Matthew Kupfer

When you’re trying to build housing in San Francisco, the city is a jungle. Its overgrown regulation, astronomical costs and myriad reasons to say ‘no’ have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/">killed many a development project</a>.

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When you’re trying to build housing in San Francisco, the city is a jungle. Its overgrown regulation, astronomical costs and myriad reasons to say ‘no’ have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/">killed many a development project</a>.

Despite all of that, some projects somehow still get built.&nbsp;

Despite all of that, some projects somehow still get built.&nbsp;

The average San Francisco building cost clocks in at an astronomical $440 per square foot, the highest in the world, according to <a href="https://cbreemail.com/rv/ff019c9050e5e959ddee96391147a04f8280126c">data research group CBRE</a>.&nbsp;

The average San Francisco building cost clocks in at an astronomical $440 per square foot, the highest in the world, according to <a href="https://cbreemail.com/rv/ff019c9050e5e959ddee96391147a04f8280126c">data research group CBRE</a>.&nbsp;

Labor costs are also sky-high. A multitude of fees—some citywide, others neighborhood-specific — erode the profitability of housing projects, dollar by dollar.&nbsp;

Labor costs are also sky-high. A multitude of fees—some citywide, others neighborhood-specific — erode the profitability of housing projects, dollar by dollar.&nbsp;

The city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affordable housing rules</a> require developers to either pay a massive fee or make 20% to 33% of units below market-rate in any development larger than 10 units—though political or community groups often push for more. And the Board of Supervisors can still deny a project, even if it meets all the other requirements.&nbsp;

The city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affordable housing rules</a> require developers to either pay a massive fee or make 20% to 33% of units below market-rate in any development larger than 10 units—though political or community groups often push for more. And the Board of Supervisors can still deny a project, even if it meets all the other requirements.&nbsp;

The Standard analyzed SF Planning’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">housing</a> pipeline data from Q1 2022, and had a look at the largest developments that made it through the crazy system.

The Standard analyzed SF Planning’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">housing</a> pipeline data from Q1 2022, and had a look at the largest developments that made it through the crazy system.

The top five are located in SoMA or nearby. But other, smaller projects stretch across much of the city.

The top five are located in SoMA or nearby. But other, smaller projects stretch across much of the city.

The data paints a stark picture of the city’s struggle to increase its housing stock and create affordable units. When all the projects listed in the Q1 data are complete, they will add just 4,150 new units to the city—2,098 of them will be affordable.

The data paints a stark picture of the city’s struggle to increase its housing stock and create affordable units. When all the projects listed in the Q1 data are complete, they will add just 4,150 new units to the city—2,098 of them will be affordable.

And the state government is cracking down on the city’s attitude towards building homes, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/state-cracks-down-on-sf-housing-gridlock-launching-first-ever-review-aimed-at-speeding-up-construction/">launching an investigation into why it takes so long and demanding the city submit a plan to build 82,000 homes by 2030</a>.&nbsp;

And the state government is cracking down on the city’s attitude towards building homes, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/state-cracks-down-on-sf-housing-gridlock-launching-first-ever-review-aimed-at-speeding-up-construction/">launching an investigation into why it takes so long and demanding the city submit a plan to build 82,000 homes by 2030</a>.&nbsp;

Dan Sider, chief of staff at SF Planning, admits that the state has set high goals for San Francisco. But he says the numbers are far from bleak.

Dan Sider, chief of staff at SF Planning, admits that the state has set high goals for San Francisco. But he says the numbers are far from bleak.

“Any unit of housing helps and the good news is that we have a lot of units coming online,” he said. “Some are market rate, some are affordable. We need all of them.”

“Any unit of housing helps and the good news is that we have a lot of units coming online,” he said. “Some are market rate, some are affordable. We need all of them.”

Here are the largest projects coming down the pipeline.

Here are the largest projects coming down the pipeline.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hayes-point">Hayes Point</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hayes-point">Hayes Point</h2>

A rendering of the exterior of a new housing development at 30 Van Ness (center) in San Francisco. Courtesy Solomon Cordwell Buenz

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BeingBuilt09232022_INLINED5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-78427"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A rendering of the exterior of a new development at 30 Van Ness (center) in San Francisco. Courtesy Solomon Cordwell Buenz</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BeingBuilt09232022_INLINED5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-78427"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A rendering of the exterior of a new development at 30 Van Ness (center) in San Francisco. Courtesy Solomon Cordwell Buenz</figcaption></figure>

Hailed by Mayor London Breed as the kind of project San Francisco needs to “unclog the housing pipeline,” the development at 30 Van Ness Avenue—christened Hayes Point—is an unusual one.

Hailed by Mayor London Breed as the kind of project San Francisco needs to “unclog the housing pipeline,” the development at 30 Van Ness Avenue—christened Hayes Point—is an unusual one.

At a time when the city is struggling to attract renters to its commercial office buildings, this new development just north of Market Street plans to place 333 condos on top of a five-story, 29,000 square foot office building.

At a time when the city is struggling to attract renters to its commercial office buildings, this new development just north of Market Street plans to place 333 condos on top of a five-story, 29,000 square foot office building.

It was possible to construct such a building because Australian developer Lendlease is able to handle the financing, construction, and development all on its own, a company manager <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/market-street-tower-17426164.php">told the San Francisco Chronicle</a> earlier this month.

It was possible to construct such a building because Australian developer Lendlease is able to handle the financing, construction, and development all on its own, a company manager <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/market-street-tower-17426164.php">told the San Francisco Chronicle</a> earlier this month.

The firm officially broke ground on the project, which Lendlease values at over $1 billion, in September. It is scheduled for completion in 2025.

The firm officially broke ground on the project, which Lendlease values at over $1 billion, in September. It is scheduled for completion in 2025.

Notably, 25% of the units in Hayes Point—or 83 condos—will be priced below market rate, more than was required at the time. Lendlease was able to purchase and develop the property in part because it agreed to so many affordable units.&nbsp;

Notably, 25% of the units in Hayes Point—or 83 condos—will be priced below market rate, more than was required at the time. Lendlease was able to purchase and develop the property in part because it agreed to so many affordable units.&nbsp;

Lendlease has been contacted for comment.

Lendlease has been contacted for comment.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-academe-at-198-nbsp">Academe at 198&nbsp;</h2>

UC Hastings Student Housing, 198 McAllister St., Tenderloin

UC Hastings Student Housing, 198 McAllister St., Tenderloin

An exterior of the UC Hastings Student Housing at 198 McAllister St in San Francisco, Calif., on September 26, 2022. The building’s approval involved an elaborate and complex permitting process. | Justin Katigbak for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BeingBuilt09232022_FEATURED.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-78433"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An exterior of the UC Hastings Student Housing at 198 McAllister St in San Francisco, Calif., on September 26, 2022. The building’s approval involved an elaborate and complex permitting process. | Justin Katigbak for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Technically, the largest housing development project in San Francisco’s pipeline as of Q1 2022 isn’t “traditional” apartments available to the broader public; it’s part of UC Hastings College of Law’s “Academic Village.”

Technically, the largest housing development project in San Francisco’s pipeline as of Q1 2022 isn’t “traditional” apartments available to the broader public; it’s part of UC Hastings College of Law’s “Academic Village.”

Developed by Greystar, the residential complex in San Francisco’s rough-and-tumble Tenderloin neighborhood will add 656 new units of housing to the city — but only for graduate students from Hastings, UCSF, and other Bay Area universities. Most of the apartments will be small efficiency units and studios. According to the university, the new 14-story building, called Academe at 198, will also feature classrooms, offices, mock courtrooms, and a 400-person auditorium on its first three floors and ground-floor retail space.

Developed by Greystar, the residential complex in San Francisco’s rough-and-tumble Tenderloin neighborhood will add 656 new units of housing to the city — but only for graduate students from Hastings, UCSF, and other Bay Area universities. Most of the apartments will be small efficiency units and studios. According to the university, the new 14-story building, called Academe at 198, will also feature classrooms, offices, mock courtrooms, and a 400-person auditorium on its first three floors and ground-floor retail space.

Academe at 198 should be completed in July 2023. Another phase of the project, which envisions renovating the historic building at 100 McAllister Street next door, will be finished in 2025 or later.

Academe at 198 should be completed in July 2023. Another phase of the project, which envisions renovating the historic building at 100 McAllister Street next door, will be finished in 2025 or later.

Why is the largest ongoing housing development in San Francisco specifically for students? Part of the reason may be that Academe at 198 had an inherent advantage over construction projects: Hastings is affiliated with the University of California system, it is not under the purview of SF Planning.

Why is the largest ongoing housing development in San Francisco specifically for students? Part of the reason may be that Academe at 198 had an inherent advantage over construction projects: Hastings is affiliated with the University of California system, it is not under the purview of SF Planning.

David Seward, the university’s chief financial officer, disagrees that this is an advantage. He says UC Hastings works “very collaboratively” with SF Planning and takes its input, but “there’s no approval authority there.”

David Seward, the university’s chief financial officer, disagrees that this is an advantage. He says UC Hastings works “very collaboratively” with SF Planning and takes its input, but “there’s no approval authority there.”

He says Academe at 198 aims to solve affordable housing issues for graduate students, a group underserved by much student housing, and to become a “community activator” for the underserved Tenderloin, putting students on the sidewalks and money into local businesses.

He says Academe at 198 aims to solve affordable housing issues for graduate students, a group underserved by much student housing, and to become a “community activator” for the underserved Tenderloin, putting students on the sidewalks and money into local businesses.

“Urban campuses—it’s really all about the energy and the vibe and the collaborations that will result” when students from different disciplines live together, Seward said.

“Urban campuses—it’s really all about the energy and the vibe and the collaborations that will result” when students from different disciplines live together, Seward said.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1064-mission-street">1064 Mission Street</h2>

Construction is underway for a new residential development project on 1064 Mission Street in  in San Francisco, Calif., on September 23, 2022. The building approvals involved an elaborate and complex permitting process. | Justin Katigbak for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BeingBuilt09232022_INLINED03.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-78442"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Construction is underway for a new residential development project on 1064 Mission Street in in San Francisco, Calif., on September 23, 2022. The building approvals involved an elaborate and complex permitting process. | Justin Katigbak for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Unlike many of the other developments currently under construction, 1064 Mission St. is not the work of a major for-profit developer. Rather, it is a joint project of Mercy Housing, a national affordable housing nonprofit, and Episcopal Community Services of San Francisco.

Unlike many of the other developments currently under construction, 1064 Mission St. is not the work of a major for-profit developer. Rather, it is a joint project of Mercy Housing, a national affordable housing nonprofit, and Episcopal Community Services of San Francisco.

Construction began in March 2020 and is nearing completion. The complex is set to begin receiving residents on October 3, 2022.

Construction began in March 2020 and is nearing completion. The complex is set to begin receiving residents on October 3, 2022.

The two buildings that make up the complex will offer 256 affordable studio apartments for formerly homeless adults and seniors, adding to the city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/breed-hails-opening-of-new-permanent-supportive-housing-amid-worker-protests/">growing portfolio of permanent supportive housing</a>. They will also have case managers and support service managers on staff. Additionally, an urgent care clinic and a satellite clinic of St. Anthony’s Medical Center, a federally qualified health center, will be located in the complex.&nbsp;

The two buildings that make up the complex will offer 256 affordable studio apartments for formerly homeless adults and seniors, adding to the city’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/breed-hails-opening-of-new-permanent-supportive-housing-amid-worker-protests/">growing portfolio of permanent supportive housing</a>. They will also have case managers and support service managers on staff. Additionally, an urgent care clinic and a satellite clinic of St. Anthony’s Medical Center, a federally qualified health center, will be located in the complex.&nbsp;

Prospective residents will be referred to the facility through the city Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/what-happens-if-you-become-homeless-in-sf-a-look-at-the-front-door-of-the-citys-homeless-response/">Adult Coordinated Entry system</a>.

Prospective residents will be referred to the facility through the city Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/what-happens-if-you-become-homeless-in-sf-a-look-at-the-front-door-of-the-citys-homeless-response/">Adult Coordinated Entry system</a>.

The complex is being constructed on land provided by the federal government exclusively to house the homeless.&nbsp;

The complex is being constructed on land provided by the federal government exclusively to house the homeless.&nbsp;

It is being built using a modular construction technique, which means that the individual apartments are assembled off-site and later “clicked into place,” according to Beth Stokes, executive director of Episcopal Community Services.

It is being built using a modular construction technique, which means that the individual apartments are assembled off-site and later “clicked into place,” according to Beth Stokes, executive director of Episcopal Community Services.

The new complex “accomplishes a commitment to continuing to create new units of supportive housing to house a growing population of folks that are chronically homeless with pretty significant disabling conditions,” she said.

The new complex “accomplishes a commitment to continuing to create new units of supportive housing to house a growing population of folks that are chronically homeless with pretty significant disabling conditions,” she said.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ventana-residences">Ventana Residences</h2>

99 Ocean Avenue, Mission Terrace/Excelsior

99 Ocean Avenue, Mission Terrace/Excelsior

A rendering of a new residential building at 99 Ocean Avenue. Courtesy RG-Architecture

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BeingBuilt09232022_INLINED-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-78439"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A rendering of a new residential building at 99 Ocean Avenue. Courtesy RG-Architecture</figcaption></figure>

This new high-density residential complex in the Mission Terrace area will add 193 units to San Francisco’s housing stock, 48 of which will be affordable.&nbsp;

This new high-density residential complex in the Mission Terrace area will add 193 units to San Francisco’s housing stock, 48 of which will be affordable.&nbsp;

It will be located half a mile from the Balboa Park BART station, giving residents access to the rapid transit system, multiple Muni lines, and numerous bus routes.

It will be located half a mile from the Balboa Park BART station, giving residents access to the rapid transit system, multiple Muni lines, and numerous bus routes.

The complex will also include the Wu Yee Children’s Services, a preschool that will serve up to 75 children, on site. Developer Presidio Bay Ventures says this will be a first for a housing development project in San Francisco, where most developers simply pay into the San Francisco Childcare Impact Fee Fund.

The complex will also include the Wu Yee Children’s Services, a preschool that will serve up to 75 children, on site. Developer Presidio Bay Ventures says this will be a first for a housing development project in San Francisco, where most developers simply pay into the San Francisco Childcare Impact Fee Fund.

One of the goals of the project is to accommodate young families, who might otherwise struggle to find housing that can accommodate their need for more space, Kabir Seth, chief operations officer of Presidio Bay Ventures said. These families might otherwise have to leave the city.

One of the goals of the project is to accommodate young families, who might otherwise struggle to find housing that can accommodate their need for more space, Kabir Seth, chief operations officer of Presidio Bay Ventures said. These families might otherwise have to leave the city.

Getting the project approved was difficult, Seth said, explaining that his company acquired the site at the end of 2016, but couldn’t get it “shovel ready” until 2020.

Getting the project approved was difficult, Seth said, explaining that his company acquired the site at the end of 2016, but couldn’t get it “shovel ready” until 2020.

In 2019, a coalition of community groups publicly opposed the project, demanding that 100% of the apartments be affordable. The Planning Commission eventually advanced the project, the San Francisco Examiner <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/archives/despite-community-pushback-city-moves-ahead-with-large-residential-development-in-excelsior/article_0056ff75-794f-5656-87ad-832dda102ad3.html">reported</a>.

In 2019, a coalition of community groups publicly opposed the project, demanding that 100% of the apartments be affordable. The Planning Commission eventually advanced the project, the San Francisco Examiner <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/archives/despite-community-pushback-city-moves-ahead-with-large-residential-development-in-excelsior/article_0056ff75-794f-5656-87ad-832dda102ad3.html">reported</a>.

Seth told The Standard that he believes community input results in better outcomes. But materials, labor, taxes and affordability requirements already make multi-family development very difficult. When even going above the affordability minimums—as Presidio did by making 25% of the units affordable—is not enough, that can derail important construction projects.&nbsp;

Seth told The Standard that he believes community input results in better outcomes. But materials, labor, taxes and affordability requirements already make multi-family development very difficult. When even going above the affordability minimums—as Presidio did by making 25% of the units affordable—is not enough, that can derail important construction projects.&nbsp;

“Our project still got appealed,” he said, “and we still had to present it and overcome the appeal at the Board of Appeals, following what was already a very lengthy entitlement and environmental review process.”

“Our project still got appealed,” he said, “and we still had to present it and overcome the appeal at the Board of Appeals, following what was already a very lengthy entitlement and environmental review process.”

‘Brady Block’ residential building

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brady-block-residential-building">‘Brady Block’ residential building</h2>

1621 Market St, SoMA

A rendering the view of Brady Park from Brady Street at the new residential building at 1629 Market Street in San Francisco. Courtesy Kennelly Architecture and Planning

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BeingBuilt09232022_INLINED.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-78436"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A rendering the view of Brady Park from Brady Street at the new residential building at 1621 Market Street in San Francisco. Courtesy Kennerly Architecture and Planning</figcaption></figure>

The building at 1621 Market St. was long the home of the UA Local 38 plumbers and pipefitter’s union. But in 2017, the union teamed up with Strada Investment Group to construct a six-building housing project, according to the <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2017/10/10/market-street-sf-housing-development-strada.html">San Francisco Business Times</a>.

The building at 1621 Market St. was long the home of the UA Local 38 plumbers and pipefitter’s union. But in 2017, the union teamed up with Strada Investment Group to construct a six-building housing project, according to the <a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2017/10/10/market-street-sf-housing-development-strada.html">San Francisco Business Times</a>.

That project, which is located between Market and Brady streets and sometimes called the “Brady Block,” will create a total of 595 residential units. Of those, 103 will be affordable and 96 will be supportive housing for formerly homeless individuals, according to SF Planning.

That project, which is located between Market and Brady streets and sometimes called the “Brady Block,” will create a total of 595 residential units. Of those, 103 will be affordable and 96 will be supportive housing for formerly homeless individuals, according to SF Planning.

The project currently coming down the pipeline is a nine-story residential building that will include 185 units. According to the Q1 2022 data, none of them will be affordable, suggesting that the below-market apartments may be in other Brady Block structures. The development is currently under construction.

The project currently coming down the pipeline is a nine-story residential building that will include 185 units. According to the Q1 2022 data, none of them will be affordable, suggesting that the below-market apartments may be in other Brady Block structures. The development is currently under construction.

The union hall originally at 1621 Market St. has been demolished and included in another building in the new development.&nbsp;

The union hall originally at 1621 Market St. has been demolished and included in another building in the new development.&nbsp;

Strada has been contacted for comment.&nbsp;

Strada has been contacted for comment.&nbsp;

Here’s a map of some of the larger developments coming down the pipeline:

Here’s a map of some of the larger developments coming down the pipeline:

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San Francisco real estate: 5 huge housing projects that beat insane city rules to get built

Mike Ege

This coming June 7 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 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).&nbsp;

This coming June 7 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 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).&nbsp;

San Francisco voters also face <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/cscal_jun22/">eight local ballot measures:</a> a bond measure, 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 was placed on the ballot by petition, all of these measures were placed on the ballot by a majority of the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

San Francisco voters also face <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/cscal_jun22/">eight local ballot measures:</a> a bond measure, 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 was placed on the ballot by petition, all of these measures were placed on the ballot by a majority of the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

The Bond Measure: $400 Million for Getting Around

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

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

Proposition A is a general obligation bond of up to $400 Million to pay for previously planned capital improvements such as repairs and upgrades to Muni’s transit system, improving street safety features and traffic signals, and traffic calming measures.

Proposition A is a general obligation bond of up to $400 Million to pay for previously planned capital improvements such as repairs and upgrades to Muni’s transit system, improving street safety features and traffic signals, and traffic calming measures.

<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 stop-gap measure to ensure continued operations and improvements while the agency explores more sustainable funding.</li><li>The measure requires two-thirds of voters to vote “yes” for it to pass.</li><li>The bond will be paid for by raising property taxes. Landlords can pass on half of the increase to tenants.&nbsp;</li><li>So far, Prop A has garnered support from civic groups ranging from the<a href="https://www.spur.org/voter-guide/2022-06"> San Francisco Planning and Urban Research Organization (SPUR)</a>, to the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club.&nbsp;</li><li>Former State Senator Quentin Kopp, whose opinion is influential with more conservative homeowner-oriented groups on the westside, indicated his opposition 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 stop-gap measure to ensure continued operations and improvements while the agency explores more sustainable funding.</li><li>The measure requires two-thirds of voters to vote “yes” for it to pass.</li><li>The bond will be paid for by raising property taxes. Landlords can pass on half of the increase to tenants.&nbsp;</li><li>So far, Prop A has garnered support from civic groups ranging from the<a href="https://www.spur.org/voter-guide/2022-06"> San Francisco Planning and Urban Research Organization (SPUR)</a>, to the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club.&nbsp;</li><li>Former State Senator Quentin Kopp, whose opinion is influential with more conservative homeowner-oriented groups on the westside, indicated his opposition in <a href="https://sfrichmondreview.com/2022/05/02/commentary-quentin-l-kopp-16/">a recent editorial</a>.&nbsp;</li></ul>

The Charter Amendments: DBI and Recall Reform

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

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

Proposition B would reorganize the oversight commission for 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 scandals</a>.&nbsp;

Proposition B would reorganize the oversight commission for 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 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.   </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.   </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 places additional time restraints on filing petitions for recall of elected officials, reducing the available window to eight and a half months in the second year of office.&nbsp; Additionally, any appointed replacement for a recalled official would be barred from standing for election.

Proposition C places additional time restraints on filing petitions for recall of elected officials, reducing the available window to eight and a half months in the second year of office.&nbsp; Additionally, any appointed replacement for a recalled official would be barred from standing for election.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>When first proposed 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>, this measure included many more clauses aimed mainly at removing the power to appoint replacements for vacated elective offices from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors. The measure was amended over time to its current form.&nbsp;&nbsp;</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).The organizers 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 oppose 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 proposed 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>, this measure included many more clauses aimed mainly at removing the power to appoint replacements for vacated elective offices from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors. The measure was amended over time to its current form.&nbsp;&nbsp;</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).The organizers 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 oppose 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>

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

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

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

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> that would provide support and ensure the right to counsel for crime victims and witnesses.

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> that would provide support and ensure the right to counsel for crime victims and witnesses.

<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 background politics of the District Attorney recall. The measure’s primary sponsor, Supervisor Catherine Stefani, has been rumored to be a possible replacement should Chesa Boudin be recalled.&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 background politics of the District Attorney recall. The measure’s primary sponsor, Supervisor Catherine Stefani, has been rumored to be a possible replacement should Chesa Boudin be recalled.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Proposition E is meant to be an anti-corruption measure that would further restrict a type of fundraising where officials ask persons to donate to a preferred charity.

Proposition E is meant to be an anti-corruption measure that would further restrict a type of fundraising where officials ask persons to donate to a preferred charity.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>&nbsp;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 soliciting so-called “behested payments” by most public officials from city contractors, but it doesn’t cover the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;</li><li>This measure was drafted to include the Board of Supervisors in the ban.&nbsp;</li><li>Future amendments would require both supermajority approval by the Board, along with approval by the Ethics Commission.&nbsp;</li><li>Support for this item is roughly split among endorsing groups, reflecting perceived negative impacts on nonprofits. SPUR opposes the measure, 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 measure.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>&nbsp;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 soliciting so-called “behested payments” by most public officials from city contractors, but it doesn’t cover the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;</li><li>This measure was drafted to include the Board of Supervisors in the ban.&nbsp;</li><li>Future amendments would require both supermajority approval by the Board, along with approval by the Ethics Commission.&nbsp;</li><li>Support for this item is roughly split among endorsing groups, reflecting perceived negative impacts on nonprofits. SPUR opposes the measure, 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 measure.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Proposition F would change the way garbage collection rates are regulated. 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 the way garbage collection rates are regulated. 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>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 was tabled in exchange for Recology dropping a competing measure.&nbsp;</li><li>So far there is no influential opposition to this measure.</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>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 was tabled in exchange for Recology dropping a competing measure.&nbsp;</li><li>So far there is no influential opposition to this measure.</li></ul>

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

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

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Part of the rationale for this measure is that future pandemics, as well as air quality incidents such as wildfires, will become more regular events because of climate change.&nbsp;</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 future pandemics, as well as air quality incidents such as wildfires, will become more regular events because of climate change.&nbsp;</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>

The Main Event: District Attorney Recall&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-main-event-district-attorney-recall">The Main Event: District Attorney Recall&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="h-the-main-event-district-attorney-recall">The Main Event: District Attorney Recall&nbsp;</h2>

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

Proposition H would recall District Attorney Chesa Boudin from office, 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 groups.&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><li>Both sides argue that the other side is promoted mainly 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.&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 groups.&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><li>Both sides argue that the other side is promoted mainly 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.&nbsp;</li></ul>

This article has been updated.

June propositions: Everything you should know before you vote

The first-ever auction for leases to build massive wind farms off California’s coast netted final bids of $757.1 million today, signaling the beginning of a competitive market for a new industry producing carbon-free electricity.&nbsp;

The first-ever auction for leases to build massive wind farms off California’s coast netted final bids of $757.1 million today, signaling the beginning of a competitive market for a new industry producing carbon-free electricity.&nbsp;

The<a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2022-10-21/pdf/2022-22871.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> auction</a> — the first on the West Coast — included <a href="https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy/state-activities/california" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five sites</a> about 20 miles off Morro Bay and Humboldt County, totaling 583 square miles of deep ocean waters. The leases from the federal government are the first step in a yearslong regulatory process that could culminate in the nation’s first commercial-scale floating wind turbines off California’s coast.

The<a href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2022-10-21/pdf/2022-22871.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> auction</a> — the first on the West Coast — included <a href="https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy/state-activities/california" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five sites</a> about 20 miles off Morro Bay and Humboldt County, totaling 583 square miles of deep ocean waters. The leases from the federal government are the first step in a yearslong regulatory process that could culminate in the nation’s first commercial-scale floating wind turbines off California’s coast.

The results of the auction offer the first key signs for gauging how strong the market is for producing offshore wind energy off California.

The results of the auction offer the first key signs for gauging how strong the market is for producing offshore wind energy off California.

The total amount — to be paid by five energy companies — was considerably smaller than the record-breaking <a href="https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/biden-harris-administration-sets-offshore-energy-records-437-billion-winning-bids-wind" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$4.37 billion that companies paid for six offshore wind leases off New York and New Jersey’s coasts</a> in February. That was the largest amount ever paid for U.S. offshore energy leases — including for oil and gas. The funds are paid into the U.S. Treasury’s General Fund.

The total amount — to be paid by five energy companies — was considerably smaller than the record-breaking <a href="https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/biden-harris-administration-sets-offshore-energy-records-437-billion-winning-bids-wind" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$4.37 billion that companies paid for six offshore wind leases off New York and New Jersey’s coasts</a> in February. That was the largest amount ever paid for U.S. offshore energy leases — including for oil and gas. The funds are paid into the U.S. Treasury’s General Fund.

While calling the lease sale a “huge success,” Adam Stern, executive director of Offshore Wind California, a trade group for the industry, said the lower lease sales could be due to the uncertainty companies may feel about offshore wind development on the West Coast.&nbsp;The lease area off New York/New Jersey also was 30% larger and will generate about 50% more electricity.

While calling the lease sale a “huge success,” Adam Stern, executive director of Offshore Wind California, a trade group for the industry, said the lower lease sales could be due to the uncertainty companies may feel about offshore wind development on the West Coast.&nbsp;The lease area off New York/New Jersey also was 30% larger and will generate about 50% more electricity.

“Our state is not as far along in preparing for offshore wind in areas like port infrastructure, transmission and procurement policies,” Stern said.

“Our state is not as far along in preparing for offshore wind in areas like port infrastructure, transmission and procurement policies,” Stern said.

<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/10/21/2022-22871/pacific-wind-lease-sale-1-pacw-1-for-commercial-leasing-for-wind-power-on-the-outer-continental" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forty-three</a> companies were eligible to bid on the leases offered by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, which oversees offshore energy and mineral projects. The winners were RWE Offshore Wind Holding, California North Floating, Equinor Wind US, Central California Offshore Wind and Invenergy California Offshore.

<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/10/21/2022-22871/pacific-wind-lease-sale-1-pacw-1-for-commercial-leasing-for-wind-power-on-the-outer-continental" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forty-three</a> companies were eligible to bid on the leases offered by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, which oversees offshore energy and mineral projects. The winners were RWE Offshore Wind Holding, California North Floating, Equinor Wind US, Central California Offshore Wind and Invenergy California Offshore.

The offshore waters included in the auction have the potential to host several hundred turbines that produce more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2022/10/18/governor-newsom-applauds-biden-harris-administration-on-first-ever-offshore-wind-lease-sale-in-the-pacific/">4.5 gigawatts to power about 1.5 million homes</a>.

The offshore waters included in the auction have the potential to host several hundred turbines that produce more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2022/10/18/governor-newsom-applauds-biden-harris-administration-on-first-ever-offshore-wind-lease-sale-in-the-pacific/">4.5 gigawatts to power about 1.5 million homes</a>.

Offshore wind projects are considered critical to meeting California’s goals to provide a new source of electricity, end reliance on fossil fuels and battle climate change.

Offshore wind projects are considered critical to meeting California’s goals to provide a new source of electricity, end reliance on fossil fuels and battle climate change.

The auction is “great news for California’s offshore wind industry, workers and electricity ratepayers,” Stern said. “It’s the most consequential milestone yet for the Golden State’s efforts to make offshore wind a key part of its diverse clean energy future.” 

The auction is “great news for California’s offshore wind industry, workers and electricity ratepayers,” Stern said. “It’s the most consequential milestone yet for the Golden State’s efforts to make offshore wind a key part of its diverse clean energy future.”

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