Mike Ege

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2022 promises to be a lively year at the polls in San Francisco. With recall votes on three school board members and the district attorney, a special election for state assembly and the regular fall elections, there will likely be four separate votes. And a big one in June will include a number of ballot propositions.&nbsp;

2022 promises to be a lively year at the polls in San Francisco. With recall votes on three school board members and the district attorney, a special election for state assembly and the regular fall elections, there will likely be four separate votes. And a big one in June will include a number of ballot propositions.&nbsp;

California’s unique ballot initiative laws mean that voters often confront complicated governance questions that would rarely be put directly to the public in other places. In San Francisco, it’s especially common: over the last ten years, San Francisco voters decided on 102 ballot local measures, compared with 29 in Los Angeles, according to Ballotpedia.

California’s unique ballot initiative laws mean that voters often confront complicated governance questions that would rarely be put directly to the public in other places. In San Francisco, it’s especially common: over the last ten years, San Francisco voters decided on 102 ballot local measures, compared with 29 in Los Angeles, according to Ballotpedia.

Here&#8217;s a look at the policy choices San Francisco voters will likely face on the June 2022 ballot.

Here's a look at the policy choices San Francisco voters will likely face on the June 2022 ballot.

Here&#8217;s a look at the policy choices San Francisco voters will likely face on the June 2022 ballot.

Q: At the last regular meeting of the year, the Board of Supervisors proposed a number of “charter amendments.” What exactly are charter amendments and why do voters decide on them?

Q: At the last regular meeting of the year, the Board of Supervisors proposed a number of “charter amendments.” What exactly are charter amendments and why do voters decide on them?

A: Cities in California can be organized under the general laws of the state, or under a charter adopted by local voters. A charter is a basic law, similar in some ways to a constitution, that allows a city to manage what are called “<a href="https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/Albuquerque3_-_Foundational_Aspects_of_Charter_Cities.pdf">municipal affairs</a>.” What constitutes “municipal affairs” can be fluid, but it’s supposed to refer to workaday things like the provision of city services.

A: Cities in California can be organized under the general laws of the state, or under a charter adopted by local voters. A charter is a basic law, similar in some ways to a constitution, that allows a city to manage what are called “<a href="https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/Albuquerque3_-_Foundational_Aspects_of_Charter_Cities.pdf">municipal affairs</a>.” What constitutes “municipal affairs” can be fluid, but it’s supposed to refer to workaday things like the provision of city services.

San Francisco <a href="https://sfpl.org/pdf/libraries/main/sfhistory/archives-and-manuscripts/charter-commission.pdf">first adopted</a> a city charter in 1898. This was replaced by a new charter in 1932, which was amended over 500 times between 1932 and 1994. A new, simplified charter, adopted in a 1995 vote, reduced the amount of text by two-thirds while giving the mayor more power over the administration of departments and the Board of Supervisors more power over the budget and legislation. Since then it has been amended by the voters 89 times, and it remains a lengthy and detailed document dictating policy on matters ranging from changes in transit fares to employee pensions.&nbsp;

San Francisco <a href="https://sfpl.org/pdf/libraries/main/sfhistory/archives-and-manuscripts/charter-commission.pdf">first adopted</a> a city charter in 1898. This was replaced by a new charter in 1932, which was amended over 500 times between 1932 and 1994. A new, simplified charter, adopted in a 1995 vote, reduced the amount of text by two-thirds while giving the mayor more power over the administration of departments and the Board of Supervisors more power over the budget and legislation. Since then it has been amended by the voters 89 times, and it remains a lengthy and detailed document dictating policy on matters ranging from changes in transit fares to employee pensions.&nbsp;

The charter can only be amended by popular vote. Charter amendments can be put on the ballot by a majority vote of the Board of Supervisors, or alternatively, by any group that can get around 50,000 signatures on a petition. The mayor can also introduce charter amendments, which must be approved by the board before being submitted to the Department of Elections.&nbsp;

The charter can only be amended by popular vote. Charter amendments can be put on the ballot by a majority vote of the Board of Supervisors, or alternatively, by any group that can get around 50,000 signatures on a petition. The mayor can also introduce charter amendments, which must be approved by the board before being submitted to the Department of Elections.&nbsp;

How many charter amendments are being proposed? Will they all go to the ballot?

How many charter amendments are being proposed? Will they all go to the ballot?

Right now there are six proposed amendments, including two which seek to shrink the power of the mayor and are likely to be bitterly debated by the board in the coming weeks. Like all legislation, the charter amendments must be approved by the rules committee and then the full board, before being submitted to the Department of Elections by February 25. It’s possible that some could be altered or withdrawn, depending on what transpires during City Hall sources say will likely be tense negotiations.

Right now there are six proposed amendments, including two which seek to shrink the power of the mayor and are likely to be bitterly debated by the board in the coming weeks. Like all legislation, the charter amendments must be approved by the rules committee and then the full board, before being submitted to the Department of Elections by February 25. It’s possible that some could be altered or withdrawn, depending on what transpires during City Hall sources say will likely be tense negotiations.

Are all the upcoming ballot questions charter amendments?&nbsp;

Are all the upcoming ballot questions charter amendments?&nbsp;

No. Some other types of propositions will be on the June ballot, including the recall of District Attorney <a href="https://sfstandard.com/recall-election-of-district-attorney-chesa-boudin-heads-to-ballot-in-june-2022/">Chesa Boudin</a> and an initiative sponsored by Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/stefani-proposes-ballot-measure-to-create-independent-victims-rights-office-right-to-counsel-for-domestic-violence-survivors/">Catherine Stefani</a> to create a Victims’ Rights Office and provide legal support for domestic violence survivors. Charter amendments, recalls and initiatives all have different rules for how they are placed on the ballot.

No. Some other types of propositions will be on the June ballot, including the recall of District Attorney <a href="https://sfstandard.com/recall-election-of-district-attorney-chesa-boudin-heads-to-ballot-in-june-2022/">Chesa Boudin</a> and an initiative sponsored by Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/stefani-proposes-ballot-measure-to-create-independent-victims-rights-office-right-to-counsel-for-domestic-violence-survivors/">Catherine Stefani</a> to create a Victims’ Rights Office and provide legal support for domestic violence survivors. Charter amendments, recalls and initiatives all have different rules for how they are placed on the ballot.

Two more initiatives, one dealing with <a href="https://sfelections.sfgov.org/sites/default/files/Documents/candidates/12012021_UseOfHerbicidesOnCityProperty_TS.pdf">herbicides in city parks</a>, and another on setting <a href="https://sfelections.sfgov.org/sites/default/files/Documents/candidates/RefuseCollectionAndDisposalAct_Legal%20Text.pdf">garbage pickup rates</a>, could also make it to the ballot depending on what deadlines they meet, according to Department of Elections staff.

Two more initiatives, one dealing with <a href="https://sfelections.sfgov.org/sites/default/files/Documents/candidates/12012021_UseOfHerbicidesOnCityProperty_TS.pdf">herbicides in city parks</a>, and another on setting <a href="https://sfelections.sfgov.org/sites/default/files/Documents/candidates/RefuseCollectionAndDisposalAct_Legal%20Text.pdf">garbage pickup rates</a>, could also make it to the ballot depending on what deadlines they meet, according to Department of Elections staff.

Additionally, Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced another initiative, which would make the Public Health Emergency Leave <a href="https://www.natlawreview.com/article/san-francisco-board-supervisors-extends-paid-covid-19-leave">emergency ordinance</a> instituted during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic permanent, at the Supervisors&#8217; Jan. 4 meeting.

Additionally, Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced another initiative, which would make the Public Health Emergency Leave <a href="https://www.natlawreview.com/article/san-francisco-board-supervisors-extends-paid-covid-19-leave">emergency ordinance</a> instituted during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic permanent, at the Supervisors' Jan. 4 meeting.

Additionally, Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced another initiative, which would make the Public Health Emergency Leave <a href="https://www.natlawreview.com/article/san-francisco-board-supervisors-extends-paid-covid-19-leave">emergency ordinance</a> instituted during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic permanent, at the Supervisors&#8217; Jan. 4 meeting.

So what are these Charter Amendments and why are they being put forward?&nbsp;

So what are these Charter Amendments and why are they being put forward?&nbsp;

Here’s the rundown on what each of the six proposed charter amendments would do: &nbsp;

Here’s the rundown on what each of the six proposed charter amendments would do: &nbsp;

<ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Create a new City Children’s Agency and Department of Early Childhood, which would replace and absorb the duties of existing agencies; and change the process for providing financial assistance to the San Francisco Unified School District. Sponsored by Mayor Breed and Supervisors Melgar and Mandelman.</li></ol>

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<ol><li>Create a new City Children’s Agency and Department of Early Childhood, which would replace and absorb the duties of existing agencies; and change the process for providing financial assistance to the San Francisco Unified School District. Sponsored by Mayor Breed and Supervisors Melgar and Mandelman.</li></ol>

As <a href="https://sfstandard.com/breed-steps-into-school-fight-proposes-ballot-initiative-to-give-city-more-control/">reported earlier</a> by The Standard, this measure is in part a reaction to recent controversies around the school board and the school district’s collapsing finances. But it will also consolidate services to children and families currently provided by the city, such as pandemic recovery assistance, mentorship and pre-school and after-school programs.&nbsp;

As <a href="https://sfstandard.com/breed-steps-into-school-fight-proposes-ballot-initiative-to-give-city-more-control/">reported earlier</a> by The Standard, this measure is in part a reaction to recent controversies around the school board and the school district’s collapsing finances. But it will also consolidate services to children and families currently provided by the city, such as pandemic recovery assistance, mentorship and pre-school and after-school programs.&nbsp;

<ol class="wp-block-list" start="2"><li>Split the appointing authority for 21 city commissions equally between the Board of Supervisors and the mayor, make mayoral appointments to these and other commissions subject to board approval; and increase the authority of the City Administrator. Sponsored by Supervisors Chan, Ronen, Peskin and Preston.</li></ol>

<ol start="2"><li>Split the appointing authority for 21 city commissions equally between the Board of Supervisors and the mayor, make mayoral appointments to these and other commissions subject to board approval; and increase the authority of the City Administrator. Sponsored by Supervisors Chan, Ronen, Peskin and Preston.</li></ol>

At the December 14 meeting, lead sponsor Connie Chan described it as a “clean government measure” aimed at “political cronyism” and the “pay-to-play culture” that led to major corruption scandals at the Department of Public Works and other city agencies. It’s the most radical of the charter amendments proposed and would substantially increase the Board’s power, all but guaranteeing a contentious approval process.

At the December 14 meeting, lead sponsor Connie Chan described it as a “clean government measure” aimed at “political cronyism” and the “pay-to-play culture” that led to major corruption scandals at the Department of Public Works and other city agencies. It’s the most radical of the charter amendments proposed and would substantially increase the Board’s power, all but guaranteeing a contentious approval process.

<ol class="wp-block-list" start="3"><li>Reorganize the Building Inspection Commission and Department. Sponsored by Supervisors Melgar, Peskin, Ronen and Mandleman.</li></ol>

<ol start="3"><li>Reorganize the Building Inspection Commission and Department. Sponsored by Supervisors Melgar, Peskin, Ronen and Mandleman.</li></ol>

Lead sponsor Myrna Melgar described this as an effort ‘to restore the confidence in the Building Inspection Department’ by, among other things, bringing appointments into a board approval process as done with other commissions. It would also remove dedicated seats for industries on the commission, a much-criticized set-up that she described as a &#8220;conflict of interest&#8221; where &#8220;the regulated are the regulators.&#8221; It’s in reaction to scandals around the agency ranging from <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/09/angus-mccarthy-president-of-dept-of-building-inspection-commission-admits-he-has-private-builders-edit-redraft-dept-of-building-inspection-materials/">highly irregular</a> permits to its failure to debar a “permit expediter” who also happened to be a former commission president and <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/11/rodrigo-santos-was-coddled-by-the-department-of-building-inspection-for-years-now-it-wants-him-gone-but-cant-get-rid-of-him/">was indicted</a> for embezzling from his own clients.&nbsp;

Lead sponsor Myrna Melgar described this as an effort ‘to restore the confidence in the Building Inspection Department’ by, among other things, bringing appointments into a board approval process as done with other commissions. It would also remove dedicated seats for industries on the commission, a much-criticized set-up that she described as a "conflict of interest" where "the regulated are the regulators." It’s in reaction to scandals around the agency ranging from <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/09/angus-mccarthy-president-of-dept-of-building-inspection-commission-admits-he-has-private-builders-edit-redraft-dept-of-building-inspection-materials/">highly irregular</a> permits to its failure to debar a “permit expediter” who also happened to be a former commission president and <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/11/rodrigo-santos-was-coddled-by-the-department-of-building-inspection-for-years-now-it-wants-him-gone-but-cant-get-rid-of-him/">was indicted</a> for embezzling from his own clients.&nbsp;

Lead sponsor Myrna Melgar described this as an effort ‘to restore the confidence in the Building Inspection Department’ by, among other things, bringing appointments into a board approval process as done with other commissions. It would also remove dedicated seats for industries on the commission, a much-criticized set-up that she described as a &#8220;conflict of interest&#8221; where &#8220;the regulated are the regulators.&#8221; It’s in reaction to scandals around the agency ranging from <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/09/angus-mccarthy-president-of-dept-of-building-inspection-commission-admits-he-has-private-builders-edit-redraft-dept-of-building-inspection-materials/">highly irregular</a> permits to its failure to debar a “permit expediter” who also happened to be a former commission president and <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/11/rodrigo-santos-was-coddled-by-the-department-of-building-inspection-for-years-now-it-wants-him-gone-but-cant-get-rid-of-him/">was indicted</a> for embezzling from his own clients.&nbsp;

<ol class="wp-block-list" start="4"><li>Transfer the authority for appointing replacement members of the Board of Supervisors, Board of Education and City College Board of Trustees from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors by majority vote, and extending the timelines for recall elections. Sponsored by Supervisors Peskin, Walton, Ronen, Preston, Chan, and Melgar.</li></ol>

<ol start="4"><li>Transfer the authority for appointing replacement members of the Board of Supervisors, Board of Education and City College Board of Trustees from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors by majority vote, and extending the timelines for recall elections. Sponsored by Supervisors Peskin, Walton, Ronen, Preston, Chan, and Melgar.</li></ol>

In his remarks at introduction, principal sponsor Aaron Peskin described this measure as &#8220;recall reform,&#8221; but neglected to mention the part about removing replacement authority from the mayor. When a Peskin spokesperson was asked about the unusual presentation of his measure, he offered no comment other than to refer to the supervisor’s remarks at the December 14 meeting.

In his remarks at introduction, principal sponsor Aaron Peskin described this measure as "recall reform," but neglected to mention the part about removing replacement authority from the mayor. When a Peskin spokesperson was asked about the unusual presentation of his measure, he offered no comment other than to refer to the supervisor’s remarks at the December 14 meeting.

In his remarks at introduction, principal sponsor Aaron Peskin described this measure as &#8220;recall reform,&#8221; but neglected to mention the part about removing replacement authority from the mayor. When a Peskin spokesperson was asked about the unusual presentation of his measure, he offered no comment other than to refer to the supervisor’s remarks at the December 14 meeting.

<ol class="wp-block-list" start="5"><li>Adopt a policy declaration urging the Retirement Board to divest from all fossil fuel stocks. Sponsored by Peskin, Preston, and Melgar</li></ol>

<ol start="5"><li>Adopt a policy declaration urging the Retirement Board to divest from all fossil fuel stocks. Sponsored by Peskin, Preston, and Melgar</li></ol>

This measure reflects Peskin and allies’ dissatisfaction with progress towards divestment by the Retirement Board, which approves investment decisions for the city pension fund.&nbsp;

This measure reflects Peskin and allies’ dissatisfaction with progress towards divestment by the Retirement Board, which approves investment decisions for the city pension fund.&nbsp;

<ol class="wp-block-list" start="6"><li>Expedite review of certain affordable housing projects. Sponsored by Mayor Breed and Supervisor Safai.</li></ol>

<ol start="6"><li>Expedite review of certain affordable housing projects. Sponsored by Mayor Breed and Supervisor Safai.</li></ol>

This would apply to new buildings with at least 25 dwelling units that are either 100% affordable, or similar market-rate projects which increase the number of on-site inclusionary affordable units by 15%. Builders would also have to comply with city prevailing wage requirements.&nbsp;

This would apply to new buildings with at least 25 dwelling units that are either 100% affordable, or similar market-rate projects which increase the number of on-site inclusionary affordable units by 15%. Builders would also have to comply with city prevailing wage requirements.&nbsp;

Amendments 2 and 4 look like efforts to shift power from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors. What’s going on there?&nbsp;

Amendments 2 and 4 look like efforts to shift power from the mayor to the Board of Supervisors. What’s going on there?&nbsp;

The Supervisors have increasingly turned to the ballot as a mechanism for asserting more control over City Hall. Since 2000, there have been 11 charter amendments aimed in some way at shrinking the Mayor’s power to appoint officials or administer departments. Five of them passed.

The Supervisors have increasingly turned to the ballot as a mechanism for asserting more control over City Hall. Since 2000, there have been 11 charter amendments aimed in some way at shrinking the Mayor’s power to appoint officials or administer departments. Five of them passed.

This article was updated on Jan. 5, 2022.

This article was updated on Jan. 5, 2022.

Explainer: What SF voters need to know about 2022 ballot measures

Annie Gaus

The morning after a recent burglary spree in Union Square, Mayor London Breed zeroed in on the money<meta charset="utf-8">—not what was gained or lost by the thieves and their victims, but rather the impact of such incidents on San Francisco’s massive, yet over-stretched budget.&nbsp;

The morning after a recent burglary spree in Union Square, Mayor London Breed zeroed in on the money<meta charset="utf-8">—not what was gained or lost by the thieves and their victims, but rather the impact of such incidents on San Francisco’s massive, yet over-stretched budget.&nbsp;

&#8220;What happens when people vandalize and commit those level of crimes in San Francisco, we not only lose those businesses, we lose those jobs,” said Breed at a Nov. 20 press conference. “We lose that tax revenue that helps to support our economy that helps to support many of the social service programs that we have in the city in the first place. We can&#8217;t allow that to happen.”

"What happens when people vandalize and commit those level of crimes in San Francisco, we not only lose those businesses, we lose those jobs,” said Breed at a Nov. 20 press conference. “We lose that tax revenue that helps to support our economy that helps to support many of the social service programs that we have in the city in the first place. We can't allow that to happen.”

&#8220;What happens when people vandalize and commit those level of crimes in San Francisco, we not only lose those businesses, we lose those jobs,” said Breed at a Nov. 20 press conference. “We lose that tax revenue that helps to support our economy that helps to support many of the social service programs that we have in the city in the first place. We can&#8217;t allow that to happen.”

As the city crawls out of the pandemic, its roughly $13 billion annual budget hinges in part on the fate of downtown: how quickly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/indoor-mask-mandates-dampen-outlook-for-s-f-s-downtown/">workers return to offices</a>, how many merchants survive, and even sales tax revenue from holiday shoppers and tourists. Prior to the pandemic, Districts 3 and 6—which encompass downtown—generated more than half of the city’s sales tax revenue, along with an outsized portion of business and property taxes.

As the city crawls out of the pandemic, its roughly $13 billion annual budget hinges in part on the fate of downtown: how quickly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/indoor-mask-mandates-dampen-outlook-for-s-f-s-downtown/">workers return to offices</a>, how many merchants survive, and even sales tax revenue from holiday shoppers and tourists. Prior to the pandemic, Districts 3 and 6—which encompass downtown—generated more than half of the city’s sales tax revenue, along with an outsized portion of business and property taxes.

Bolstered by a roaring economy and tourism sector, San Francisco’s annual budget was on a steady upward climb for years, roughly doubling between 2011 and 2021. As the city’s economy boomed, businesses taxes nearly tripled between 2010 and 2020. Over the same period, flourishing tourism and conventions drove hotel and sales taxes past the billion-dollar mark; likewise, rising real estate values helped to push property tax collections, which are based on assessed values per year, to new heights.&nbsp;

Bolstered by a roaring economy and tourism sector, San Francisco’s annual budget was on a steady upward climb for years, roughly doubling between 2011 and 2021. As the city’s economy boomed, businesses taxes nearly tripled between 2010 and 2020. Over the same period, flourishing tourism and conventions drove hotel and sales taxes past the billion-dollar mark; likewise, rising real estate values helped to push property tax collections, which are based on assessed values per year, to new heights.&nbsp;

But COVID knocked much of that growth off track, and San Francisco&#8217;s economy has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">slower to recover</a> than other major cities, at least by some measures: In a report published last week, the city’s budget office noted that despite improvements in recent months, hotel occupancy, office visits and trips downtown remained drastically below pre-COVID levels in October. Small business formation remains flat, and convention bookings—typically a cash cow for the city—are very slow.

But COVID knocked much of that growth off track, and San Francisco's economy has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">slower to recover</a> than other major cities, at least by some measures: In a report published last week, the city’s budget office noted that despite improvements in recent months, hotel occupancy, office visits and trips downtown remained drastically below pre-COVID levels in October. Small business formation remains flat, and convention bookings—typically a cash cow for the city—are very slow.

But COVID knocked much of that growth off track, and San Francisco&#8217;s economy has been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">slower to recover</a> than other major cities, at least by some measures: In a report published last week, the city’s budget office noted that despite improvements in recent months, hotel occupancy, office visits and trips downtown remained drastically below pre-COVID levels in October. Small business formation remains flat, and convention bookings—typically a cash cow for the city—are very slow.

During the pandemic, an infusion of federal and state funds helped to close the city’s budget gap<meta charset="utf-8">—but continuing economic malaise spells an uncertain future for San Francisco’s precariously balanced budget.&nbsp;

During the pandemic, an infusion of federal and state funds helped to close the city’s budget gap<meta charset="utf-8">—but continuing economic malaise spells an uncertain future for San Francisco’s precariously balanced budget.&nbsp;

Explore the visualization below to see how key revenue sources have changed over time.

Explore the visualization below to see how key revenue sources have changed over time.

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As to where San Francisco’s money goes, tax and other revenues flow into a highly complex collection of funds—some of which are restricted to specific uses, and others that are discretionary.&nbsp;

As to where San Francisco’s money goes, tax and other revenues flow into a highly complex collection of funds—some of which are restricted to specific uses, and others that are discretionary.&nbsp;

Unlike most other U.S. cities, San Francisco is incorporated as both a city and county. That means it carries out both municipal functions, such as police and fire, and county-level functions, such as courts. San Francisco’s budget also includes so-called “enterprise” departments that generate their own revenues and function much like a business: San Francisco International Airport, Port of San Francisco, Municipal Transportation Agency, the Department of Public Health and the Public Utilities Commission. Service charges, primarily from those departments, make up the city’s single largest source of revenue. Those revenues are restricted, and largely flow back into enterprise funds to support those same departments.

Unlike most other U.S. cities, San Francisco is incorporated as both a city and county. That means it carries out both municipal functions, such as police and fire, and county-level functions, such as courts. San Francisco’s budget also includes so-called “enterprise” departments that generate their own revenues and function much like a business: San Francisco International Airport, Port of San Francisco, Municipal Transportation Agency, the Department of Public Health and the Public Utilities Commission. Service charges, primarily from those departments, make up the city’s single largest source of revenue. Those revenues are restricted, and largely flow back into enterprise funds to support those same departments.

Most of the city’s local tax revenue flows into the General Fund, which reflects discretionary spending that can be adjusted each year as part of the budget negotiation process. Some revenues, however, are restricted to special funds serving a specific purpose<meta charset="utf-8">—like debt repayment, capital projects, or parks and library maintenance<meta charset="utf-8">—that voters have approved over the years. Transfers are authorized flows of money in and out of funds that help balance the city’s budget.

Most of the city’s local tax revenue flows into the General Fund, which reflects discretionary spending that can be adjusted each year as part of the budget negotiation process. Some revenues, however, are restricted to special funds serving a specific purpose<meta charset="utf-8">—like debt repayment, capital projects, or parks and library maintenance<meta charset="utf-8">—that voters have approved over the years. Transfers are authorized flows of money in and out of funds that help balance the city’s budget.

San Francisco’s spending is categorized by use, from public protection and community health to arts and culture. <a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-sankey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to open the full interactive version</a> of the chart below to see the flow of San Francisco&#8217;s money flows through various funds and uses in the current budget cycle.

San Francisco’s spending is categorized by use, from public protection and community health to arts and culture. <a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-sankey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to open the full interactive version</a> of the chart below to see the flow of San Francisco's money flows through various funds and uses in the current budget cycle.

San Francisco’s spending is categorized by use, from public protection and community health to arts and culture. <a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-sankey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to open the full interactive version</a> of the chart below to see the flow of San Francisco&#8217;s money flows through various funds and uses in the current budget cycle.

San Francisco’s money is allocated across 53 departments and agencies with budgets as high as $2.7 billion (Department of Public Health) and as low as $1 million (Board of Appeals) for the fiscal year ending in June.

San Francisco’s money is allocated across 53 departments and agencies with budgets as high as $2.7 billion (Department of Public Health) and as low as $1 million (Board of Appeals) for the fiscal year ending in June.

Every year, the Mayor&#8217;s Office and the Controller&#8217;s Office review revenue forecasts for upcoming years and issue detailed guidance to city departments on the preparation of their budgets. Individual departments then submit their own budget plans to the Controller and the Mayor&#8217;s Office, which consolidates those budget requests into a balanced citywide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">budget proposal</a>.

Every year, the Mayor's Office and the Controller's Office review revenue forecasts for upcoming years and issue detailed guidance to city departments on the preparation of their budgets. Individual departments then submit their own budget plans to the Controller and the Mayor's Office, which consolidates those budget requests into a balanced citywide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">budget proposal</a>.

Every year, the Mayor&#8217;s Office and the Controller&#8217;s Office review revenue forecasts for upcoming years and issue detailed guidance to city departments on the preparation of their budgets. Individual departments then submit their own budget plans to the Controller and the Mayor&#8217;s Office, which consolidates those budget requests into a balanced citywide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">budget proposal</a>.

In June of each year, Supervisors hold a series of hearings with department heads, as well as with members of the public, in order to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-board-of-supervisors-kick-off-13-billion-budget-negotiations/">develop their own budget recommendations</a> and requests for their districts. The Board of Supervisors must approve a final budget by August 1, which then heads to the Mayor’s desk for final signature.&nbsp;

In June of each year, Supervisors hold a series of hearings with department heads, as well as with members of the public, in order to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-board-of-supervisors-kick-off-13-billion-budget-negotiations/">develop their own budget recommendations</a> and requests for their districts. The Board of Supervisors must approve a final budget by August 1, which then heads to the Mayor’s desk for final signature.&nbsp;

In 2020 and 2021, the federal government passed two stimulus bills that allotted hundreds of millions in relief funds to San Francisco and other local governments that saw their revenues evaporate. Those stimulus funds flowed into San Francisco’s general fund, and into individual departments that were either heavily impacted by pandemic, such as the Municipal Transit Agency, or were tasked with emergency response, such as the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, which received an infusion of state and federal monies for emergency shelter last fiscal year.&nbsp;

In 2020 and 2021, the federal government passed two stimulus bills that allotted hundreds of millions in relief funds to San Francisco and other local governments that saw their revenues evaporate. Those stimulus funds flowed into San Francisco’s general fund, and into individual departments that were either heavily impacted by pandemic, such as the Municipal Transit Agency, or were tasked with emergency response, such as the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, which received an infusion of state and federal monies for emergency shelter last fiscal year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-bubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the interactive bubble chart</a> shown below to see each department’s total budget for fiscal 2022, and how it compares to last year.

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-bubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the interactive bubble chart</a> shown below to see each department’s total budget for fiscal 2022, and how it compares to last year.

core/image

Department-level budgets are categorized by spending categories, fund source, and other details, and are codified in a document called the <a href="https://sfcontroller.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Budget/AAO%20FY2021-22%20%26%20FY2022-23%20-%20FINAL%2020210730.pdf">Annual Appropriation Ordinance</a> each year. That document is the final citywide budget signed by the Mayor in August.&nbsp;

Department-level budgets are categorized by spending categories, fund source, and other details, and are codified in a document called the <a href="https://sfcontroller.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Budget/AAO%20FY2021-22%20%26%20FY2022-23%20-%20FINAL%2020210730.pdf">Annual Appropriation Ordinance</a> each year. That document is the final citywide budget signed by the Mayor in August.&nbsp;

By a wide margin, the largest chunk of spending is compensation for the city’s workforce of roughly 35,000. Salaries and benefits typically make up the largest chunk of department-level spending. Depending on a department’s function, they might also allocate funds to areas like building improvements, capital projects, or grants to nonprofits. Departments also regularly hire other city departments for services like security, legal help, tax preparation, health care, or maintenance. The city’s budget analysts account for that activity through transfers, meaning those purchases are marked as revenue and adjusted later in the final budget preparation.&nbsp;

By a wide margin, the largest chunk of spending is compensation for the city’s workforce of roughly 35,000. Salaries and benefits typically make up the largest chunk of department-level spending. Depending on a department’s function, they might also allocate funds to areas like building improvements, capital projects, or grants to nonprofits. Departments also regularly hire other city departments for services like security, legal help, tax preparation, health care, or maintenance. The city’s budget analysts account for that activity through transfers, meaning those purchases are marked as revenue and adjusted later in the final budget preparation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-treemap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the visualization</a> below to see how much each department plans to spend this year, and what those funds are used for.

<a href="https://elbertwang3.github.io/budget-treemap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to explore the visualization</a> below to see how much each department plans to spend this year, and what those funds are used for.

Visualizations by Elbert Wang &amp; Kaitlyn Bartley

Visualizations by Elbert Wang &amp; Kaitlyn Bartley

SF’s budget in 4 charts: The pandemic effect on city finances and the prospects for recovery

Kevin Truong

San Francisco put a new Covid-19 policy in place to keep workers and residents safe, while helping them get back to their normal lives as soon as possible. But employers say the new rules, which require a negative test after five days of isolation, are nearly impossible to comply with because of a lack of available testing.

San Francisco put a new Covid-19 policy in place to keep workers and residents safe, while helping them get back to their normal lives as soon as possible. But employers say the new rules, which require a negative test after five days of isolation, are nearly impossible to comply with because of a lack of available testing.

“The stress right now is the tests. Nobody can get rapid tests unless they were stockpiling beforehand,” said Laurie Thomas, the president of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association. “The question I’m getting from numerous restaurants is: ‘Why can’t the city provide them to us?’”

“The stress right now is the tests. Nobody can get rapid tests unless they were stockpiling beforehand,” said Laurie Thomas, the president of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association. “The question I’m getting from numerous restaurants is: ‘Why can’t the city provide them to us?’”

Thomas, who owns Rose&#8217;s Café and Terzo in the Cow Hollow neighborhood, has been hit by the shortage herself. One of her employees who was experiencing symptoms waited three hours for a test. She sent him home with one of her two remaining at-home tests and is unsure when she’ll be able to get more.&nbsp;

Thomas, who owns Rose's Café and Terzo in the Cow Hollow neighborhood, has been hit by the shortage herself. One of her employees who was experiencing symptoms waited three hours for a test. She sent him home with one of her two remaining at-home tests and is unsure when she’ll be able to get more.&nbsp;

Thomas, who owns Rose&#8217;s Café and Terzo in the Cow Hollow neighborhood, has been hit by the shortage herself. One of her employees who was experiencing symptoms waited three hours for a test. She sent him home with one of her two remaining at-home tests and is unsure when she’ll be able to get more.&nbsp;

On Dec. 31, the San Francisco Department of Public Health updated its recommendations for people who were infected with <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 or had close contact with an infected person. Taking a page from the CDC, the city shortened the length of time individuals should isolate following a <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 infection from 10 days to five days since the onset of symptoms, or since the first positive <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 test. However, individuals in San Francisco are required to test negative on Day 5 and have no symptoms in order to leave isolation, according to the city’s health order. They also must wear masks while around others for a total of 10 days.

On Dec. 31, the San Francisco Department of Public Health updated its recommendations for people who were infected with <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 or had close contact with an infected person. Taking a page from the CDC, the city shortened the length of time individuals should isolate following a <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 infection from 10 days to five days since the onset of symptoms, or since the first positive <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 test. However, individuals in San Francisco are required to test negative on Day 5 and have no symptoms in order to leave isolation, according to the city’s health order. They also must wear masks while around others for a total of 10 days.

The policy change, which officials said is part of an effort to ensure adequate staffing, is meant to allow people to resume their normal life and activities sooner.&nbsp;

The policy change, which officials said is part of an effort to ensure adequate staffing, is meant to allow people to resume their normal life and activities sooner.&nbsp;

The problem? Tests are not readily available.&nbsp;

The problem? Tests are not readily available.&nbsp;

Bay Area residents have <a href="https://abc7news.com/covid-testing-rapid-test-where-to-get-kits-sold-out/11419504/">reported waiting up to seven hours</a> for a PCR test and rapid antigen tests are also in short supply, with many local drug stores left with little to no inventory.

Bay Area residents have <a href="https://abc7news.com/covid-testing-rapid-test-where-to-get-kits-sold-out/11419504/">reported waiting up to seven hours</a> for a PCR test and rapid antigen tests are also in short supply, with many local drug stores left with little to no inventory.

Dr. Grant Colfax, San Francisco’s health director, said at a Tuesday press conference that the city is in the process of procuring additional rapid tests, but they likely won’t arrive for two weeks — and will be earmarked for first responders and others in high-risk settings like nursing homes.

Dr. Grant Colfax, San Francisco’s health director, said at a Tuesday press conference that the city is in the process of procuring additional rapid tests, but they likely won’t arrive for two weeks — and will be earmarked for first responders and others in high-risk settings like nursing homes.

“It makes me angry because we had time to ramp up testing and we didn’t,” said UCSF infectious disease expert Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, who compared the situation to the movie “Groundhog Day” in which a character relives the same day over and over again.  

“It makes me angry because we had time to ramp up testing and we didn’t,” said UCSF infectious disease expert Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, who compared the situation to the movie “Groundhog Day” in which a character relives the same day over and over again.

Chin-Hong said the testing shortage was caused in part by the Biden Administration’s decision to “put all of its eggs into the vaccine basket.”&nbsp;

Chin-Hong said the testing shortage was caused in part by the Biden Administration’s decision to “put all of its eggs into the vaccine basket.”&nbsp;

“I love what the Biden Administration did with setting up a national strategy and aligning science and policies, but what they didn’t do was diversify their strategies against <meta charset="utf-8">Covid,” Chin-Hong said. “Not everyone ended up getting vaccinated, plus nobody anticipated a variant like Omicron that sort of subverts vaccines and gives people breakthrough infections.”

“I love what the Biden Administration did with setting up a national strategy and aligning science and policies, but what they didn’t do was diversify their strategies against <meta charset="utf-8">Covid,” Chin-Hong said. “Not everyone ended up getting vaccinated, plus nobody anticipated a variant like Omicron that sort of subverts vaccines and gives people breakthrough infections.”

San Francisco agencies and organizations are already struggling with a staffing shortage due to the increased transmissibility of the Omicron variant. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency tweeted on Monday that <a href="https://twitter.com/sfmta_muni/status/1478165215858417665">seven of its bus routes</a> may experience extended wait times because of a lack of drivers.&nbsp;

San Francisco agencies and organizations are already struggling with a staffing shortage due to the increased transmissibility of the Omicron variant. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency tweeted on Monday that <a href="https://twitter.com/sfmta_muni/status/1478165215858417665">seven of its bus routes</a> may experience extended wait times because of a lack of drivers.&nbsp;

At the virtual press conference Tuesday, Mayor London Breed reported at least 400 city employees — 167 police officers, 135 members of the fire department and nearly 100 Muni employees — are currently under quarantine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At the virtual press conference Tuesday, Mayor London Breed reported at least 400 city employees — 167 police officers, 135 members of the fire department and nearly 100 Muni employees — are currently under quarantine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Breed said the city is taking steps to prioritize essential city services, including police, fire, transit and garbage pickup.

Breed said the city is taking steps to prioritize essential city services, including police, fire, transit and garbage pickup.

“We’re not shutting anything down, we’re not closing businesses. This is not 2020. But we need to take action so that people are not all sick at the same time,” Breed said. “To put it simply, right now we’re learning how to live with <meta charset="utf-8">Covid.”

“We’re not shutting anything down, we’re not closing businesses. This is not 2020. But we need to take action so that people are not all sick at the same time,” Breed said. “To put it simply, right now we’re learning how to live with <meta charset="utf-8">Covid.”

She noted that the Department of Public Health is in the process of expanding hours and availability for testing, and she called on other health providers to contribute to the effort.&nbsp;

She noted that the Department of Public Health is in the process of expanding hours and availability for testing, and she called on other health providers to contribute to the effort.&nbsp;

A number of local businesses have closed temporarily because of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/are-sfs-virus-defenses-strong-enough-for-omicron/">Omicron wave</a> and point to the testing shortage as a key factor in their decision. Pearl 6101 in the Outer Richmond <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYP25BAJoWE/">posted on Instagram</a> that the restaurant closed on Jan. 3 “because of the severe lag time in testing.”

A number of local businesses have closed temporarily because of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/are-sfs-virus-defenses-strong-enough-for-omicron/">Omicron wave</a> and point to the testing shortage as a key factor in their decision. Pearl 6101 in the Outer Richmond <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYP25BAJoWE/">posted on Instagram</a> that the restaurant closed on Jan. 3 “because of the severe lag time in testing.”

Mission District residents wait in line to get tested for Covid-19 at the testing site on 24th and Capp streets on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021. | Camille Cohen

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Omicron-12-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22385"/><figcaption>Mission District residents wait in line to get tested for Covid-19 at the testing site on 24th and Capp streets on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021. | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Omicron-12-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-22385"/><figcaption>Mission District residents wait in line to get tested for Covid-19 at the testing site on 24th and Capp streets on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021. | Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

“You’re kind of stuck between a rock and a hard place because you need a test to exit, but you can’t get one,” Chin-Hong said. “Although the glass half-full point is if you can shave any time off of 10 days, that&#8217;s going to mean a lot to people and employers.”

“You’re kind of stuck between a rock and a hard place because you need a test to exit, but you can’t get one,” Chin-Hong said. “Although the glass half-full point is if you can shave any time off of 10 days, that's going to mean a lot to people and employers.”

“You’re kind of stuck between a rock and a hard place because you need a test to exit, but you can’t get one,” Chin-Hong said. “Although the glass half-full point is if you can shave any time off of 10 days, that&#8217;s going to mean a lot to people and employers.”

Jason Halverson, chef and partner of Hi Neighbor Hospitality Group, said his company has had a number of <meta charset="utf-8">Covid scares and getting adequate testing has been a struggle.

Jason Halverson, chef and partner of Hi Neighbor Hospitality Group, said his company has had a number of <meta charset="utf-8">Covid scares and getting adequate testing has been a struggle.

“If somebody is out sick, the question becomes: Do they have <meta charset="utf-8">Covid or do they not?” Halverson said. “It puts everyone on edge and then there’s the frustration that you’re not able to know because there are no tests available.”

“If somebody is out sick, the question becomes: Do they have <meta charset="utf-8">Covid or do they not?” Halverson said. “It puts everyone on edge and then there’s the frustration that you’re not able to know because there are no tests available.”

He and his partners have gone on “test hunting” expeditions to local drug stores to check their supply of rapid tests.&nbsp;

He and his partners have gone on “test hunting” expeditions to local drug stores to check their supply of rapid tests.&nbsp;

“Currently, I’m batting around .500,” Halverson quipped.&nbsp;

“Currently, I’m batting around .500,” Halverson quipped.&nbsp;

PCR tests haven’t been much easier to come by as Halverson’s recent experience with an employee demonstrated.&nbsp;

PCR tests haven’t been much easier to come by as Halverson’s recent experience with an employee demonstrated.&nbsp;

“I wanted to get them a more accurate test for a little more confidence and those aren’t readily available in the kind of timeline we need to potentially get someone back to work,” Halverson said.&nbsp;

“I wanted to get them a more accurate test for a little more confidence and those aren’t readily available in the kind of timeline we need to potentially get someone back to work,” Halverson said.&nbsp;

Thomas, of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association, noted that the previous requirement of 10 days of isolation regardless of symptoms has been “a huge burden,” particularly as government programs meant to pay out sick leave for workers have expired.&nbsp;

Thomas, of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association, noted that the previous requirement of 10 days of isolation regardless of symptoms has been “a huge burden,” particularly as government programs meant to pay out sick leave for workers have expired.&nbsp;

Based on her communications with public health officials, Thomas doesn’t foresee any additional restrictions for restaurants — like forced closures or reduced capacity — being enacted. But the delays around testing access have now become a primary concern.

Based on her communications with public health officials, Thomas doesn’t foresee any additional restrictions for restaurants — like forced closures or reduced capacity — being enacted. But the delays around testing access have now become a primary concern.

The Omicron variant is hitting San Francisco hard with an average of 829 cases per day, according to the city’s public health department. But there’s reason for optimism as the city’s ICU occupancy sits <a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/COVID-19HospitalsDashboard/Hospitals?:embed=y&amp;:showVizHome=no">around 66%</a>, below both the California and national averages.

The Omicron variant is hitting San Francisco hard with an average of 829 cases per day, according to the city’s public health department. But there’s reason for optimism as the city’s ICU occupancy sits <a href="https://public.tableau.com/views/COVID-19HospitalsDashboard/Hospitals?:embed=y&amp;:showVizHome=no">around 66%</a>, below both the California and national averages.

Chin-Hong said going forward he expects the federal government to be more balanced with its <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 approach. He pointed to the Biden administration’s announcement that it will distribute 500 million free at-home rapid <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 tests starting this month as a positive sign.

Chin-Hong said going forward he expects the federal government to be more balanced with its <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 approach. He pointed to the Biden administration’s announcement that it will distribute 500 million free at-home rapid <meta charset="utf-8">Covid-19 tests starting this month as a positive sign.

The current domestic testing situation is a far cry from places like South Korea and the U.K., according to Chin-Hong. In those countries, there’s essentially unlimited free testing to anyone who wants it.

The current domestic testing situation is a far cry from places like South Korea and the U.K., according to Chin-Hong. In those countries, there’s essentially unlimited free testing to anyone who wants it.

“That is what we should aim for, because at the end of the day <meta charset="utf-8">Covid is not just my problem, it&#8217;s everybody&#8217;s problem — I can spread it to people,” Chin-Hong said. “Testing is not just my issue, like I&#8217;m checking my cholesterol, but by checking a <meta charset="utf-8">Covid test, I&#8217;m actually affecting the health of the community.”

“That is what we should aim for, because at the end of the day <meta charset="utf-8">Covid is not just my problem, it's everybody's problem — I can spread it to people,” Chin-Hong said. “Testing is not just my issue, like I'm checking my cholesterol, but by checking a <meta charset="utf-8">Covid test, I'm actually affecting the health of the community.”

“That is what we should aim for, because at the end of the day <meta charset="utf-8">Covid is not just my problem, it&#8217;s everybody&#8217;s problem — I can spread it to people,” Chin-Hong said. “Testing is not just my issue, like I&#8217;m checking my cholesterol, but by checking a <meta charset="utf-8">Covid test, I&#8217;m actually affecting the health of the community.”

Covid conundrum: Workers go ‘test hunting’ as shortage imperils SF’s pandemic recovery

In the earliest days of the pandemic, critical care doctors tried their best to rescue patients from the worst of a disease that was only narrowly understood. In the spring of 2020, even as the medical community was struggling to figure out the basics of the novel coronavirus, reports of lengthy and life-altering Covid hangovers began to emerge.

In the earliest days of the pandemic, critical care doctors tried their best to rescue patients from the worst of a disease that was only narrowly understood. In the spring of 2020, even as the medical community was struggling to figure out the basics of the novel coronavirus, reports of lengthy and life-altering Covid hangovers began to emerge.

Soon, there was a name for the condition: Long Covid.

Soon, there was a name for the condition: Long Covid.

Now, as the country transitions into the era of endemic Covid, a growing medical infrastructure is being developed to help guide patients through the often-severe lingering impacts of infection. At the heart of that effort is <a href="https://www.ucsfhealth.org/clinics/pulmonary-practice-at-parnassus">UCSF’s OPTIMAL Clinic</a>, which opened in May 2020 as one of the first clinics specifically dedicated to providing follow-up care for patients who have recovered from the acute symptoms of Covid.

Now, as the country transitions into the era of endemic Covid, a growing medical infrastructure is being developed to help guide patients through the often-severe lingering impacts of infection. At the heart of that effort is <a href="https://www.ucsfhealth.org/clinics/pulmonary-practice-at-parnassus">UCSF’s OPTIMAL Clinic</a>, which opened in May 2020 as one of the first clinics specifically dedicated to providing follow-up care for patients who have recovered from the acute symptoms of Covid.

The initiative started as an ad hoc effort, bringing in ICU doctors, a furloughed trauma psychologist, pharmacy students and volunteer specialists in what the clinic’s medical director and founder Dr. Lekshmi Santhosh called “a startup, bootstrapped operation.”&nbsp;

The initiative started as an ad hoc effort, bringing in ICU doctors, a furloughed trauma psychologist, pharmacy students and volunteer specialists in what the clinic’s medical director and founder Dr. Lekshmi Santhosh called “a startup, bootstrapped operation.”&nbsp;

From the outset, OPTIMAL sought to find effective treatments for those suffering from Long Covid. In the quest to root out its causes and develop therapies, the OPTIMAL team ended up recruiting a multidisciplinary corps of medical professionals. Today, two years into the pandemic, the clinic employs specialists in pulmonology, geriatrics, psychology, physical therapy and social work—all of them working to better understand the complex and intersectional factors that contribute to Long Covid and help patients find their way to recovery.

From the outset, OPTIMAL sought to find effective treatments for those suffering from Long Covid. In the quest to root out its causes and develop therapies, the OPTIMAL team ended up recruiting a multidisciplinary corps of medical professionals. Today, two years into the pandemic, the clinic employs specialists in pulmonology, geriatrics, psychology, physical therapy and social work—all of them working to better understand the complex and intersectional factors that contribute to Long Covid and help patients find their way to recovery.

Explainer: What SF voters need to know about 2022 ballot measures

SF’s budget in 4 charts: The pandemic effect on city finances and the prospects for recovery

Covid conundrum: Workers go ‘test hunting’ as shortage imperils SF’s pandemic recovery

On the long road to understanding long Covid, this UCSF initiative leads

San Francisco plans booster shots, ramps up testing amid Covid-19 case uptick

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Explainer: What SF voters need to know about 2022 ballot measures

SF’s budget in 4 charts: The pandemic effect on city finances and the prospects for recovery

Covid conundrum: Workers go ‘test hunting’ as shortage imperils SF’s pandemic recovery

On the long road to understanding long Covid, this UCSF initiative leads

San Francisco plans booster shots, ramps up testing amid Covid-19 case uptick