Gabe Greschler

Noah Baustin

Facing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/22/san-francisco-dream-keeper-intiative-black-community-whistleblower/">questions over how a program</a> meant to support San Francisco’s Black community has spent its money, Sheryl Davis, head of the Dream Keeper Initiative, has asked for a full audit.

SF pledged $120M to help Black residents. The money’s gone in some strange directions

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<p>Facing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/22/san-francisco-dream-keeper-intiative-black-community-whistleblower/">questions over how a program</a> meant to support San Francisco’s Black community has spent its money, Sheryl Davis, head of the Dream Keeper Initiative, has asked for a full audit.</p>

In a letter dated Sept. 4 that was obtained by The Standard, Davis asks San Francisco Controller Greg Wagner to investigate spending across all city departments that manage Dream Keeper Initiative money and report on the program’s funds, operations, and performance.

<p>In a letter dated Sept. 4 that was obtained by The Standard, Davis asks San Francisco Controller Greg Wagner to investigate spending across all city departments that manage Dream Keeper Initiative money and report on the program’s funds, operations, and performance.</p>

The audit request comes as the Dream Keeper Initiative — which was spurred during the nationwide racial reckoning that followed the 2020 murder of George Floyd — is facing scrutiny over how millions of dollars have been spent.&nbsp;

<p>The audit request comes as the Dream Keeper Initiative — which was spurred during the nationwide racial reckoning that followed the 2020 murder of George Floyd — is facing scrutiny over how millions of dollars have been spent.&nbsp;</p>

In an interview Wednesday, Davis confirmed that she had been in conversation with the controller’s office about an audit of the Dream Keeper Initiative. She said her audit request was not in response to a specific instance of wrongdoing but, rather, to get a sense of how well the initiative is executing its work.

<p>In an interview Wednesday, Davis confirmed that she had been in conversation with the controller’s office about an audit of the Dream Keeper Initiative. She said her audit request was not in response to a specific instance of wrongdoing but, rather, to get a sense of how well the initiative is executing its work.</p>

“We wanted to do an audit just so we can know what works and where there are challenges,” Davis said. “That money was spread out across the city. We are trying to see what each different department did.”

<p>“We wanted to do an audit just so we can know what works and where there are challenges,” Davis said. “That money was spread out across the city. We are trying to see what each different department did.”</p>

Led by Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Shamann Walton, city leaders in July 2020 <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-million-from-15447811.php">proposed</a> shifting money away from local law enforcement to fund economic and cultural development in San Francisco’s Black communities. Officials in February 2021 <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Here-s-how-San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-15980236.php">rolled out a more detailed plan</a>, dubbed the Dream Keeper Initiative, calling for a $60 million annual investment.

<p>Led by Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Shamann Walton, city leaders in July 2020 <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-million-from-15447811.php">proposed</a> shifting money away from local law enforcement to fund economic and cultural development in San Francisco’s Black communities. Officials in February 2021 <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Here-s-how-San-Francisco-plans-to-redirect-120-15980236.php">rolled out a more detailed plan</a>, dubbed the Dream Keeper Initiative, calling for a $60 million annual investment.</p>

In the current budget, which runs from July of this year to June 2025, Mayor London Breed scaled back Dream Keeper funding to about $45 million.

<p>In the current budget, which runs from July of this year to June 2025, Mayor London Breed scaled back Dream Keeper funding to about $45 million.</p>

Representatives of the controller’s office and the mayor’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the call for an audit.

<p>Representatives of the controller’s office and the mayor’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the call for an audit.</p>

Mayor London Breed makes remarks during a press conference at City Hall in San Francisco on Friday, Aug. 23, 2024. Phil Kim was appointed president of the San Francisco school board after Lainie Motamedi resigned.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240823-schoolboardresign_429-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman in a teal outfit is speaking at a podium. Behind her are the American flag and the California state flag featuring a bear. She gestures with her right hand." class="wp-image-304377"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Shamann Walton created the Dream Keeper Initiative in the wake of the murder of George Floyd in summer 2020.</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240823-schoolboardresign_429-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman in a teal outfit is speaking at a podium. Behind her are the American flag and the California state flag featuring a bear. She gestures with her right hand." class="wp-image-304377"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Shamann Walton created the Dream Keeper Initiative in the wake of the murder of George Floyd in summer 2020.</figcaption></figure>

The Dream Keeper budget has been divided among 11 city departments, with the largest shares going to the Office of Economic and Workforce Development, the Department of Public Health, and the Human Rights Commission.

<p>The Dream Keeper budget has been divided among 11 city departments, with the largest shares going to the Office of Economic and Workforce Development, the Department of Public Health, and the Human Rights Commission.</p>

However, The Standard reported in July that some of the community partners involved in Dream Keeper have left money unspent. A city dashboard intended to show the program’s spending has not been regularly updated, while some funding recipients have spent money in ways that raised eyebrows among city officials.&nbsp;

<p>However, The Standard reported in July that some of the community partners involved in Dream Keeper have left money unspent. A city dashboard intended to show the program’s spending has not been regularly updated, while some funding recipients have spent money in ways that raised eyebrows among city officials.&nbsp;</p>

One recipient of Dream Keeper money, J&amp;J Community Resource Center, made headlines after its director <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/27/nonprofit-accused-of-swindling-city-in-100k-scheme-involving-cigars-and-liquor/">tried to get booze and cigars reimbursed</a>. SF Black Wall Street, a program that promotes Black entrepreneurship, spent more than $700,000 on two Juneteenth parties —&nbsp;surpassing the $660,000 it had spent on grants for small businesses. A director of the entrepreneurship program, Tinisch Hollins, was also found to have redirected tens of thousands of dollars in administrative fees toward a shell company she created.

Cigars, booze and motorcycles: Nonprofit accused of swindling city in $100K scheme

<p>One recipient of Dream Keeper money, J&amp;J Community Resource Center, made headlines after its director <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/27/nonprofit-accused-of-swindling-city-in-100k-scheme-involving-cigars-and-liquor/">tried to get booze and cigars reimbursed</a>. SF Black Wall Street, a program that promotes Black entrepreneurship, spent more than $700,000 on two Juneteenth parties —&nbsp;surpassing the $660,000 it had spent on grants for small businesses. A director of the entrepreneurship program, Tinisch Hollins, was also found to have redirected tens of thousands of dollars in administrative fees toward a shell company she created.</p>

Sheryl Evans Davis, Executive Director, SF Human Rights Commission speaks at the second annual Dream Keeper Initiative celebration and call to action, “Dreaming Forward: A Celebration of Black Joy, Power, and Excellence” at the Commonwealth Club Thursday, February 9, 2023.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dreamkeeperinitiative_01.jpg?w=1807" alt="A woman with long hair speaks into a microphone. She is wearing a plaid blazer with a blue shirt and gesturing with both hands. The background is a blue screen with &quot;DREAM&quot; text." class="wp-image-287848"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Davis has called for an audit of the Dream Keeper Initiative after questions were raised about its spending.</figcaption></figure>


Last month, the San Francisco Chronicle <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/black-male-teacher-sf-19610574.php">reported</a> that Urban Ed Academy, which received Dream Keeper Initiative funds, had hired few teachers in the city; instead, many of the jobs benefitted Oakland nonprofits or public schools.&nbsp;

<p>Last month, the San Francisco Chronicle <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/black-male-teacher-sf-19610574.php">reported</a> that Urban Ed Academy, which received Dream Keeper Initiative funds, had hired few teachers in the city; instead, many of the jobs benefitted Oakland nonprofits or public schools.&nbsp;</p>

Davis, who also leads the SF Human Rights Commission, is the subject of a whistleblower complaint containing 20 allegations of impropriety, The Standard reported in July.&nbsp;

<p>Davis, who also leads the SF Human Rights Commission, is the subject of a whistleblower complaint containing 20 allegations of impropriety, The Standard reported in July.&nbsp;</p>

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In a prior interview with The Standard, Davis admitted that mistakes had been made with the Dream Keeper Initiative but said no illegal conduct had been identified.&nbsp;

<p>In a prior interview with The Standard, Davis admitted that mistakes had been made with the Dream Keeper Initiative but said no illegal conduct had been identified.&nbsp;</p>

Davis’ Human Rights Commission plans on providing an update about the Dream Keeper Initiative to the Board of Supervisors, though the Sept. 4 letter did not specify a date. A special meeting on Thursday will be held to discuss the initiative with Human Rights Commission members.

<p>Davis’ Human Rights Commission plans on providing an update about the Dream Keeper Initiative to the Board of Supervisors, though the Sept. 4 letter did not specify a date. A special meeting on Thursday will be held to discuss the initiative with Human Rights Commission members.</p>

Under scrutiny, SF official asks for audit of programs for Black residents

Michael Barba

District Attorney Brooke Jenkins on Monday accused a San Francisco supervisor of interfering with the judicial process by urging her to consider charging the security guard <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/walgreens-killing-heres-what-we-know-about-banko-browns-shooting-by-a-security-guard/">who fatally shot 24-year-old Banko Brown at Walgreens</a>.

<p>District Attorney Brooke Jenkins on Monday accused a San Francisco supervisor of interfering with the judicial process by urging her to consider charging the security guard <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/walgreens-killing-heres-what-we-know-about-banko-browns-shooting-by-a-security-guard/">who fatally shot 24-year-old Banko Brown at Walgreens</a>.</p>

Jenkins blasted the supervisor, Shamann Walton, for pressuring her to reconsider not charging security guard Michael Earl-Wayne Anthony in the April 27 killing outside the Walgreens near Market and Fourth streets.

<p>Jenkins blasted the supervisor, Shamann Walton, for pressuring her to reconsider not charging security guard Michael Earl-Wayne Anthony in the April 27 killing outside the Walgreens near Market and Fourth streets.</p>

Jenkins has said there was evidence that Anthony believed he was in “mortal danger” and acted in self-defense. Brown, however, was unarmed. The DA has sent the case back to police for further investigation without charging Anthony, resulting in his release from jail.

<p>Jenkins has said there was evidence that Anthony believed he was in “mortal danger” and acted in self-defense. Brown, however, was unarmed. The DA has sent the case back to police for further investigation without charging Anthony, resulting in his release from jail.</p>

Walton issued a letter of inquiry to Jenkins calling on her to “reconsider and reevaluate” her charging decision in the high-profile case and to release video evidence of the shooting.

<p>Walton issued a letter of inquiry to Jenkins calling on her to “reconsider and reevaluate” her charging decision in the high-profile case and to release video evidence of the shooting.</p>

Jenkins responded with a letter of her own to the supervisor.

<p>Jenkins responded with a letter of her own to the supervisor.</p>

“Such a request is wholly inappropriate and dangerous to the interests of justice and a fair criminal justice system for all the people,” Jenkins wrote to Walton in the letter, which was obtained by The Standard.

<p>“Such a request is wholly inappropriate and dangerous to the interests of justice and a fair criminal justice system for all the people,” Jenkins wrote to Walton in the letter, which was obtained by The Standard.</p>

Jenkins said releasing video of the shooting could compromise the investigation and would be unethical.

<p>Jenkins said releasing video of the shooting could compromise the investigation and would be unethical.</p>

But Walton disputed the claims Jenkins levied against him.

<p>But Walton disputed the claims Jenkins levied against him.</p>

“I disagree with her opinions and have been informed that there is no interference at all with my request and it is not at all unethical,” Walton responded in a message to Jenkins, which he forwarded to The Standard. “Videos are released all the time during investigations.

<p>“I disagree with her opinions and have been informed that there is no interference at all with my request and it is not at all unethical,” Walton responded in a message to Jenkins, which he forwarded to The Standard. “Videos are released all the time during investigations.</p>

“We are asking for transparency around the killing and release of the video most certainly helps with that transparency,” he continued. “I hope she will reconsider.”

<p>“We are asking for transparency around the killing and release of the video most certainly helps with that transparency,” he continued. “I hope she will reconsider.”</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-speculation-and-conjecture">&#8216;Speculation and Conjecture&#8217;</h2>


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<h2 id="h-speculation-and-conjecture">'Speculation and Conjecture'</h2>

<h2 id="h-speculation-and-conjecture">&#8216;Speculation and Conjecture&#8217;</h2>

In her letter, Jenkins accused Walton of reacting to “speculation and conjecture” and said she would not take official action in response to political pressure.

<p>In her letter, Jenkins accused Walton of reacting to “speculation and conjecture” and said she would not take official action in response to political pressure.</p>

“Political prosecution is the enemy of a fair and equitable criminal justice system,” Jenkins wrote. “Prosecutorial discretion cannot and should not be abused for the sake of political expediency.”

<p>“Political prosecution is the enemy of a fair and equitable criminal justice system,” Jenkins wrote. “Prosecutorial discretion cannot and should not be abused for the sake of political expediency.”</p>

She pointed out that like Brown, Anthony is Black. Walton is Black, and Jenkins herself is Black and Latina.

<p>She pointed out that like Brown, Anthony is Black. Walton is Black, and Jenkins herself is Black and Latina.</p>

“Many historical injustices that our community has faced can be traced back to politically motivated prosecutions,” Jenkins said, adding that she would not allow “politics, bias or self-interest” to influence her decision to charge or not to charge.

<p>“Many historical injustices that our community has faced can be traced back to politically motivated prosecutions,” Jenkins said, adding that she would not allow “politics, bias or self-interest” to influence her decision to charge or not to charge.</p>

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Police Chief Bill Scott has said an altercation broke out when Anthony tried to stop Brown for shoplifting. Although <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/walgreens-shooting-guard-who-killed-banko-brown-gives-interview/">Anthony has been released from jail</a>, there is no statute of limitations on murder charges.

<p>Police Chief Bill Scott has said an altercation broke out when Anthony tried to stop Brown for shoplifting. Although <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/walgreens-shooting-guard-who-killed-banko-brown-gives-interview/">Anthony has been released from jail</a>, there is no statute of limitations on murder charges.</p>

Asked if he believed Jenkins should charge Anthony with murder, Walton told The Standard: “I think you should not be able to execute people for misdemeanors. Alleged misdemeanors.”&nbsp;

<p>Asked if he believed Jenkins should charge Anthony with murder, Walton told The Standard: “I think you should not be able to execute people for misdemeanors. Alleged misdemeanors.”&nbsp;</p>

&#8216;This Case Will Be Prosecuted in the Courtroom&#8217;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;This Case Will Be Prosecuted in the Courtroom&#8217;</h2>


<h2>'This Case Will Be Prosecuted in the Courtroom'</h2>

<h2>&#8216;This Case Will Be Prosecuted in the Courtroom&#8217;</h2>

Earlier Monday, Jenkins said that if a final decision to charge is made, &#8220;this case will be prosecuted in the courtroom, not in the press or on social media.&#8221; She also said if her office decides not to bring charges, she will release a report that provides a full accounting of the evidence and how the decision was made.

<p>Earlier Monday, Jenkins said that if a final decision to charge is made, "this case will be prosecuted in the courtroom, not in the press or on social media." She also said if her office decides not to bring charges, she will release a report that provides a full accounting of the evidence and how the decision was made.</p>

<p>Earlier Monday, Jenkins said that if a final decision to charge is made, &#8220;this case will be prosecuted in the courtroom, not in the press or on social media.&#8221; She also said if her office decides not to bring charges, she will release a report that provides a full accounting of the evidence and how the decision was made.</p>

Walton is not the only supervisor calling on Jenkins to release video of the shooting. On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/supervisors-wont-urge-new-charges-in-banko-brown-case-but-call-for-release-of-video/">is expected to vote on a resolution </a>from its president, Aaron Peskin, pressing for its disclosure.

<p>Walton is not the only supervisor calling on Jenkins to release video of the shooting. On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/supervisors-wont-urge-new-charges-in-banko-brown-case-but-call-for-release-of-video/">is expected to vote on a resolution </a>from its president, Aaron Peskin, pressing for its disclosure.</p>

The resolution so far has support from Walton, Joel Engardio, Connie Chan, Hillary Ronen, Myrna Melgar and Dean Preston.

<p>The resolution so far has support from Walton, Joel Engardio, Connie Chan, Hillary Ronen, Myrna Melgar and Dean Preston.</p>

Walgreens killing: DA slams San Francisco supervisor for second-guessing lack of charges

Mike Ege

Tuesday’s San Francisco Board of Supervisors meeting came with a surprise twist at the end as a resolution in support of State Senate Bill 532, which <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/26/bay-area-traffic-bridge-toll-hike-scott-wiener/">would raise Bay Area bridge tolls by $1.50 over the next five years to help fund struggling transit agencies</a>, was kicked back to committee.&nbsp;

Lawmakers float bridge toll hike to save BART, Muni

<p>Tuesday’s San Francisco Board of Supervisors meeting came with a surprise twist at the end as a resolution in support of State Senate Bill 532, which <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/26/bay-area-traffic-bridge-toll-hike-scott-wiener/">would raise Bay Area bridge tolls by $1.50 over the next five years to help fund struggling transit agencies</a>, was kicked back to committee.&nbsp;</p>

Supervisor Shamann Walton, who represents the Bayview and other southeastern neighborhoods, made the motion to send the resolution back to the board’s Land Use and Transportation Committee. Supervisor Connie Chan, who represents the Richmond District, also supported the move.&nbsp;

<p>Supervisor Shamann Walton, who represents the Bayview and other southeastern neighborhoods, made the motion to send the resolution back to the board’s Land Use and Transportation Committee. Supervisor Connie Chan, who represents the Richmond District, also supported the move.&nbsp;</p>

Supervisor Shamann Walton attends the Board of Supervisors meeting within the Board of Supervisors Chambers at City Hall in San Francisco, Calif. on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. | Michaela Vatcheva for The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/022723BOSRoundup-67-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-132366"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Shamann Walton | Michaela Vatcheva for The Standard</figcaption></figure>


The resolution is nonbinding, but Tuesday’s action nevertheless signals pushback against the toll hike bill, sponsored by state Sen. Scott Wiener and transit advocates to save local transit agencies like BART and Muni from a post-Covid “fiscal cliff.”

<p>The resolution is nonbinding, but Tuesday’s action nevertheless signals pushback against the toll hike bill, sponsored by state Sen. Scott Wiener and transit advocates to save local transit agencies like BART and Muni from a post-Covid “fiscal cliff.”</p>

Walton cited the potential negative impacts of a toll hike on low-income people who rely on the bridges to get to jobs or otherwise.&nbsp;

<p>Walton cited the potential negative impacts of a toll hike on low-income people who rely on the bridges to get to jobs or otherwise.&nbsp;</p>

“I am in support of this bill, but it definitely warrants a conversation in committee due to negative impacts on low-income communities, communities of color and people who are struggling,” Walton said Tuesday. “I think that the community should have an opportunity to learn more about its effects.”

<p>“I am in support of this bill, but it definitely warrants a conversation in committee due to negative impacts on low-income communities, communities of color and people who are struggling,” Walton said Tuesday. “I think that the community should have an opportunity to learn more about its effects.”</p>

Ironically, the bill had already garnered support from the San Francisco County Transportation Authority&#8217;s board—whose membership is the same as the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

<p>Ironically, the bill had already garnered support from the San Francisco County Transportation Authority's board—whose membership is the same as the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ironically, the bill had already garnered support from the San Francisco County Transportation Authority&#8217;s board—whose membership is the same as the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;</p>

The transportation authority&#8217;s board voted 7-1 to support SB 532 at its July 11 meeting, with Chan opposed and members Rafael Mandelman, Hillary Ronen and Ahsha Safaí absent.

<p>The transportation authority's board voted 7-1 to support SB 532 at its July 11 meeting, with Chan opposed and members Rafael Mandelman, Hillary Ronen and Ahsha Safaí absent.</p>

<p>The transportation authority&#8217;s board voted 7-1 to support SB 532 at its July 11 meeting, with Chan opposed and members Rafael Mandelman, Hillary Ronen and Ahsha Safaí absent.</p>

Sending the resolution back to committee means that the full board likely won’t be able to weigh in on the bill until it returns from recess in September, by which time the Senate vote may have already taken place, something Mandelman pointed out Tuesday.&nbsp;

<p>Sending the resolution back to committee means that the full board likely won’t be able to weigh in on the bill until it returns from recess in September, by which time the Senate vote may have already taken place, something Mandelman pointed out Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

“I guess I would be curious what the expectation would be in terms of what might be presented at a committee hearing on this, assuming it&#8217;s still live when we come back in September,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;

<p>“I guess I would be curious what the expectation would be in terms of what might be presented at a committee hearing on this, assuming it's still live when we come back in September,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I guess I would be curious what the expectation would be in terms of what might be presented at a committee hearing on this, assuming it&#8217;s still live when we come back in September,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;</p>

Meanwhile, Chan reiterated her opposition.&nbsp;

<p>Meanwhile, Chan reiterated her opposition.&nbsp;</p>

Supervisor Connie Chan at the Board of Supervisors meeting in San Francisco, Calif., on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/HousingLawsuit_FEATURE.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-63719"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Connie Chan | Juliana Yamada/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


“I continue to not support the bridge toll increase … a lot of essential workers do come to San Francisco, not just through public transportation but by driving as well, [and the] bridge toll is going to be burdensome financially for many.”

<p>“I continue to not support the bridge toll increase … a lot of essential workers do come to San Francisco, not just through public transportation but by driving as well, [and the] bridge toll is going to be burdensome financially for many.”</p>

Chan also referenced remarks made by San Francisco Chief Economist Ted Egan in <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/economic-recovery-doom-loop-18186158.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a July 6 San Francisco Chronicle interview</a>, where he said that raising bridge tolls “could exacerbate the problem of Downtown.”&nbsp;

<p>Chan also referenced remarks made by San Francisco Chief Economist Ted Egan in <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/economic-recovery-doom-loop-18186158.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a July 6 San Francisco Chronicle interview</a>, where he said that raising bridge tolls “could exacerbate the problem of Downtown.”&nbsp;</p>

The opposition from Chan and Walton, or at least his constituents, also reflects the historical transportation patterns of their districts: Richmond dwellers <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/05/chan-proposes-cars-back-on-jfk-drive-heading-east-only/">continue to prefer driving</a>, and Bayview residents maintain <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/03/30/supervisor-walton-car-free-jfk-golden-gate-park-segregationist/">their community is still underserved by transit</a>.&nbsp;

Chan proposes cars return to JFK Drive—heading east only

Supervisor Shamann Walton on why he believes car-free JFK is &#8216;segregationist&#8217; policy

<p>The opposition from Chan and Walton, or at least his constituents, also reflects the historical transportation patterns of their districts: Richmond dwellers <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/05/chan-proposes-cars-back-on-jfk-drive-heading-east-only/">continue to prefer driving</a>, and Bayview residents maintain <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/03/30/supervisor-walton-car-free-jfk-golden-gate-park-segregationist/">their community is still underserved by transit</a>.&nbsp;</p>

Both Walton and Chan were also on the opposing side of another contentious issue that pit transit riders versus car drivers. That was last year’s successful campaign to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/08/war-jfk-drive-de-young-museum-san-francisco-kids-safe-fine-arts-museum/">permanently close John F. Kennedy Drive in Golden Gate Park</a> to automotive traffic.&nbsp;

War for JFK Drive: How a museum&#8217;s money is shaping the fight over San Francisco&#8217;s most controversial street

<p>Both Walton and Chan were also on the opposing side of another contentious issue that pit transit riders versus car drivers. That was last year’s successful campaign to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/08/war-jfk-drive-de-young-museum-san-francisco-kids-safe-fine-arts-museum/">permanently close John F. Kennedy Drive in Golden Gate Park</a> to automotive traffic.&nbsp;</p>

SB 532 would hike the toll for most regional bridges by $1.50 over five years, raising up to $900 million in lifeline funding for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/06/san-francisco-transit-resolution-avoid-death-spiral/">area transit agencies facing post-Covid “death spirals,”</a> where service cuts further depress ridership and revenue in a cycle of diminishing returns.

As BART, Muni ‘death spiral’ looms, San Francisco supervisors plead for state aid

<p>SB 532 would hike the toll for most regional bridges by $1.50 over five years, raising up to $900 million in lifeline funding for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/06/san-francisco-transit-resolution-avoid-death-spiral/">area transit agencies facing post-Covid “death spirals,”</a> where service cuts further depress ridership and revenue in a cycle of diminishing returns.</p>

San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency director Jeffrey Tumlin has said that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/26/lawmaker-appeals-to-gov-newsom-for-5b-in-transit-funding/">the fiscal cliff his agency faces in 2025</a> would necessitate cutting up to 20 Muni bus system lines as early as this summer.&nbsp;

Muni may need to cut 20 lines. Could $5B state plan save San Francisco buses?

<p>San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency director Jeffrey Tumlin has said that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/26/lawmaker-appeals-to-gov-newsom-for-5b-in-transit-funding/">the fiscal cliff his agency faces in 2025</a> would necessitate cutting up to 20 Muni bus system lines as early as this summer.&nbsp;</p>

California State Senator Scott Wiener speaks during the official opening of the new Bus Rapid Transit corridor on Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco on April 1, 2022. 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/020823SFMTAfiscalhelp_SOCIALIMAGE-e1689295598625.jpg?w=1800" alt="" class="wp-image-123792"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">California State Senator Scott Wiener speaks during the official opening of the new Bus Rapid Transit corridor on Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco on April 1, 2022. | Nick Otto</figcaption></figure>


SB 532 sponsor Wiener, responding to Tuesday’s events, told The Standard that his office was “already working to include equitable tolling measures in the bill, and we’re looking to include more. I’m confident we’ll be able to address the concerns raised by [Chan and Walton].”

<p>SB 532 sponsor Wiener, responding to Tuesday’s events, told The Standard that his office was “already working to include equitable tolling measures in the bill, and we’re looking to include more. I’m confident we’ll be able to address the concerns raised by [Chan and Walton].”</p>

He added, “We can all agree that the real equity disaster would be to allow public transportation in the Bay Area to collapse, which is the scenario we introduced SB 532 to prevent.”

<p>He added, “We can all agree that the real equity disaster would be to allow public transportation in the Bay Area to collapse, which is the scenario we introduced SB 532 to prevent.”</p>

Bridge toll hikes: 2 San Francisco lawmakers push back

Josh Koehn

No longer encumbered by a reelection campaign or the responsibilities of being president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=shamann%20walton">Shamann Walton</a> is showing the full breadth of his interests.

<p>No longer encumbered by a reelection campaign or the responsibilities of being president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=shamann%20walton">Shamann Walton</a> is showing the full breadth of his interests.</p>

On the way to winning a second term last November, the District 10 supervisor released a rap video called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGCN6UdbRvI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“My Reelection”</a> set to the same R&amp;B tune sampled by Notorious B.I.G. in his 1994 hit “Juicy.” He co-wrote an autobiography published in February titled <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Juvenile-Hall-City-Resume-Change/dp/1960377485"><em>From Juvenile Hall to City Hall: Your Resume Can Change</em></a>. The natural next step was stand-up comedy. He performed a set Saturday night at the Potrero Hill dive bar and dance club Il Pirata.

<p>On the way to winning a second term last November, the District 10 supervisor released a rap video called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGCN6UdbRvI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“My Reelection”</a> set to the same R&amp;B tune sampled by Notorious B.I.G. in his 1994 hit “Juicy.” He co-wrote an autobiography published in February titled <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Juvenile-Hall-City-Resume-Change/dp/1960377485"><em>From Juvenile Hall to City Hall: Your Resume Can Change</em></a>. The natural next step was stand-up comedy. He performed a set Saturday night at the Potrero Hill dive bar and dance club Il Pirata.</p>

Dressed in jeans, two-tone Nikes and a flat-brim SF baseball cap, Walton looked relaxed before a packed crowd of folks who had paid $30 a pop to get in. After signing copies of his book, Walton paced the small stage, riffing on topics from the media&#8217;s treatment of him to white people’s fondness for bragging about their “Black friends.”

<p>Dressed in jeans, two-tone Nikes and a flat-brim SF baseball cap, Walton looked relaxed before a packed crowd of folks who had paid $30 a pop to get in. After signing copies of his book, Walton paced the small stage, riffing on topics from the media's treatment of him to white people’s fondness for bragging about their “Black friends.”</p>

<p>Dressed in jeans, two-tone Nikes and a flat-brim SF baseball cap, Walton looked relaxed before a packed crowd of folks who had paid $30 a pop to get in. After signing copies of his book, Walton paced the small stage, riffing on topics from the media&#8217;s treatment of him to white people’s fondness for bragging about their “Black friends.”</p>

core/video

Walton admitted he’s been rehearsing all week and listened to gospel music on the way to the show to calm his nerves.&nbsp;

<p>Walton admitted he’s been rehearsing all week and listened to gospel music on the way to the show to calm his nerves.&nbsp;</p>

“I’m nervous because if I say the wrong shit, I won’t have no job on Monday,” said Walton to laughs from the crowd.

<p>“I’m nervous because if I say the wrong shit, I won’t have no job on Monday,” said Walton to laughs from the crowd.</p>

Walton also drew chuckles by promising not to use the N-word, a reference to a controversy last year in which the supervisor drew criticism for repeatedly using the word during <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/08/02/sheriffs-cadet-supervisor-shamann-walton-n-word-racial-slur/">a verbal confrontation with a sheriff’s cadet at City Hall</a>. That pledge didn’t last long, though.

Sheriff’s cadet: Supervisor Walton using N-word was ‘rude, disrespectful no matter what color you are’

<p>Walton also drew chuckles by promising not to use the N-word, a reference to a controversy last year in which the supervisor drew criticism for repeatedly using the word during <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/08/02/sheriffs-cadet-supervisor-shamann-walton-n-word-racial-slur/">a verbal confrontation with a sheriff’s cadet at City Hall</a>. That pledge didn’t last long, though.</p>

During his 10-minute set, the supervisor poked fun at environmentally conscious virtue-signalers who think everything needs to be “green.” Walton said someone once asked him if his job was green.&nbsp;

<p>During his 10-minute set, the supervisor poked fun at environmentally conscious virtue-signalers who think everything needs to be “green.” Walton said someone once asked him if his job was green.&nbsp;</p>

“Motherfucka, I don’t know,” he said. “The money green. Shit.”

<p>“Motherfucka, I don’t know,” he said. “The money green. Shit.”</p>

He added that he doesn’t care what the media says about him. Still, Walton couldn’t resist firing back in response to allegations in the press in February that he had single handedly delayed a much-anticipated hearing on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/14/supervisors-review-reparations-plan-and-police-business/">reparations</a> for San Francisco’s Black community by taking a weeklong vacation <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/02/06/sf-supervisor-parties-at-colombian-hooters-delays-reparations-hearing/">in Colombia</a> that included a stop at a Hooters restaurant in Medellín.

SF supervisors accept reparations plan for Black residents

SF supervisor parties at Colombian Hooters, delays reparations hearing

<p>He added that he doesn’t care what the media says about him. Still, Walton couldn’t resist firing back in response to allegations in the press in February that he had single handedly delayed a much-anticipated hearing on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/14/supervisors-review-reparations-plan-and-police-business/">reparations</a> for San Francisco’s Black community by taking a weeklong vacation <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/02/06/sf-supervisor-parties-at-colombian-hooters-delays-reparations-hearing/">in Colombia</a> that included a stop at a Hooters restaurant in Medellín.</p>

“What did the media say? ‘Supervisor Walton does not come to hearing because he was partying in Colombia and set reparations back,’” he said. “How the fuck I set reparations back? What about them 300 motherfucking other years?”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>“What did the media say? ‘Supervisor Walton does not come to hearing because he was partying in Colombia and set reparations back,’” he said. “How the fuck I set reparations back? What about them 300 motherfucking other years?”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

The supervisor ended his set by thanking everyone for coming and promising, “I’m going to make sure that we cure the homeless problem.

<p>The supervisor ended his set by thanking everyone for coming and promising, “I’m going to make sure that we cure the homeless problem.</p>

“You all know when I’m gonna get it done?&#8221; he said. &#8220;Eventually.”

<p>“You all know when I’m gonna get it done?" he said. "Eventually.”</p>

<p>“You all know when I’m gonna get it done?&#8221; he said. &#8220;Eventually.”</p>

San Francisco supervisor jokes about being fired in stand-up comedy debut

Video from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/event-honoring-victims-of-police-violence-turns-to-shouting-match/">a protest last week over police violence</a> shows San Francisco Supervisor Shamann Walton standing on the steps of City Hall and flipping his middle finger at a protester before being restrained to prevent the confrontation from escalating.

<p>Video from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/event-honoring-victims-of-police-violence-turns-to-shouting-match/">a protest last week over police violence</a> shows San Francisco Supervisor Shamann Walton standing on the steps of City Hall and flipping his middle finger at a protester before being restrained to prevent the confrontation from escalating.</p>

The incident was documented in an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoVcidNvZOG/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Instagram</a> post, and occurred just hours before <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-supervisor-parties-at-colombian-hooters-delays-reparations-hearing/">Walton flew to Colombia for a nearly weeklong birthday bash with his friends</a>. That trip, which was apparently extended by flight delays, caused the postponement of a long-anticipated hearing on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/will-san-franciscos-case-for-reparations-light-the-match/">reparations for the Black community</a>.

<p>The incident was documented in an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoVcidNvZOG/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Instagram</a> post, and occurred just hours before <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-supervisor-parties-at-colombian-hooters-delays-reparations-hearing/">Walton flew to Colombia for a nearly weeklong birthday bash with his friends</a>. That trip, which was apparently extended by flight delays, caused the postponement of a long-anticipated hearing on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/will-san-franciscos-case-for-reparations-light-the-match/">reparations for the Black community</a>.</p>

Video of last week’s confrontation shows a man with a megaphone challenging Walton for being an inauthentic champion of the Black community. The event was organized to honor the life of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who was brutally beaten to death by Memphis police. However, protesters who attended the event at City Hall challenged local leaders over their response to police killings here in San Francisco.

<p>Video of last week’s confrontation shows a man with a megaphone challenging Walton for being an inauthentic champion of the Black community. The event was organized to honor the life of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who was brutally beaten to death by Memphis police. However, protesters who attended the event at City Hall challenged local leaders over their response to police killings here in San Francisco.</p>

<strong>READ MORE:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-supervisor-parties-at-colombian-hooters-delays-reparations-hearing/">SF Supervisor Parties at Colombian Hooters, Delays Reparations Hearing</a>

<p><strong>READ MORE:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-supervisor-parties-at-colombian-hooters-delays-reparations-hearing/">SF Supervisor Parties at Colombian Hooters, Delays Reparations Hearing</a></p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoVcidNvZOG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoVcidNvZOG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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The video shows the man with a megaphone saying to Walton, “Talk about Tyre but don’t talk about all these bodies in San Francisco? You a punk, Shamann.” Walton steps forward and gestures the middle finger at the man before being pulled away by multiple people.

<p>The video shows the man with a megaphone saying to Walton, “Talk about Tyre but don’t talk about all these bodies in San Francisco? You a punk, Shamann.” Walton steps forward and gestures the middle finger at the man before being pulled away by multiple people.</p>

In a statement, Walton’s office apologized and said the supervisor’s actions were wrong while also accusing the man of harassing, stalking and threatening Walton.

<p>In a statement, Walton’s office apologized and said the supervisor’s actions were wrong while also accusing the man of harassing, stalking and threatening Walton.</p>

Search Results for: shamann walton

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