I will be utilizing the Board of Supervisors unlimited power of inquiry,&#8221; Peskin said in an interview with The Standard. &#8220;To call public hearings and bring forward the controller and other oversight authorities to fully report and tell us the status of what they know and how they’re going to thoroughly investigate this matter, get to the bottom of it and hold people accountable.&#8221;

"I will be utilizing the Board of Supervisors unlimited power of inquiry," Peskin said in an interview with The Standard. "To call public hearings and bring forward the controller and other oversight authorities to fully report and tell us the status of what they know and how they’re going to thoroughly investigate this matter, get to the bottom of it and hold people accountable."

&#8220;I will be utilizing the Board of Supervisors unlimited power of inquiry,&#8221; Peskin said in an interview with The Standard. &#8220;To call public hearings and bring forward the controller and other oversight authorities to fully report and tell us the status of what they know and how they’re going to thoroughly investigate this matter, get to the bottom of it and hold people accountable.&#8221;

Lawmaker calls for investigation into embattled Human Rights Commission

Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez

Candidates for office across San Francisco are hoping voters notice that, yes, they too think they just fell out of a coconut tree. They too exist in the context.

Candidates for office across San Francisco are hoping voters notice that, yes, they too think they just fell out of a coconut tree. They too exist in the context.

Selfies with Vice President Kamala Harris — and Harris campaign paraphernalia — are popping up on candidates’ social media accounts across San Francisco. Coconuts and palm tree emojis have sprouted in Instagram profiles. Everyone’s in on the action: candidates for state Assembly, district attorney, the Board of Supervisors, even the BART Board of Directors.

Selfies with Vice President Kamala Harris — and Harris campaign paraphernalia — are popping up on candidates’ social media accounts across San Francisco. Coconuts and palm tree emojis have sprouted in Instagram profiles. Everyone’s in on the action: candidates for state Assembly, district attorney, the Board of Supervisors, even the BART Board of Directors.

No office is too small, or too obscure, to be saved from the rush for candidates basking in <a href="https://people.com/kamala-harris-brat-summer-charli-xcx-explained-8681485">brat summer</a>.

No office is too small, or too obscure, to be saved from the rush for candidates basking in <a href="https://people.com/kamala-harris-brat-summer-charli-xcx-explained-8681485">brat summer</a>.

“I’ve seen all kinds of crazy pictures, man,” said David Ho, a San Francisco–based political consultant. “It’s a novelty, right? There’s a certain sense of ‘wow, this is groundbreaking, transformative.’ I think this honeymoon is going to last a few weeks.”

“I’ve seen all kinds of crazy pictures, man,” said David Ho, a San Francisco–based political consultant. “It’s a novelty, right? There’s a certain sense of ‘wow, this is groundbreaking, transformative.’ I think this honeymoon is going to last a few weeks.”

Party central: SF Democrats storm Chicago for historic DNC

Ho points to the unique opportunity offered to local politicians.

Ho points to the unique opportunity offered to local politicians.

Not only is the nation’s leading Democrat enjoying a surge in polls across demographics, but she also launched her career in San Francisco. Harris raised her first campaign dollars <a href="https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2019/08/09/kamala-harris-2020-president-profile-san-francisco-elite-227611/">from the wealthiest families in San Francisco</a>. And many city politicians have known her since she was a young prosecutor rising through the ranks in San Francisco.

Not only is the nation’s leading Democrat enjoying a surge in polls across demographics, but she also launched her career in San Francisco. Harris raised her first campaign dollars <a href="https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2019/08/09/kamala-harris-2020-president-profile-san-francisco-elite-227611/">from the wealthiest families in San Francisco</a>. And many city politicians have known her since she was a young prosecutor rising through the ranks in San Francisco.

Fittingly, then, posed portraits with those same politicians and Harris are as abundant as <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mxwlch03/video/7394583648571313424">coconut tree TikToks</a>. They all share a singular vibe: asking voters to associate Harris and that local candidate in the hope of earning a vote.

Fittingly, then, posed portraits with those same politicians and Harris are as abundant as <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mxwlch03/video/7394583648571313424">coconut tree TikToks</a>. They all share a singular vibe: asking voters to associate Harris and that local candidate in the hope of earning a vote.

The photos vary: one with Supervisor Catherine Stefani, a state Assembly hopeful, features Stefani and Harris <a href="https://x.com/Stefani4CA/status/1815217309700759759">standing in front of a stately, snowflake-adorned Christmas tree</a>:

The photos vary: one with Supervisor Catherine Stefani, a state Assembly hopeful, features Stefani and Harris <a href="https://x.com/Stefani4CA/status/1815217309700759759">standing in front of a stately, snowflake-adorned Christmas tree</a>:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Kamala Harris is a force to be reckoned with. Proud to endorse her in the past &amp; thrilled to endorse her again today. There has never been a greater threat to our values than Donald Trump and his extreme agenda. VP <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> is ready to lead our country — let’s get to work! <a href="https://t.co/eHvF0p4Zva">pic.twitter.com/eHvF0p4Zva</a>&mdash; Catherine Stefani 司嘉怡 (@Stefani4CA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stefani4CA/status/1815217309700759759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Supervisor Connie Chan, who is running for reelection, and who worked for Harris when she was San Francisco district attorney, snagged a photo in which Harris is giving her signature laugh.

Supervisor Connie Chan, who is running for reelection, and who worked for Harris when she was San Francisco district attorney, snagged a photo in which Harris is giving her signature laugh.

Trevor Chandler, a supervisor hopeful, snagged the classic Harris selfie, with part of his face cut off from the oddly angled phone. Luis Zamora is a California Democratic delegate who is also a candidate for the City College of San Francisco Board of Trustees. Late last month, he posted a screenshot of a Zoom call with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi in which delegates voted to back Harris as the Democratic nominee.

Trevor Chandler, a supervisor hopeful, snagged the classic Harris selfie, with part of his face cut off from the oddly angled phone. Luis Zamora is a California Democratic delegate who is also a candidate for the City College of San Francisco Board of Trustees. Late last month, he posted a screenshot of a Zoom call with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi in which delegates voted to back Harris as the Democratic nominee.

And, as The Standard <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/29/kamala-harris-london-breed-mayoral-race/">has covered before</a>, even Mayor London Breed has gotten in on the action, repeatedly posting photos alongside the vice president.

Kamala Harris energized SF voters. Will she also help reelect London Breed?

And, as The Standard <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/29/kamala-harris-london-breed-mayoral-race/">has covered before</a>, even Mayor London Breed has gotten in on the action, repeatedly posting photos alongside the vice president.

Some are more creative than others. Edward Wright, a candidate for the BART Board of Directors, crafted his own BART buttons, but <a href="https://x.com/EdwardWrightSF/status/1816276929806561759">spelled in lowercase and emblazoned on a green background</a> to resemble the “brat” memes Gen Z are sharing <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqqlgq7k374o">to celebrate Harris</a>.

Some are more creative than others. Edward Wright, a candidate for the BART Board of Directors, crafted his own BART buttons, but <a href="https://x.com/EdwardWrightSF/status/1816276929806561759">spelled in lowercase and emblazoned on a green background</a> to resemble the “brat” memes Gen Z are sharing <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqqlgq7k374o">to celebrate Harris</a>.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I’ve been saying it!! Anyway, we made some more of these buttons. I’ll have them at Wave Collective tomorrow at 6pm — come by if you’d like one! <a href="https://t.co/4Lq8pJJVjG">https://t.co/4Lq8pJJVjG</a> <a href="https://t.co/dH6dBNBi4J">https://t.co/dH6dBNBi4J</a> <a href="https://t.co/v1fqDc7m5E">pic.twitter.com/v1fqDc7m5E</a>&mdash; Edward Wright for BART Board (@EdwardWrightSF) <a href="https://twitter.com/EdwardWrightSF/status/1816276929806561759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I think everyone has felt what could perhaps most accurately be called a vibe shift in international politics,” Wright told The Standard. “And I think everything has become so nationalized now, we feel that on a local level too.”

“I think everyone has felt what could perhaps most accurately be called a vibe shift in international politics,” Wright told The Standard. “And I think everything has become so nationalized now, we feel that on a local level too.”

Wright said he actually crafted the brat-style BART buttons before Harris rebranded her campaign with the signature green-and-black stylings of musical artist Charli XCX’s “brat” iconography.

Wright said he actually crafted the brat-style BART buttons before Harris rebranded her campaign with the signature green-and-black stylings of musical artist Charli XCX’s “brat” iconography.

But when Harris leaned into it, so did Wright. He’s given out hundreds of buttons. People who may not have learned about a candidate for a transit board have now learned Wright’s name.

But when Harris leaned into it, so did Wright. He’s given out hundreds of buttons. People who may not have learned about a candidate for a transit board have now learned Wright’s name.

“There was another surge of interest and enthusiasm. We had to make a lot more buttons,” Wright said.

“There was another surge of interest and enthusiasm. We had to make a lot more buttons,” Wright said.

An Associated Press–NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll r<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-honesty-discipline-immigration-ap-poll-f025463df08beacbaa0c51e7bbb7eda7">eleased Wednesday</a> shows two-thirds of Democrats are excited for Harris to be elected. And with so many San Francisco politicians enjoying personal relationships with Harris, it makes sense some would want to join in her zeitgeist.

An Associated Press–NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll r<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-honesty-discipline-immigration-ap-poll-f025463df08beacbaa0c51e7bbb7eda7">eleased Wednesday</a> shows two-thirds of Democrats are excited for Harris to be elected. And with so many San Francisco politicians enjoying personal relationships with Harris, it makes sense some would want to join in her zeitgeist.

For down-ballot races like Wright’s, where voters often know little about a candidate, it’s a shortcut to understand more about them by association, said veteran campaign consultant Jim Ross, who worked on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s successful 2003 mayoral election.

For down-ballot races like Wright’s, where voters often know little about a candidate, it’s a shortcut to understand more about them by association, said veteran campaign consultant Jim Ross, who worked on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s successful 2003 mayoral election.

“It’s a signal to voters of where you come from, who you are and what your values are,” Ross said. “On that level, it’s pretty valuable, but it’s not something that’s going to make or break your campaign.”

“It’s a signal to voters of where you come from, who you are and what your values are,” Ross said. “On that level, it’s pretty valuable, but it’s not something that’s going to make or break your campaign.”

And, he added, candidates who have personal experience with the vice president — like Chan, the supervisor, who worked with Harris — may be able to articulate to voters why their experience with the VP will help them in office.

And, he added, candidates who have personal experience with the vice president — like Chan, the supervisor, who worked with Harris — may be able to articulate to voters why their experience with the VP will help them in office.

“It’s a direct link,” Ross said.

The strategy comes with risks, however. When mayoral hopeful Mark Farrell posted a photo of himself in a backwards cap promoting the “White Dudes for Harris” group on social media, he was met with a deluge of negativity from his followers.

The strategy comes with risks, however. When mayoral hopeful Mark Farrell posted a photo of himself in a backwards cap promoting the “White Dudes for Harris” group on social media, he was met with a deluge of negativity from his followers.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">To my fellow white dudes &#8211; join me in supporting Vice President Kamala Harris to be our next President. She is exactly the leader who we need to protect our freedoms and provide a better life and future for our families 🥥🌴 Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/KKt2y4eRgH">https://t.co/KKt2y4eRgH</a> <a href="https://t.co/AspKlh0A3V">pic.twitter.com/AspKlh0A3V</a>&mdash; Mark Farrell (@MarkFarrellSF) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkFarrellSF/status/1818346565515592154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Some local candidates want to harness San Francisco’s brat fever to help Harris.

Some local candidates want to harness San Francisco’s brat fever to help Harris.

City Attorney David Chiu is a California Democratic delegate who will journey to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next week. In the late 1990s, he worked with Harris in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. When she was elected to lead that office in 2003, she tapped him to reform its paper-based systems to rely on computer filing to better track cases.

City Attorney David Chiu is a California Democratic delegate who will journey to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next week. In the late 1990s, he worked with Harris in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. When she was elected to lead that office in 2003, she tapped him to reform its paper-based systems to rely on computer filing to better track cases.

Unsurprisingly, Chiu has also flooded his social media with pro-Harris posts. Chiu is hopeful local Democrats will harness California volunteers to make calls and donate money in swing states, where they can make the most impact.

Unsurprisingly, Chiu has also flooded his social media with pro-Harris posts. Chiu is hopeful local Democrats will harness California volunteers to make calls and donate money in swing states, where they can make the most impact.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Today, we thank President Biden for his incredible service to our country, and for having selfless grace in this difficult moment.  As a California DNC delegate, I&#39;m incredibly excited to support Vice President <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> to be our next Democratic nominee. <a href="https://t.co/iqLJ3gjqOy">pic.twitter.com/iqLJ3gjqOy</a>&mdash; David Chiu (@DavidChiu) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidChiu/status/1815111657603092481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I think it’s not a secret that many delegates were very worried about what was going on and what the convention could entail. Now there’s an incredible sense of optimism and, yes, joy,” Chiu said. “But that being said, I’m sure for all of us, we’re thinking about the next 80-plus days and all the work that will need to be done to ensure that she actually gets to occupy the White House.”

“I think it’s not a secret that many delegates were very worried about what was going on and what the convention could entail. Now there’s an incredible sense of optimism and, yes, joy,” Chiu said. “But that being said, I’m sure for all of us, we’re thinking about the next 80-plus days and all the work that will need to be done to ensure that she actually gets to occupy the White House.”

Ho, the consultant, thinks the only local candidates likely to significantly benefit from a “Kamala bump” in the polls are Mayor London Breed and Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin: Breed because of Harris’ friendship with the mayor and the power of seeing two Black women endorsed by the San Francisco Democratic Party, and Peskin because Harris will turn out progressive voters.

Ho, the consultant, thinks the only local candidates likely to significantly benefit from a “Kamala bump” in the polls are Mayor London Breed and Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin: Breed because of Harris’ friendship with the mayor and the power of seeing two Black women endorsed by the San Francisco Democratic Party, and Peskin because Harris will turn out progressive voters.

Vice President Kamala Harris moves in to hug San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin during a fundraiser at the Fairmont San Francisco hotel in San Francisco on August 11.

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/img_5682-jpg.jpeg" alt="A woman in a suit smiles and greets an older man with glasses and a white beard. Several people, including security personnel, are gathered around them." class="wp-image-302668"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vice President Kamala Harris moves in to hug San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin during a fundraiser at the Fairmont San Francisco hotel in San Francisco on August 11.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/img_5682-jpg.jpeg" alt="A woman in a suit smiles and greets an older man with glasses and a white beard. Several people, including security personnel, are gathered around them." class="wp-image-302668"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vice President Kamala Harris moves in to hug San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin during a fundraiser at the Fairmont San Francisco hotel in San Francisco on August 11.</figcaption></figure>

Peskin also joined the photo fray: one shows Harris hugging him tightly at a Sunday night fundraiser at the Fairmont Hotel. The other shows Harris and Peskin in their elementary school yearbook — they were classmates.

Peskin also joined the photo fray: one shows Harris hugging him tightly at a Sunday night fundraiser at the Fairmont Hotel. The other shows Harris and Peskin in their elementary school yearbook — they were classmates.

Peskin said he didn’t care about any potential political benefits from his association with Harris. He was just personally ecstatic seeing his elementary school friend poised to lead the White House.

Peskin said he didn’t care about any potential political benefits from his association with Harris. He was just personally ecstatic seeing his elementary school friend poised to lead the White House.

“I’ve known her 55 years,” he said. “It’s pretty amazing the person you know for all your life may be the person who saves your country.”

“I’ve known her 55 years,” he said. “It’s pretty amazing the person you know for all your life may be the person who saves your country.”

SF candidates go selfie-crazy in hopes of basking in Kamala Harris’ glow

Han Li

The fate of a coastal roadway unexpectedly became one of the most divisive political fights this election season in San Francisco, turning the sleepy west side into a campaign battleground.

The fate of a coastal roadway unexpectedly became one of the most divisive political fights this election season in San Francisco, turning the sleepy west side into a campaign battleground.

Proposition K, introduced by Supervisor Joel Engardio, aims to permanently ban private vehicles from a two-mile stretch of the Upper Great Highway between Lincoln Way and Sloat Boulevard. The southern part of the road connecting to Daly City will soon be closed to cars due to erosion. The roadway is currently open to car traffic on weekdays and closed on weekends for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Proposition K, introduced by Supervisor Joel Engardio, aims to permanently ban private vehicles from a two-mile stretch of the Upper Great Highway between Lincoln Way and Sloat Boulevard. The southern part of the road connecting to Daly City will soon be closed to cars due to erosion. The roadway is currently open to car traffic on weekdays and closed on weekends for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Prop. K passed according to vote returns published Friday.

Prop. K passed according to vote returns published Friday.

Measure K: Permanently ban car traffic on Upper Great Highway

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In a statement, Engardio highlighted that the ballot measure received citywide support, and believed people will come to love a future ocean beach park.

In a statement, Engardio highlighted that the ballot measure received citywide support, and believed people will come to love a future ocean beach park.

He also acknowledged the idea of road closure faced fierce opposition from his own district.

He also acknowledged the idea of road closure faced fierce opposition from his own district.

&#8220;Yet a majority of Sunset residents voted against a full-time park,&#8221; he said. &#8220;It’s impossible for everyone to agree with my actions 100% of the time. When we disagree, it’s important to focus on solving common concerns.&#8221;

"Yet a majority of Sunset residents voted against a full-time park," he said. "It’s impossible for everyone to agree with my actions 100% of the time. When we disagree, it’s important to focus on solving common concerns."

&#8220;Yet a majority of Sunset residents voted against a full-time park,&#8221; he said. &#8220;It’s impossible for everyone to agree with my actions 100% of the time. When we disagree, it’s important to focus on solving common concerns.&#8221;

Prop. K garnered outsize attention this election season, highlighting <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/great-highway-controversy-race-class/">division</a><a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/great-highway-controversy-race-class/"> </a><a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/great-highway-controversy-race-class/">along economic, racial, and generational lines</a> and increasingly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/19/san-francisco-great-highway-closure-ballot-measure-cars/">intense debates between drivers</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/05/san-francisco-chinatown-bike-lane-breed-sfmta/">advocates for bicyclists</a>, pedestrians, and public transit.

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Prop. K garnered outsize attention this election season, highlighting <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/great-highway-controversy-race-class/">division</a><a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/great-highway-controversy-race-class/"> </a><a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/02/great-highway-controversy-race-class/">along economic, racial, and generational lines</a> and increasingly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/19/san-francisco-great-highway-closure-ballot-measure-cars/">intense debates between drivers</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/05/san-francisco-chinatown-bike-lane-breed-sfmta/">advocates for bicyclists</a>, pedestrians, and public transit.

Supporters of Prop. K promoted the measure by saying it would allow for the creation of a new park.&nbsp;

Supporters of Prop. K promoted the measure by saying it would allow for the creation of a new park.&nbsp;

&#8220;In a city with many dangerous streets, Ocean Beach Park will be a place for people of all ages, especially seniors and children, to walk without fear,&#8221; said Brian Quan, a Richmond District resident who serves on the executive committee of the Sierra Club.

"In a city with many dangerous streets, Ocean Beach Park will be a place for people of all ages, especially seniors and children, to walk without fear," said Brian Quan, a Richmond District resident who serves on the executive committee of the Sierra Club.

&#8220;In a city with many dangerous streets, Ocean Beach Park will be a place for people of all ages, especially seniors and children, to walk without fear,&#8221; said Brian Quan, a Richmond District resident who serves on the executive committee of the Sierra Club.

Opponents argued that the closure would push more cars into surrounding neighborhoods, increasing traffic congestion and travel time.&nbsp;

Opponents argued that the closure would push more cars into surrounding neighborhoods, increasing traffic congestion and travel time.&nbsp;

&#8220;Working families are understandably concerned about the increased traffic and safety risks on neighborhood streets,&#8221; said Vin Budhai, who lives in the Sunset and founded the Open the Great Highway campaign. &#8220;With nearly 20,000 drivers now facing longer commutes, we have to ask — how is this benefiting our environment?&#8221;

"Working families are understandably concerned about the increased traffic and safety risks on neighborhood streets," said Vin Budhai, who lives in the Sunset and founded the Open the Great Highway campaign. "With nearly 20,000 drivers now facing longer commutes, we have to ask — how is this benefiting our environment?"

&#8220;Working families are understandably concerned about the increased traffic and safety risks on neighborhood streets,&#8221; said Vin Budhai, who lives in the Sunset and founded the Open the Great Highway campaign. &#8220;With nearly 20,000 drivers now facing longer commutes, we have to ask — how is this benefiting our environment?&#8221;

Elisa Smith, a long time local, urges that the Great Highway be open as other attendees stand in support on Great Highway and Lincoln Way in the Sunset neighborhood on Thursday July 18, 2024. From bike lanes controversy to the Great Highway car ban, SF drivers are fighting back against the closure of the automobile ban along Highway 1.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240724-driverpolitics-tv0025.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people holds yellow signs saying &quot;Open the Great Highway&quot; in English and Chinese. A woman speaks into a microphone. One sign says, &quot;They want to play, we need to work.&quot;" class="wp-image-292521"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Opponents argue that the closure would push more cars into surrounding neighborhoods, increasing traffic congestion and travel time.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240724-driverpolitics-tv0025.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people holds yellow signs saying &quot;Open the Great Highway&quot; in English and Chinese. A woman speaks into a microphone. One sign says, &quot;They want to play, we need to work.&quot;" class="wp-image-292521"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Opponents argue that the closure would push more cars into surrounding neighborhoods, increasing traffic congestion and travel time.</figcaption></figure>

Opponents also decried Engardio&#8217;s decision to place the measure on a citywide ballot though it will disproportionately impact the west side. Some viewed it as a project driven by wealthy tech workers who can work remotely, as the Prop. K campaign raised significant funding from tech leaders, including $300,000 from Yelp founder Jeremy Stoppelman.

Opponents also decried Engardio's decision to place the measure on a citywide ballot though it will disproportionately impact the west side. Some viewed it as a project driven by wealthy tech workers who can work remotely, as the Prop. K campaign raised significant funding from tech leaders, including $300,000 from Yelp founder Jeremy Stoppelman.

Opponents also decried Engardio&#8217;s decision to place the measure on a citywide ballot though it will disproportionately impact the west side. Some viewed it as a project driven by wealthy tech workers who can work remotely, as the Prop. K campaign raised significant funding from tech leaders, including $300,000 from Yelp founder Jeremy Stoppelman.

While three major mayoral challengers — Daniel Lurie, Aaron Peskin, and Mark Farrell — opposed Prop. K, the measure received prominent political support, winning endorsements from the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/28/dems-endorse-great-highway-park/">San Francisco Democratic Party</a>, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, and Mayor London Breed.

‘Such sellouts!’: SF Dems endorse controversial measure to rid Great Highway of cars

While three major mayoral challengers — Daniel Lurie, Aaron Peskin, and Mark Farrell — opposed Prop. K, the measure received prominent political support, winning endorsements from the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/28/dems-endorse-great-highway-park/">San Francisco Democratic Party</a>, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, and Mayor London Breed.

“Our unique Pacific Ocean coast should be a renowned destination, open for San Franciscans to enjoy every day,” Pelosi said in a rebuttal argument in the city’s official voter guide.

“Our unique Pacific Ocean coast should be a renowned destination, open for San Franciscans to enjoy every day,” Pelosi said in a rebuttal argument in the city’s official voter guide.

After the passage, the Great Highway won&#8217;t close immediately. Rather, it has triggered a long process requiring local planning and state approval to eventually close it down.

After the passage, the Great Highway won't close immediately. Rather, it has triggered a long process requiring local planning and state approval to eventually close it down.

After the passage, the Great Highway won&#8217;t close immediately. Rather, it has triggered a long process requiring local planning and state approval to eventually close it down.

Prop. K passes; stretch of Great Highway will close to cars

After a March primary election that was <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/election-night-winners-and-losers-who-came-out-on-top-in-tuesdays-primary-contest/">dominated by public safety</a>, the upcoming mayoral contest appears to be quickly pivoting to another issue San Franciscans often disagree on.

Election night winners and losers: Who came out on top in Tuesday&#8217;s voting?

After a March primary election that was <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/election-night-winners-and-losers-who-came-out-on-top-in-tuesdays-primary-contest/">dominated by public safety</a>, the upcoming mayoral contest appears to be quickly pivoting to another issue San Franciscans often disagree on.

You guessed it: Housing. And, for now, the people clamoring to build more of it are on the back foot.

You guessed it: Housing. And, for now, the people clamoring to build more of it are on the back foot.

On Tuesday, seven supervisors stood behind Board President Aaron Peskin and his legislation that seeks to preserve a handful of blocks in Telegraph Hill, an area home to some buildings dating back to the Gold Rush era. 

On Tuesday, seven supervisors stood behind Board President Aaron Peskin and his legislation that seeks to preserve a handful of blocks in Telegraph Hill, an area home to some buildings dating back to the Gold Rush era.

The supervisors who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/04/aaron-peskin-san-francisco-mayor-race/">supported the expected mayoral candidate</a> in his housing bill—and struck down an earlier veto from Mayor London Breed—included those who are not even staunch allies of Peskin.&nbsp;

Aaron Peskin sees ‘a lane’ to winning San Francisco mayor’s race

The supervisors who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/04/aaron-peskin-san-francisco-mayor-race/">supported the expected mayoral candidate</a> in his housing bill—and struck down an earlier veto from Mayor London Breed—included those who are not even staunch allies of Peskin.&nbsp;

“All politics and no policy,” Supervisor Rafael Mandelman described the situation during Tuesday’s meeting—a surprising barb thrown at the mayor. “The area actually at issue here is tiny.”

“All politics and no policy,” Supervisor Rafael Mandelman described the situation during Tuesday’s meeting—a surprising barb thrown at the mayor. “The area actually at issue here is tiny.”

San Francisco Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, right, listens during a meeting at the Supervisors Chambers at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The Board of Supervisors are expected to pass Peskin's housing legislation again after a veto from Mayor Breed earlier this month.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/20240326-mayorveto_eg_017.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in glasses, focused and resting his chin on his hand, sits amidst blurred figures in a formal meeting room setting." class="wp-image-262729"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Supervisor Rafael Mandelman was among the lawmakers who sided with Board President Aaron Peskin&#8217;s effort to restrict density in part of his district. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/20240326-mayorveto_eg_017.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in glasses, focused and resting his chin on his hand, sits amidst blurred figures in a formal meeting room setting." class="wp-image-262729"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Supervisor Rafael Mandelman was among the lawmakers who sided with Board President Aaron Peskin's effort to restrict density in part of his district. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/20240326-mayorveto_eg_017.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in glasses, focused and resting his chin on his hand, sits amidst blurred figures in a formal meeting room setting." class="wp-image-262729"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Supervisor Rafael Mandelman was among the lawmakers who sided with Board President Aaron Peskin&#8217;s effort to restrict density in part of his district. </figcaption></figure>

The moment was a defeat for Breed, who promised in her State of the City speech this month that she would block any legislation that crossed her desk she deemed as “anti-housing.” For Breed, the veto may go down as a political gamble that offers Peskin—or another progressive challenger in the mayoral race—a leg up this November.

The moment was a defeat for Breed, who promised in her State of the City speech this month that she would block any legislation that crossed her desk she deemed as “anti-housing.” For Breed, the veto may go down as a political gamble that offers Peskin—or another progressive challenger in the mayoral race—a leg up this November.

It also marked a setback for YIMBYs, who have racked up considerable political wins in recent years but are now facing more resistance—even from some lawmakers in the city’s moderate camp.

It also marked a setback for YIMBYs, who have racked up considerable political wins in recent years but are now facing more resistance—even from some lawmakers in the city’s moderate camp.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happened">What happened?</h2>

core/heading

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happened">What happened?</h2>

At the end of February, the board approved Peskin’s housing legislation in an 8-3 vote, with Supervisors Joel Engardio, Myrna Melgar and Matt Dorsey dissenting.&nbsp;

At the end of February, the board approved Peskin’s housing legislation in an 8-3 vote, with Supervisors Joel Engardio, Myrna Melgar and Matt Dorsey dissenting.&nbsp;

The legislation comes after Peskin and Breed last summer teamed up to encourage <a href="https://sfplanning.org/project/downtown-adaptive-reuse-program#:~:text=New">housing development in the northeastern corner of the city</a> through the streamlining of office space to residential conversions.

The legislation comes after Peskin and Breed last summer teamed up to encourage <a href="https://sfplanning.org/project/downtown-adaptive-reuse-program#:~:text=New">housing development in the northeastern corner of the city</a> through the streamlining of office space to residential conversions.

However, Peskin says state law would have allowed for extra-large residential towers to bulldoze areas he considers vital to the city’s past: the Jackson Square and Northeast Waterfront historic districts. His efforts come after a spate of moves that have angered his critics, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/07/supervisors-strike-down-challenge-to-pacific-heights-library-redevelopment/">including being the sole vote in favor of blocking a redevelopment project in Pacific Heights in February.</a>

Supervisors strike down challenge to Pacific Heights library redevelopment 

However, Peskin says state law would have allowed for extra-large residential towers to bulldoze areas he considers vital to the city’s past: the Jackson Square and Northeast Waterfront historic districts. His efforts come after a spate of moves that have angered his critics, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/07/supervisors-strike-down-challenge-to-pacific-heights-library-redevelopment/">including being the sole vote in favor of blocking a redevelopment project in Pacific Heights in February.</a>

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