Sarah Wright

With the clock ticking on a state mandate to allow the creation of 82,000 more housing units over the next decade in a city that desperately needs them, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, rather than finding new ways to build housing, continues to make moves that discourage new construction.

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With the clock ticking on a state mandate to allow the creation of 82,000 more housing units over the next decade in a city that desperately needs them, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, rather than finding new ways to build housing, continues to make moves that discourage new construction.

The latest escapade involves a bill to allow fourplexes to be built on all residential lots, an effort prompted by a new state law that outlaws single-family zoning. The board’s Land Use and Transportation Committee will take up the bill again Monday after punting on the issue earlier this month, but there’s little hope that the end result will be more housing.

The latest escapade involves a bill to allow fourplexes to be built on all residential lots, an effort prompted by a new state law that outlaws single-family zoning. The board’s Land Use and Transportation Committee will take up the bill again Monday after punting on the issue earlier this month, but there’s little hope that the end result will be more housing.

That’s because the debate has not centered on how to encourage people to build fourplexes, but rather on what kinds of affordability and rent-control requirements should apply if these units do indeed get built. Such mandates, included in competing fourplex proposals, are all but certain to make any such developments economically infeasible, developers and economists say.

That’s because the debate has not centered on how to encourage people to build fourplexes, but rather on what kinds of affordability and rent-control requirements should apply if these units do indeed get built. Such mandates, included in competing fourplex proposals, are all but certain to make any such developments economically infeasible, developers and economists say.

“It’s absurd,” said Michael Harris, a local architect who is working with a family that is taking advantage of the new state law to build an in-law unit and expand a home on Seneca Avenue. Harris said that if his client had to comply with affordability requirements, the project would have been dead before it even began. “You know how much it costs to build in San Francisco? If the city wants affordable stuff, the city should pay for it.”

“It’s absurd,” said Michael Harris, a local architect who is working with a family that is taking advantage of the new state law to build an in-law unit and expand a home on Seneca Avenue. Harris said that if his client had to comply with affordability requirements, the project would have been dead before it even began. “You know how much it costs to build in San Francisco? If the city wants affordable stuff, the city should pay for it.”

Supervisor Aaron Peskin is also working to pair any fourplex bill with legislation that would restrict the development of some cheaper, dorm-like group housing projects in parts of the city—restrictions that would be illegal under state law unless they are accompanied by the loosening of zoning restrictions elsewhere (such as allowing fourplexes).&nbsp;

Supervisor Aaron Peskin is also working to pair any fourplex bill with legislation that would restrict the development of some cheaper, dorm-like group housing projects in parts of the city—restrictions that would be illegal under state law unless they are accompanied by the loosening of zoning restrictions elsewhere (such as allowing fourplexes).&nbsp;

The end result, according to advocates of more construction, is likely to be few, if any, fourplexes, fewer group housing projects and zero progress on the housing crisis.

The end result, according to advocates of more construction, is likely to be few, if any, fourplexes, fewer group housing projects and zero progress on the housing crisis.

The board has also yet to grapple with the next phase of the state-mandated effort—<a href="https://www.sfweekly.com/news/bay-area-takes-step-toward-major-housing-growth/">led by the city’s own state legislator, Sen. Scott Wiener</a>—to ease restrictive zoning and boost housing production: allowing taller buildings on major thoroughfares in the western part of the city and allowing more multi-family buildings near all transit corridors.

The board has also yet to grapple with the next phase of the state-mandated effort—<a href="https://www.sfweekly.com/news/bay-area-takes-step-toward-major-housing-growth/">led by the city’s own state legislator, Sen. Scott Wiener</a>—to ease restrictive zoning and boost housing production: allowing taller buildings on major thoroughfares in the western part of the city and allowing more multi-family buildings near all transit corridors.

Progressive supervisors maintain that they are working as hard as they can to get affordable housing built, pointing out that it&#8217;s that segment of the market where the city is failing to meet state mandates. They say efforts to promote the construction of housing at all affordability levels might increase the housing supply for wealthier households but do little to chip away at high costs for the city’s lower wage earners.

Progressive supervisors maintain that they are working as hard as they can to get affordable housing built, pointing out that it's that segment of the market where the city is failing to meet state mandates. They say efforts to promote the construction of housing at all affordability levels might increase the housing supply for wealthier households but do little to chip away at high costs for the city’s lower wage earners.

Progressive supervisors maintain that they are working as hard as they can to get affordable housing built, pointing out that it&#8217;s that segment of the market where the city is failing to meet state mandates. They say efforts to promote the construction of housing at all affordability levels might increase the housing supply for wealthier households but do little to chip away at high costs for the city’s lower wage earners.

Those were among the arguments that led the board earlier this year to vote down two large projects totaling over 800 units—nearly 140 of which would have been affordable—that were years in the making and had already been approved by the city’s Planning Commission.&nbsp;

Those were among the arguments that led the board earlier this year to vote down two large projects totaling over 800 units—nearly 140 of which would have been affordable—that were years in the making and had already been approved by the city’s Planning Commission.&nbsp;

Debate rages over market-rate housing&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debate-rages-over-market-rate-housing">Debate rages over market-rate housing&nbsp;</h2>

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<h2 id="h-debate-rages-over-market-rate-housing">Debate rages over market-rate housing&nbsp;</h2>

Housing advocates are livid over what they view as a pattern of smoke and mirrors where the board’s progressive wing shrouds anti-housing policy in language that looks and feels pro-housing or anti-gentrification but isn’t.&nbsp;

Housing advocates are livid over what they view as a pattern of smoke and mirrors where the board’s progressive wing shrouds anti-housing policy in language that looks and feels pro-housing or anti-gentrification but isn’t.&nbsp;

“The Board of Supervisors is a clown car that wants to do everything they can to make it harder to build housing here,” said Corey Smith, deputy director of the Housing Action Coalition. “Saying that you think the only thing we should be building is 100% affordable housing sounds pro-housing to some people, but people who are educated on the issue know that that means you don’t want any housing.”&nbsp;

“The Board of Supervisors is a clown car that wants to do everything they can to make it harder to build housing here,” said Corey Smith, deputy director of the Housing Action Coalition. “Saying that you think the only thing we should be building is 100% affordable housing sounds pro-housing to some people, but people who are educated on the issue know that that means you don’t want any housing.”&nbsp;

Progressive supervisors argue that pro-housing advocates are simply advancing the gentrification agenda of developers and downtown business interests while the city lags on building affordable housing.

Progressive supervisors argue that pro-housing advocates are simply advancing the gentrification agenda of developers and downtown business interests while the city lags on building affordable housing.

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Supervisor Dean Preston, a former tenant-rights lawyer who is vilified by YIMBYs as a housing obstructionist, argues that the YIMBYs are simply carrying the flag for developers and that more market-rate housing will do nothing to solve the affordability crisis.&nbsp;

Supervisor Dean Preston, a former tenant-rights lawyer who is vilified by YIMBYs as a housing obstructionist, argues that the YIMBYs are simply carrying the flag for developers and that more market-rate housing will do nothing to solve the affordability crisis.&nbsp;

“You’re effectively arguing for a trickle-down housing approach,” Preston said. “I think that’s a fairytale that makes sense for developer lobbyists to argue. But as a policymaker, that’s not a solution to affordability in San Francisco.”

“You’re effectively arguing for a trickle-down housing approach,” Preston said. “I think that’s a fairytale that makes sense for developer lobbyists to argue. But as a policymaker, that’s not a solution to affordability in San Francisco.”

Preston cites <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/San-Francisco-s-Proposition-I-tax-increase-on-15699780.php">Proposition I,</a> which he sponsored and which may raise as much as $176 million annually in revenue in its first three years, as an example of a sweeping policy that could actually make housing more affordable in the city. The tax, which was approved by voters in 2019, was sold as a pool of money to allow the city to buy housing units and manage them as part of a portfolio of affordable options.&nbsp;

Preston cites <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/San-Francisco-s-Proposition-I-tax-increase-on-15699780.php">Proposition I,</a> which he sponsored and which may raise as much as $176 million annually in revenue in its first three years, as an example of a sweeping policy that could actually make housing more affordable in the city. The tax, which was approved by voters in 2019, was sold as a pool of money to allow the city to buy housing units and manage them as part of a portfolio of affordable options.&nbsp;

Preston accused Mayor London Breed’s office of refusing to commit to use the funds for that purpose.&nbsp;

Preston accused Mayor London Breed’s office of refusing to commit to use the funds for that purpose.&nbsp;

“I think the board has taken the lead on fighting for affordable housing in particular and approving all kinds of housing,” Preston said. “The critics will attack nonstop and the mayor will accuse the board of being <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/breed-highlights-sfs-resilience-recovery-in-state-of-the-city-address/">obstructionist</a> over one CEQA appeal on one thing and say nothing about the thousands of units of housing both market-rate and affordable that the board approves without fanfare.”

“I think the board has taken the lead on fighting for affordable housing in particular and approving all kinds of housing,” Preston said. “The critics will attack nonstop and the mayor will accuse the board of being <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/breed-highlights-sfs-resilience-recovery-in-state-of-the-city-address/">obstructionist</a> over one CEQA appeal on one thing and say nothing about the thousands of units of housing both market-rate and affordable that the board approves without fanfare.”

One of Preston’s own constituents, UC Berkeley political science professor David Broockman, says the math belies those claims.&nbsp;

One of Preston’s own constituents, UC Berkeley political science professor David Broockman, says the math belies those claims.&nbsp;

In a <a href="https://nimby.report/preston">report</a> titled “Dean Preston’s Housing Graveyard,” compiled by Broockman, Vitor Bacetti and Alex Taylor, the researchers found that the supervisor has approved fewer than one home in his district per day since he took office. (Broockman made clear the report was a personal project and not part of his work at UC Berkeley.)

In a <a href="https://nimby.report/preston">report</a> titled “Dean Preston’s Housing Graveyard,” compiled by Broockman, Vitor Bacetti and Alex Taylor, the researchers found that the supervisor has approved fewer than one home in his district per day since he took office. (Broockman made clear the report was a personal project and not part of his work at UC Berkeley.)

Plummeting rents during the pandemic may be a signal&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Plummeting rents during the pandemic may be a signal&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Plummeting rents during the pandemic may be a signal&nbsp;</h2>

A key tenet of progressive housing policy is that building more market-rate housing will have little or no impact on rents or prices, especially for the city’s lowest-income residents—and can result in gentrification that ultimately raises prices for everyone.&nbsp;

A key tenet of progressive housing policy is that building more market-rate housing will have little or no impact on rents or prices, especially for the city’s lowest-income residents—and can result in gentrification that ultimately raises prices for everyone.&nbsp;

But a <a href="https://www.lewis.ucla.edu/research/market-rate-development-impacts/">research review</a> out of the UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies on this very question found that adding more market-rate housing does in fact drive down prices. Not only that, new market-rate housing has a healthy “filtering” effect as new residents move in and vacate their more affordable homes, said researcher Shane Phillips, a co-author of the review.

But a <a href="https://www.lewis.ucla.edu/research/market-rate-development-impacts/">research review</a> out of the UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies on this very question found that adding more market-rate housing does in fact drive down prices. Not only that, new market-rate housing has a healthy “filtering” effect as new residents move in and vacate their more affordable homes, said researcher Shane Phillips, a co-author of the review.

He compares the housing market to the used car market—where prices skyrocketed due to&nbsp;temporary supply constraints during the pandemic—to illustrate just how big an effect even small changes in supply can have on prices.&nbsp;

He compares the housing market to the used car market—where prices skyrocketed due to&nbsp;temporary supply constraints during the pandemic—to illustrate just how big an effect even small changes in supply can have on prices.&nbsp;

The pandemic also provided what scientists call a “natural experiment” on the impact of changes in demand on housing rents. San Francisco lost 6.7% of its population during the first 15 months of the pandemic, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/san-francisco-pandemic-population-decline-census/">according to census data</a>. During that time, asking rents in San Francisco plunged by as much as 25%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The pandemic also provided what scientists call a “natural experiment” on the impact of changes in demand on housing rents. San Francisco lost 6.7% of its population during the first 15 months of the pandemic, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/san-francisco-pandemic-population-decline-census/">according to census data</a>. During that time, asking rents in San Francisco plunged by as much as 25%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That’s not to say that building more affordable housing isn’t needed, Phillips said, or that the history of racist zoning in San Francisco and across the country shouldn’t be a factor in development. But it isn’t a zero-sum game.&nbsp;

That’s not to say that building more affordable housing isn’t needed, Phillips said, or that the history of racist zoning in San Francisco and across the country shouldn’t be a factor in development. But it isn’t a zero-sum game.&nbsp;

“The reality is there is a ton of land we could be building housing on, and the idea that blocking market housing from being produced is somehow benefiting affordable housing is just wrong,” Phillips said.&nbsp;

“The reality is there is a ton of land we could be building housing on, and the idea that blocking market housing from being produced is somehow benefiting affordable housing is just wrong,” Phillips said.&nbsp;

To Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, it’s not an either-or. He wants to see the board approve more market-rate housing and the city get better at executing on affordable housing initiatives. He says it’s his job as a supervisor to figure out how to increase density in the city while preserving neighborhood character.&nbsp;

To Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, it’s not an either-or. He wants to see the board approve more market-rate housing and the city get better at executing on affordable housing initiatives. He says it’s his job as a supervisor to figure out how to increase density in the city while preserving neighborhood character.&nbsp;

“We’re not going to meet our RHNA goals relying entirely on public subsidies,” Mandelman said, referring to the Regional Housing Needs Assessment, the housing goal passed down from the state.

“We’re not going to meet our RHNA goals relying entirely on public subsidies,” Mandelman said, referring to the Regional Housing Needs Assessment, the housing goal passed down from the state.

Market-rate developments in San Francisco have to offer somewhere between 15% and 25% affordable units, or provide offsetting funding for affordable housing; thus, many involved in the field say that building more affordable housing actually requires building more market-rate housing, too.

Market-rate developments in San Francisco have to offer somewhere between 15% and 25% affordable units, or provide offsetting funding for affordable housing; thus, many involved in the field say that building more affordable housing actually requires building more market-rate housing, too.

Harris, who has been working as an architect for 40 years, said slapping affordability requirements on small-scale projects ensures they won’t pencil out.&nbsp;

Harris, who has been working as an architect for 40 years, said slapping affordability requirements on small-scale projects ensures they won’t pencil out.&nbsp;

“There’s no economy of scale for (affordability minimums on) a two-unit building,” Harris said. “There’s no way you’re going to make up on one what you’re going to lose on the other.”

“There’s no economy of scale for (affordability minimums on) a two-unit building,” Harris said. “There’s no way you’re going to make up on one what you’re going to lose on the other.”

Showdown looms over state mandates

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Showdown looms over state mandates</h2>

<h2>Showdown looms over state mandates</h2>

The board’s inaction on housing comes as big deadlines loom. Due in May 2023 is an updated “housing element” to the city’s general plan, which is required by the state. Crafted by the city’s planning department, it’s supposed to lay out how the city will manage its zoning and planning policies over the next eight years to assure sufficient housing.

The board’s inaction on housing comes as big deadlines loom. Due in May 2023 is an updated “housing element” to the city’s general plan, which is required by the state. Crafted by the city’s planning department, it’s supposed to lay out how the city will manage its zoning and planning policies over the next eight years to assure sufficient housing.

In a <a href="https://www.sfhousingelement.org/housing-element-2022-update-highlights">new draft</a> published March 25, the planning department recommends rezoning moves like removing density limits and increasing building height allowances in west side neighborhoods along key transit arteries—plus an effective fourplex bill—to get it done. The board now has little over a year to sign off on it.

In a <a href="https://www.sfhousingelement.org/housing-element-2022-update-highlights">new draft</a> published March 25, the planning department recommends rezoning moves like removing density limits and increasing building height allowances in west side neighborhoods along key transit arteries—plus an effective fourplex bill—to get it done. The board now has little over a year to sign off on it.

And the state has raised the stakes by a lot.&nbsp;

And the state has raised the stakes by a lot.&nbsp;

At the time of the last general plan in 2014, the state required the city to enable the construction of 28,869 units by the end of this year. Next year, that number shoots up to 82,000 by 2031.&nbsp;

At the time of the last general plan in 2014, the state required the city to enable the construction of 28,869 units by the end of this year. Next year, that number shoots up to 82,000 by 2031.&nbsp;

The state has also raised the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2021-06/Consequences%20of%20Non-Compliance%20with%20Housing%20Laws.pdf">penalties</a> for not meeting those targets.

The state has also raised the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2021-06/Consequences%20of%20Non-Compliance%20with%20Housing%20Laws.pdf">penalties</a> for not meeting those targets.

If San Francisco fails to allow the legally required housing, the state could cut funding for critical housing programs, freeze the city’s ability to issue permits and dole out financial penalties to the tune of up to $100,000 per month. The board’s recent action in rejecting a 495-unit apartment complex proposed for an empty lot on Stevenson Street is already <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/san-francisco-scrambles-to-prep-for-lawsuits-after-rejecting-800-new-housing-units/">under scrutiny by the state</a>.

If San Francisco fails to allow the legally required housing, the state could cut funding for critical housing programs, freeze the city’s ability to issue permits and dole out financial penalties to the tune of up to $100,000 per month. The board’s recent action in rejecting a 495-unit apartment complex proposed for an empty lot on Stevenson Street is already <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/san-francisco-scrambles-to-prep-for-lawsuits-after-rejecting-800-new-housing-units/">under scrutiny by the state</a>.

But even though the city has just a year to pass a long-term housing plan that will satisfy the state, the board appears to be moving in the other direction, as illustrated by the pairing of bills put forth earlier this year.&nbsp;

But even though the city has just a year to pass a long-term housing plan that will satisfy the state, the board appears to be moving in the other direction, as illustrated by the pairing of bills put forth earlier this year.&nbsp;

The first would create a “special use district” in Chinatown and the Tenderloin to prohibit some types of housing where common spaces and kitchens are shared among residents, proposed by Peskin. He says the two areas lack diverse housing options, and that the city’s west side should take on more of a responsibility for building dense housing.&nbsp;

The first would create a “special use district” in Chinatown and the Tenderloin to prohibit some types of housing where common spaces and kitchens are shared among residents, proposed by Peskin. He says the two areas lack diverse housing options, and that the city’s west side should take on more of a responsibility for building dense housing.&nbsp;

Peskin’s office declined multiple requests for comment for this story.&nbsp;

Peskin’s office declined multiple requests for comment for this story.&nbsp;

But under a <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB330">state law</a> passed in 2019, the bill could be considered a “downzone,” and under state law could be illegal if it’s not balanced by an equal and opposite “upzone.”&nbsp;

But under a <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB330">state law</a> passed in 2019, the bill could be considered a “downzone,” and under state law could be illegal if it’s not balanced by an equal and opposite “upzone.”&nbsp;

So to avoid any lawsuits, the city attorney’s office recommended Peskin pair it with a different piece of legislation also in the works.&nbsp;

So to avoid any lawsuits, the city attorney’s office recommended Peskin pair it with a different piece of legislation also in the works.&nbsp;

That’s Mandelman’s fourplex bill, which is coming back in front of the committee on Monday. It would allow up to four units on any lot currently zoned for single-family homes and up to six units on corner lots and is a way of creating <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/San-Francisco-may-embrace-fourplexes-while-16978947.php#:~:text=SB9%2C%20which%20took%20effect%20Jan,to%20get%20a%20building%20permit.">a specialized local version of</a> the new state law on limiting single-family zoning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That’s Mandelman’s fourplex bill, which is coming back in front of the committee on Monday. It would allow up to four units on any lot currently zoned for single-family homes and up to six units on corner lots and is a way of creating <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/San-Francisco-may-embrace-fourplexes-while-16978947.php#:~:text=SB9%2C%20which%20took%20effect%20Jan,to%20get%20a%20building%20permit.">a specialized local version of</a> the new state law on limiting single-family zoning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most pro-housing groups, and even Breed, are lining up behind Mandelman’s fourplex proposal because it doesn’t have any affordability requirements, unlike the alternative fourplex bills proposed by Supervisors Gordon Mar and Ahsha Safaí. But even supporters are skeptical that much new housing will result.

Most pro-housing groups, and even Breed, are lining up behind Mandelman’s fourplex proposal because it doesn’t have any affordability requirements, unlike the alternative fourplex bills proposed by Supervisors Gordon Mar and Ahsha Safaí. But even supporters are skeptical that much new housing will result.

“I would like us to send out the most robust version of fourplex,” Mandelman said after the committee hearing in early March. “And I am a little concerned based on the conversation here that there is going to be tinkering. The question is, is there going to be watering down?”

“I would like us to send out the most robust version of fourplex,” Mandelman said after the committee hearing in early March. “And I am a little concerned based on the conversation here that there is going to be tinkering. The question is, is there going to be watering down?”

If the board’s recent history is a guide, the answer is likely to be yes.

If the board’s recent history is a guide, the answer is likely to be yes.

Disclosure: Michael Moritz, a venture capitalist who provided the financial backing to launch The Standard, donated $40,000 to YIMBY Action in 2020. Moritz is not involved in The Standard’s editorial decisions.

Disclosure: Michael Moritz, a venture capitalist who provided the financial backing to launch The Standard, donated $40,000 to YIMBY Action in 2020. Moritz is not involved in The Standard’s editorial decisions.

Housing shell game: Supes’ latest actions set to slow new housing as state mandates loom

Leo Cooperband

Mike Ege

Next week’s primary election is the third heat in our quadrathlon election year, and it’s going to be one of the bigger ones with contests for a wide range of state and federal offices, plus San Francisco City Attorney. (Recently appointed incumbent<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/assemblymember-david-chiu-named-san-francisco-city-attorney/"> David Chiu</a> is running unopposed.)

Next week’s primary election is the third heat in our quadrathlon election year, and it’s going to be one of the bigger ones with contests for a wide range of state and federal offices, plus San Francisco City Attorney. (Recently appointed incumbent<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/assemblymember-david-chiu-named-san-francisco-city-attorney/"> David Chiu</a> is running unopposed.)

SF voters also face <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/cscal_jun22/">eight local ballot measures:</a> a bond, two charter amendments, four ordinances and a recall. All pose significant policy choices, some more complicated than others. Apart from the District Attorney recall, which comes to voters by petition, all of these measures landed on the ballot by a majority of the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

SF voters also face <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/cscal_jun22/">eight local ballot measures:</a> a bond, two charter amendments, four ordinances and a recall. All pose significant policy choices, some more complicated than others. Apart from the District Attorney recall, which comes to voters by petition, all of these measures landed on the ballot by a majority of the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

$400 Million for Getting Around: The Bond Measure&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-400-million-for-getting-around-the-bond-measure">$400 Million for Getting Around: The Bond Measure&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="h-400-million-for-getting-around-the-bond-measure">$400 Million for Getting Around: The Bond Measure&nbsp;</h2>

Proposition A would drum up $400 Million to repair and upgrade Muni’s transit system and improve street safety and traffic signals.

Proposition A would drum up $400 Million to repair and upgrade Muni’s transit system and improve street safety and traffic signals.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Because of<a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/covid-wiped-us-out-muni-director-seeks-to-restore-trust-in-the-system/"> financial pressures from Covid and SFMTA’s structural deficit</a>, the bond measure serves as a stopgap while the agency explores more sustainable funding.</li><li>To pass the measure requires a “yes” from two-thirds of voters.</li><li>The bond will be paid for by raising property taxes. Landlords can pass half the increase to tenants.&nbsp;</li><li>So far, Prop. A has garnered support from civic groups, including the<a href="https://www.spur.org/voter-guide/2022-06"> San Francisco Planning and Urban Research Organization (SPUR)</a> and the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club.&nbsp;</li><li>Former State Sen. Quentin Kopp, whose opinion holds sway with more conservative homeowners on the westside, came out against the measure in<a href="https://sfrichmondreview.com/2022/05/02/commentary-quentin-l-kopp-16/"> a recent editorial</a>.&nbsp;</li></ul>

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<ul><li>Because of<a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/covid-wiped-us-out-muni-director-seeks-to-restore-trust-in-the-system/"> financial pressures from Covid and SFMTA’s structural deficit</a>, the bond measure serves as a stopgap while the agency explores more sustainable funding.</li><li>To pass the measure requires a “yes” from two-thirds of voters.</li><li>The bond will be paid for by raising property taxes. Landlords can pass half the increase to tenants.&nbsp;</li><li>So far, Prop. A has garnered support from civic groups, including the<a href="https://www.spur.org/voter-guide/2022-06"> San Francisco Planning and Urban Research Organization (SPUR)</a> and the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club.&nbsp;</li><li>Former State Sen. Quentin Kopp, whose opinion holds sway with more conservative homeowners on the westside, came out against the measure in<a href="https://sfrichmondreview.com/2022/05/02/commentary-quentin-l-kopp-16/"> a recent editorial</a>.&nbsp;</li></ul>

DBI and Recall Reform: The Charter Amendments

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dbi-and-recall-reform-the-charter-amendments">DBI and Recall Reform: The Charter Amendments</h2>

<h2 id="h-dbi-and-recall-reform-the-charter-amendments">DBI and Recall Reform: The Charter Amendments</h2>

Proposition B aims to bolster oversight of the Department of Building Inspection, the focus of<a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/tone-at-the-top-led-to-fraud-bribes-at-department-of-building-inspection-report-finds/"> recent corruption scandals</a>.&nbsp;

Proposition B aims to bolster oversight of the Department of Building Inspection, the focus of<a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/tone-at-the-top-led-to-fraud-bribes-at-department-of-building-inspection-report-finds/"> recent corruption scandals</a>.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>It would change requirements for commission membership to better represent more stakeholders, and move the power to appoint the DBI director from the commission to the mayor, among other changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>The measure is supported by SPUR, as well as political clubs on both sides of the city’s political divide, such as the Alice B. Toklas and Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Clubs. The San Francisco Republican Party opposes, and some groups like the SF Chamber of Commerce have opted not to take a position.</li></ul>

<ul><li>It would change requirements for commission membership to better represent more stakeholders, and move the power to appoint the DBI director from the commission to the mayor, among other changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>The measure is supported by SPUR, as well as political clubs on both sides of the city’s political divide, such as the Alice B. Toklas and Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Clubs. The San Francisco Republican Party opposes, and some groups like the SF Chamber of Commerce have opted not to take a position.</li></ul>

Proposition C adds time restraints on petitions to recall elected officials, shrinking the available window to eight-and-a-half months in the second year of office. Additionally, any appointed replacement for a recalled official would be barred from running for election.

Proposition C adds time restraints on petitions to recall elected officials, shrinking the available window to eight-and-a-half months in the second year of office. Additionally, any appointed replacement for a recalled official would be barred from running for election.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>When first pitched by Supervisor Aaron Peskin<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/explainer-what-sf-voters-need-to-know-about-2022-ballot-measures/"> late last year</a>, before getting whittled down to its current form, this measure included many more clauses aimed mainly at removing the power to appoint replacements for empty elected offices from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors.</li><li>Predictably, the positions of many organizations on this measure parallels with their stand on the recent school board recall, or the coming recall of the District Attorney (see below).Leaders of the recent Board of Education recall have reorganized as “<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/when-sf-voters-decide-whether-to-recall-the-da-they-will-also-weigh-in-on-the-recall-process-itself/">SF Guardians</a>” to fight the measure. It’s also opposed by the Chinese American Democratic Club and the Eastern Neighborhoods Democratic Club, and supported by the SF Democratic Party and the Milk Club.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>When first pitched by Supervisor Aaron Peskin<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/explainer-what-sf-voters-need-to-know-about-2022-ballot-measures/"> late last year</a>, before getting whittled down to its current form, this measure included many more clauses aimed mainly at removing the power to appoint replacements for empty elected offices from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors.</li><li>Predictably, the positions of many organizations on this measure parallels with their stand on the recent school board recall, or the coming recall of the District Attorney (see below).Leaders of the recent Board of Education recall have reorganized as “<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/when-sf-voters-decide-whether-to-recall-the-da-they-will-also-weigh-in-on-the-recall-process-itself/">SF Guardians</a>” to fight the measure. It’s also opposed by the Chinese American Democratic Club and the Eastern Neighborhoods Democratic Club, and supported by the SF Democratic Party and the Milk Club.&nbsp;</li></ul>

A New Crime Agency, Fundraising Rules, Garbage Rates, Sick Leave: The Ordinances

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-crime-agency-fundraising-rules-garbage-rates-sick-leave-the-ordinances">A New Crime Agency, Fundraising Rules, Garbage Rates, Sick Leave: The Ordinances</h2>

<h2 id="h-a-new-crime-agency-fundraising-rules-garbage-rates-sick-leave-the-ordinances">A New Crime Agency, Fundraising Rules, Garbage Rates, Sick Leave: The Ordinances</h2>

Recology trucks in January 2022. | Camille Cohen

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/JuneMeasuresRepub_inlined2-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-52762"/><figcaption>Recology trucks park in a large designated space on Jan. 31, 2022. | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

core/image

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/JuneMeasuresRepub_inlined2-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-52762"/><figcaption>Recology trucks park in a large designated space on Jan. 31, 2022. | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

Proposition D would create<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/stefani-proposes-ballot-measure-to-create-independent-victims-rights-office-right-to-counsel-for-domestic-violence-survivors/"> a new Office of Victim and Witness Rights</a>.

Proposition D would create<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/stefani-proposes-ballot-measure-to-create-independent-victims-rights-office-right-to-counsel-for-domestic-violence-survivors/"> a new Office of Victim and Witness Rights</a>.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>This measure is supported by a number of groups, including the SF Democratic Party.&nbsp;</li><li>The Milk Club is opposed, possibly reflecting politics of the District Attorney recall. The measure’s primary sponsor, Supervisor Catherine Stefani, has been rumored to be a replacement should voters oust Chesa Boudin.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>This measure is supported by a number of groups, including the SF Democratic Party.&nbsp;</li><li>The Milk Club is opposed, possibly reflecting politics of the District Attorney recall. The measure’s primary sponsor, Supervisor Catherine Stefani, has been rumored to be a replacement should voters oust Chesa Boudin.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Proposition E is meant to crack down on corruption by tightening rules for when public officials solicit donations for a preferred charity.

Proposition E is meant to crack down on corruption by tightening rules for when public officials solicit donations for a preferred charity.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The Board of Supervisors <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/ethics-commission-delays-vote-on-new-anti-corruption-rules-as-city-officials-and-donation-recipients-worry-about-impact/">recently passed a ban</a> on so-called “behested payments” by most public officials from city contractors. This measure, written by the Ethics Commission, would expand the ban to the supervisors. </li><li>Future amendments would require supermajority approval by the Board of Supes and the Ethics Commission. </li><li>Support for this item is roughly split among endorsing groups, reflecting perceived negative impacts on nonprofits. SPUR opposes, arguing that “the measure would make changing the law in the future unreasonably difficult.” Meanwhile, Kopp—another influencer on good-government issues and a former Ethics Commissioner—supports the proposal.</li></ul>

<ul><li>The Board of Supervisors <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/ethics-commission-delays-vote-on-new-anti-corruption-rules-as-city-officials-and-donation-recipients-worry-about-impact/">recently passed a ban</a> on so-called “behested payments” by most public officials from city contractors. This measure, written by the Ethics Commission, would expand the ban to the supervisors. </li><li>Future amendments would require supermajority approval by the Board of Supes and the Ethics Commission. </li><li>Support for this item is roughly split among endorsing groups, reflecting perceived negative impacts on nonprofits. SPUR opposes, arguing that “the measure would make changing the law in the future unreasonably difficult.” Meanwhile, Kopp—another influencer on good-government issues and a former Ethics Commissioner—supports the proposal.</li></ul>

Proposition F would change how the city regulates trash-hauling costs. It would reorganize the Refuse Rate Board and move responsibility for monitoring and proposing rates from the Director of Public Works to the Controller. Future changes to this law could be enacted by the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

Proposition F would change how the city regulates trash-hauling costs. It would reorganize the Refuse Rate Board and move responsibility for monitoring and proposing rates from the Director of Public Works to the Controller. Future changes to this law could be enacted by the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The measure was placed on the ballot by the Board of Supervisors in reaction to longtime contractor Recology’s<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/sf-investigates-recology-for-more-overbilling-after-95-million-payout-tied-to-corruption-scandal/"> overbilling and other scandals</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>There was a<a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/sf-supervisor-recology-trash-monopoly-investigation/"> more aggressive option</a> sponsored by some supervisors to open up the process to competitive bidding, but that was tabled in exchange for Recology dropping a competing measure.&nbsp;</li><li>So far, Prop. F has garnered no influential opposition.</li></ul>

<ul><li>The measure was placed on the ballot by the Board of Supervisors in reaction to longtime contractor Recology’s<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/sf-investigates-recology-for-more-overbilling-after-95-million-payout-tied-to-corruption-scandal/"> overbilling and other scandals</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>There was a<a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/sf-supervisor-recology-trash-monopoly-investigation/"> more aggressive option</a> sponsored by some supervisors to open up the process to competitive bidding, but that was tabled in exchange for Recology dropping a competing measure.&nbsp;</li><li>So far, Prop. F has garnered no influential opposition.</li></ul>

Proposition G would essentially make permanent an emergency ordinance adopted during the height of Covid which requires larger private employers to provide two weeks of paid public health emergency leave. Companies with less than 100 workers are exempt.&nbsp;

Proposition G would essentially make permanent an emergency ordinance adopted during the height of Covid which requires larger private employers to provide two weeks of paid public health emergency leave. Companies with less than 100 workers are exempt.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Part of the rationale for this measure is that climate change will make future pandemics, as well as poor air quality caused by wildfires, more frequent.</li><li>SPUR opposes the measure, arguing it “could place a significant financial burden on small businesses with a large employee base, such as restaurants.” The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce also opposes the measure. Most partisan endorsing groups such as the SF Democratic Party support the measure.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Part of the rationale for this measure is that climate change will make future pandemics, as well as poor air quality caused by wildfires, more frequent.</li><li>SPUR opposes the measure, arguing it “could place a significant financial burden on small businesses with a large employee base, such as restaurants.” The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce also opposes the measure. Most partisan endorsing groups such as the SF Democratic Party support the measure.&nbsp;</li></ul>

DA Recall: The Main Event

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-da-recall-the-main-event">DA Recall: The Main Event</h2>

<h2 id="h-da-recall-the-main-event">DA Recall: The Main Event</h2>

San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin attends at a We Wear Orange weekend rally against gun violence hosted by United Playaz hosted  in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday, June 1, 2022. Benjamin Fanjoy for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/JuneMeasuresRepub_INLINED1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-52759"/><figcaption>San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin attends at a We Wear Orange weekend rally against gun violence hosted by United Playaz hosted in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday, June 1, 2022. Benjamin Fanjoy for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/JuneMeasuresRepub_INLINED1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-52759"/><figcaption>San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin attends at a We Wear Orange weekend rally against gun violence hosted by United Playaz hosted in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday, June 1, 2022. Benjamin Fanjoy for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Proposition H would oust District Attorney Chesa Boudin, allowing Mayor London Breed to appoint his replacement.&nbsp;

Proposition H would oust District Attorney Chesa Boudin, allowing Mayor London Breed to appoint his replacement.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Boudin, a former public defender, was elected in 2019 on a wave of public concern over police and prosecutorial abuse and bias. Since then, he has faced significant political opposition from law enforcement.&nbsp;</li><li>Subsequent concern over crime trends in the city, fueled by<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/interactive-map-san-franciscos-uneven-burglary-spikes-by-neighborhood/"> an uneven increase in some property crimes</a> along with<a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/explainer-da-boudin-is-sending-more-defendants-to-diversion/"> Boudin’s “decarceral” policies</a>,&nbsp; led to the successful recall petition.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Boudin, a former public defender, was elected in 2019 on a wave of public concern over police and prosecutorial abuse and bias. Since then, he has faced significant political opposition from law enforcement.&nbsp;</li><li>Subsequent concern over crime trends in the city, fueled by<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/interactive-map-san-franciscos-uneven-burglary-spikes-by-neighborhood/"> an uneven increase in some property crimes</a> along with<a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/explainer-da-boudin-is-sending-more-defendants-to-diversion/"> Boudin’s “decarceral” policies</a>,&nbsp; led to the successful recall petition.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Each side argues that the other is promoted by special interests.<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/mapping-the-money-in-the-da-chesa-boudin-recall/"> Campaign finance issues</a> around the recall have been subjected to significant scrutiny and debate.

Each side argues that the other is promoted by special interests.<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/mapping-the-money-in-the-da-chesa-boudin-recall/"> Campaign finance issues</a> around the recall have been subjected to significant scrutiny and debate.

Finish your ballot this weekend: What to know about your June propositions

Camille Cohen

Nola and Maestro Curtis never pushed their five kids toward music, despite being skilled professional musical performers and instructors themselves.&nbsp;

Nola and Maestro Curtis never pushed their five kids toward music, despite being skilled professional musical performers and instructors themselves.&nbsp;

So you can imagine their surprise when, from another room, they heard their then-3-year-old on the bass line while another of their kids, Isis, sang and drummed a rendition of Jefferson Airplane&#8217;s White Rabbit, sounding “just like the record.”&nbsp;

So you can imagine their surprise when, from another room, they heard their then-3-year-old on the bass line while another of their kids, Isis, sang and drummed a rendition of Jefferson Airplane's White Rabbit, sounding “just like the record.”&nbsp;

So you can imagine their surprise when, from another room, they heard their then-3-year-old on the bass line while another of their kids, Isis, sang and drummed a rendition of Jefferson Airplane&#8217;s White Rabbit, sounding “just like the record.”&nbsp;

Once they saw their kids’ natural interest in music piqued, the couple transitioned away from playing with other performers and turned their passion for notes into a family affair.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Once they saw their kids’ natural interest in music piqued, the couple transitioned away from playing with other performers and turned their passion for notes into a family affair.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Curtis family, known professionally as The Curtis Family C-Notes, plays melodies of “&#8217;60s and &#8217;70s-inspired San Francisco funk” out of their Bayview District home and in venues across the city, according to their son Nile.&nbsp;

The Curtis family, known professionally as The Curtis Family C-Notes, plays melodies of “'60s and '70s-inspired San Francisco funk” out of their Bayview District home and in venues across the city, according to their son Nile.&nbsp;

The Curtis family, known professionally as The Curtis Family C-Notes, plays melodies of “&#8217;60s and &#8217;70s-inspired San Francisco funk” out of their Bayview District home and in venues across the city, according to their son Nile.&nbsp;

The eldest, 17-year-old Zahara, plays guitar, violin and percussion. Nile, 16, plays bass. At 14, Isis rocks drums and the piano alongside her sister Kiki, 13, who plays the electric guitar and keyboard. Phoenix, the youngest Curtis at 11, performs on the piano, guitar, violin and drums. All five siblings sing.

The eldest, 17-year-old Zahara, plays guitar, violin and percussion. Nile, 16, plays bass. At 14, Isis rocks drums and the piano alongside her sister Kiki, 13, who plays the electric guitar and keyboard. Phoenix, the youngest Curtis at 11, performs on the piano, guitar, violin and drums. All five siblings sing.

Phoenix Curtis, 11, plays the piano, violin, guitar, bass and sings. | Sophie Bearman

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/CurtisFam-13-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23798"/><figcaption>Phoenix Curtis, 11, is the youngest Curtis family child. She plays the piano, violin, guitar, bass and sings. | Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/CurtisFam-13-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23798"/><figcaption>Phoenix Curtis, 11, is the youngest Curtis family child. She plays the piano, violin, guitar, bass and sings. | Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

“Music is not what we do, music is who we are. It’s how we operate as a family,” said Maestro Curtis, a.k.a. “Papa C,” who, alongside his wife, is a faculty member at the Mission District Community Music Center.

“Music is not what we do, music is who we are. It’s how we operate as a family,” said Maestro Curtis, a.k.a. “Papa C,” who, alongside his wife, is a faculty member at the Mission District Community Music Center.

When the C-Notes <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wD7ynua0EJ4">played the halftime show</a> at a March 2020 Warriors game, they thought it might be their big break. But shortly thereafter the pandemic hit, and it was their weekly living room livestreams that brought them their biggest opportunity yet—a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaT56n-q7Gc">stint</a> on the popular show America’s Got Talent.&nbsp;

When the C-Notes <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wD7ynua0EJ4">played the halftime show</a> at a March 2020 Warriors game, they thought it might be their big break. But shortly thereafter the pandemic hit, and it was their weekly living room livestreams that brought them their biggest opportunity yet—a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaT56n-q7Gc">stint</a> on the popular show America’s Got Talent.&nbsp;

That achievement is noteworthy no matter who you are, but it was especially poignant for the Curtis family, who experienced homelessness and lived out of a van in 2011.&nbsp;

That achievement is noteworthy no matter who you are, but it was especially poignant for the Curtis family, who experienced homelessness and lived out of a van in 2011.&nbsp;

“Going through that experience with our children has only made our bond even stronger,” said Nola Curtis, a.k.a. “Mama C.” As for the Curtis kids, they say the knowledge that they were once homeless helps keep them humble regardless of their newfound recognition. The family recently did a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4f3Nf23hrA">winter ad campaign</a> with JCPenney for the holidays.&nbsp;

“Going through that experience with our children has only made our bond even stronger,” said Nola Curtis, a.k.a. “Mama C.” As for the Curtis kids, they say the knowledge that they were once homeless helps keep them humble regardless of their newfound recognition. The family recently did a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4f3Nf23hrA">winter ad campaign</a> with JCPenney for the holidays.&nbsp;

“We kept our focus. Some people call it faith. I simply call it focus,” said Papa C.

“We kept our focus. Some people call it faith. I simply call it focus,” said Papa C.

Just ask the five children to recite the “Curtis Family Principles” and you’ll see what he means. The kids, in unison, will tell you: Never give up, pay attention, be prepared, show up and produce.

Just ask the five children to recite the “Curtis Family Principles” and you’ll see what he means. The kids, in unison, will tell you: Never give up, pay attention, be prepared, show up and produce.

"Monopoly" is one of the Curtis family's favorite board games. They don't watch TV but play many games together/ | Sophie Bearman

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/CurtisFam-03-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23789"/><figcaption>Monopoly is one of the Curtis family&#8217;s favorite board games. They don&#8217;t watch television but play games together. | Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/CurtisFam-03-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23789"/><figcaption>Monopoly is one of the Curtis family's favorite board games. They don't watch television but play games together. | Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/CurtisFam-03-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-23789"/><figcaption>Monopoly is one of the Curtis family&#8217;s favorite board games. They don&#8217;t watch television but play games together. | Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

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