Annie Gaus

A longtime police sergeant has been placed on unpaid leave following an arrest at a Rite-Aid pharmacy, according to San Mateo and San Francisco law enforcement officials.&nbsp;

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A longtime police sergeant has been placed on unpaid leave following an arrest at a Rite-Aid pharmacy, according to San Mateo and San Francisco law enforcement officials.&nbsp;

Davin Cole, a 27-year veteran assigned to SFPD’s field operations unit, was arrested and booked in San Mateo county on Nov. 3 on suspicion of robbery, according to the San Mateo Police Department.

Davin Cole, a 27-year veteran assigned to SFPD’s field operations unit, was arrested and booked in San Mateo county on Nov. 3 on suspicion of robbery, according to the San Mateo Police Department.

The incident occurred at a Rite-Aid at 666 Concar Drive in San Mateo at approximately 6 PM, and Cole was later booked at Maguire Correctional Facility on suspicion of first-degree robbery and resisting arrest. He posted a $57,500 bail bond and was released on Thursday, according to San Mateo District Attorney Stephen Wagstaffe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The incident occurred at a Rite-Aid at 666 Concar Drive in San Mateo at approximately 6 PM, and Cole was later booked at Maguire Correctional Facility on suspicion of first-degree robbery and resisting arrest. He posted a $57,500 bail bond and was released on Thursday, according to San Mateo District Attorney Stephen Wagstaffe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A voicemail to Cole was not immediately returned.&nbsp;

A voicemail to Cole was not immediately returned.&nbsp;

Wagstaffe told Here/Say that charges have not yet been filed, but that Cole is expected to appear in court in the coming weeks. Wagstaffe speculated that the alleged robbery was motivated by substance dependency rather than financial gain.&nbsp;

Wagstaffe told Here/Say that charges have not yet been filed, but that Cole is expected to appear in court in the coming weeks. Wagstaffe speculated that the alleged robbery was motivated by substance dependency rather than financial gain.&nbsp;

“Very often with law enforcement it’s drug addiction,” Wagstaffe said.&nbsp;

“Very often with law enforcement it’s drug addiction,” Wagstaffe said.&nbsp;

Cole joined SFPD in 1994 and was promoted to sergeant in 2015, according to a Linkedin profile. He served as a supervisor in the department’s homeless outreach unit through HSOC (Healthy Streets Outreach Command), a cross-agency effort that seeks to address homeless encampments.&nbsp;

Cole joined SFPD in 1994 and was promoted to sergeant in 2015, according to a Linkedin profile. He served as a supervisor in the department’s homeless outreach unit through HSOC (Healthy Streets Outreach Command), a cross-agency effort that seeks to address homeless encampments.&nbsp;

In a statement, SFPD spokesperson Matt Dorsey said that Cole was placed on unpaid leave on Nov. 4 pending an internal investigation.

In a statement, SFPD spokesperson Matt Dorsey said that Cole was placed on unpaid leave on Nov. 4 pending an internal investigation.

SFPD officer arrested on suspicion of Rite-Aid robbery

Mike Ege

David Sjostedt

The city’s Tenderloin Emergency Intervention Plan dominated Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting. The board also dealt with a new homeless shelter and new funding for Muni. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/event/2022/bag020822_agenda">complete agenda</a>.)

The city’s Tenderloin Emergency Intervention Plan dominated Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting. The board also dealt with a new homeless shelter and new funding for Muni. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/event/2022/bag020822_agenda">complete agenda</a>.)

Progress Report on Tenderloin Emergency The hearing on the mayor’s Tenderloin plan took up almost three hours of Tuesday’s nearly seven-hour meeting, with dueling presentations by city departments and a coalition of nonprofit groups, led by the Coalition on Homelessness.&nbsp;

Progress Report on Tenderloin Emergency The hearing on the mayor’s Tenderloin plan took up almost three hours of Tuesday’s nearly seven-hour meeting, with dueling presentations by city departments and a coalition of nonprofit groups, led by the Coalition on Homelessness.&nbsp;

The city presentation outlined priorities in tackling drug dealing and crime, open-air drug use, lack of drop-in resources, street safety and quality of life issues, and overdose deaths.

The city presentation outlined priorities in tackling drug dealing and crime, open-air drug use, lack of drop-in resources, street safety and quality of life issues, and overdose deaths.

So far, the city reported 117 people were connected to shelters, 893 were connected to treatment, 922 tons of street waste was cleaned up and 5,975 grams of Fentanyl were seized. Engagements with clients have roughly doubled since the opening of the linkage center, while service referrals have roughly tripled.

So far, the city reported 117 people were connected to shelters, 893 were connected to treatment, 922 tons of street waste was cleaned up and 5,975 grams of Fentanyl were seized. Engagements with clients have roughly doubled since the opening of the linkage center, while service referrals have roughly tripled.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Health has filled just half of the 200 needed healthcare positions required for the project.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Health has filled just half of the 200 needed healthcare positions required for the project.&nbsp;

The nonprofit coalition’s presentation outlined engagement with the city to urge more impact- and equity-based goals and metrics into the plan.

The nonprofit coalition’s presentation outlined engagement with the city to urge more impact- and equity-based goals and metrics into the plan.

Board President Shamann Walton, along with Supervisor Hilary Ronen, asked whether additional resources given to the Tenderloin were impacting services to other parts of the city. Ronen also urged acquisition of further shelter space and the hiring of behavioral health workers.&nbsp;

Board President Shamann Walton, along with Supervisor Hilary Ronen, asked whether additional resources given to the Tenderloin were impacting services to other parts of the city. Ronen also urged acquisition of further shelter space and the hiring of behavioral health workers.&nbsp;

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman urged greater attention to the reaction of families and households in the neighborhood. “Success or failure [should be] determined on whether families and households feel safe,” said Mandelman.

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman urged greater attention to the reaction of families and households in the neighborhood. “Success or failure [should be] determined on whether families and households feel safe,” said Mandelman.

Supervisor Dean Preston used his questioning to amplify concerns over increased police activity and to urge postponing closure of shelter-In-place hotels.&nbsp;

Supervisor Dean Preston used his questioning to amplify concerns over increased police activity and to urge postponing closure of shelter-In-place hotels.&nbsp;

Both Supervisors Ahsha Safai and Catherine Stefani spent considerable time questioning staff about inclusion of abstinence-based programs in the services provided. It was eventually revealed that while the city made referrals to a number of abstinence based programs, such as Delancey Street, none were actually contracted by the city.&nbsp;

Both Supervisors Ahsha Safai and Catherine Stefani spent considerable time questioning staff about inclusion of abstinence-based programs in the services provided. It was eventually revealed that while the city made referrals to a number of abstinence based programs, such as Delancey Street, none were actually contracted by the city.&nbsp;

Supervisor Matt Haney, who represents the Tenderloin, was not present for the hearing because his sister was having a baby.

Supervisor Matt Haney, who represents the Tenderloin, was not present for the hearing because his sister was having a baby.

Urban Alchemy’s Nob Hill Shelter

Urban Alchemy’s Nob Hill Shelter

The board approved a three-year contract for service provider Urban Alchemy to run a former youth hostel at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/budget-committee-to-approve-controversial-lower-nob-hill-shelter/">711 Post St</a>. as an emergency homeless shelter.&nbsp;

The board approved a three-year contract for service provider Urban Alchemy to run a former youth hostel at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/budget-committee-to-approve-controversial-lower-nob-hill-shelter/">711 Post St</a>. as an emergency homeless shelter.&nbsp;

The proposed 250-unit facility, which will offer some guests private rooms, has sparked controversy in the Lower Nob Hill neighborhood. Residents and businesses are alarmed over the neighborhood’s transition from tourist hub to Tenderloin-adjacent “containment zone” for the city’s homeless.

The proposed 250-unit facility, which will offer some guests private rooms, has sparked controversy in the Lower Nob Hill neighborhood. Residents and businesses are alarmed over the neighborhood’s transition from tourist hub to Tenderloin-adjacent “containment zone” for the city’s homeless.

“This thing got off to a rough start,” said Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who represents the neighborhood, as he outlined an emerging agreement between residents and the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing on administration and maintenance of the site.

“This thing got off to a rough start,” said Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who represents the neighborhood, as he outlined an emerging agreement between residents and the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing on administration and maintenance of the site.

Peskin also said he would remain “a constant presence” in the process to finalize the agreement.&nbsp;

Peskin also said he would remain “a constant presence” in the process to finalize the agreement.&nbsp;

Rescuing Muni with $400 Million

Rescuing Muni with $400 Million

The $400 million general obligation bond measure for the SF Municipal Transportation Agency, slated for the June ballot, was continued after additional amendments by  Supervisor Connie Chan. The changes address policy goals to provide services to underserved communities and stipulate an annual hearing on the agency’s bond program.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The $400 million general obligation bond measure for the SF Municipal Transportation Agency, slated for the June ballot, was continued after additional amendments by Supervisor Connie Chan. The changes address policy goals to provide services to underserved communities and stipulate an annual hearing on the agency’s bond program.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most of the bond will speed repairs and upgrade aging infrastructure at Muni, including the subway control system. The remainder will go toward improving traffic signals and configuring streets to emphasize transit, walking and cycling, with lower <a href="https://sfstandard.com/uncategorized/street-safety-transit-agency-gets-a-start-on-cutting-car-speeds/">speed limits</a>.&nbsp;

Most of the bond will speed repairs and upgrade aging infrastructure at Muni, including the subway control system. The remainder will go toward improving traffic signals and configuring streets to emphasize transit, walking and cycling, with lower <a href="https://sfstandard.com/uncategorized/street-safety-transit-agency-gets-a-start-on-cutting-car-speeds/">speed limits</a>.&nbsp;

The continuance means that, if approved at the Board, the bond measure will have to be submitted to the Department of Elections as a “late item” by March 4, likely ruling out any further amendments to other measures being considered by the board.

The continuance means that, if approved at the Board, the bond measure will have to be submitted to the Department of Elections as a “late item” by March 4, likely ruling out any further amendments to other measures being considered by the board.

Meanwhile, Chan’s monster <a href="https://sfstandard.com/explainers/explainer-what-sf-voters-need-to-know-about-2022-ballot-measures/">charter amendment</a>, which would have radically realigned appointments to commissions and made other major changes to city government, was tabled by her own motion at Monday’s Rules Committee meeting.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Chan’s monster <a href="https://sfstandard.com/explainers/explainer-what-sf-voters-need-to-know-about-2022-ballot-measures/">charter amendment</a>, which would have radically realigned appointments to commissions and made other major changes to city government, was tabled by her own motion at Monday’s Rules Committee meeting.&nbsp;

Other Thorny Issues&nbsp;

Other Thorny Issues&nbsp;

The meeting began with remarks from Mayor London Breed relating “hard news” from her recent trip to Chicago and other cities with SFTravel.&nbsp;

The meeting began with remarks from Mayor London Breed relating “hard news” from her recent trip to Chicago and other cities with SFTravel.&nbsp;

“Companies love San Francisco but have serious concerns,” Breed said, noting the city’s rising housing prices and property crime rate, as well as quality of life issues.

“Companies love San Francisco but have serious concerns,” Breed said, noting the city’s rising housing prices and property crime rate, as well as quality of life issues.

She argued this could now overtake the ability to take the city’s charms for granted in a business environment now shaped by Covid and remote work options.&nbsp;

She argued this could now overtake the ability to take the city’s charms for granted in a business environment now shaped by Covid and remote work options.&nbsp;

Additionally, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/220207-bos-proxy-war/">two issues</a> related to the recall of District Attorney Chesa Boudin had mixed results this session: The reappointment confirmation of Commissioner Andrea Shorter was continued one week; and the $700,000 settlement in the case of the alleged police beating of Dacari Spiers was finally approved by a vote of 8-2, with supervisors Mandelman and Stefani dissenting.

Additionally, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/220207-bos-proxy-war/">two issues</a> related to the recall of District Attorney Chesa Boudin had mixed results this session: The reappointment confirmation of Commissioner Andrea Shorter was continued one week; and the $700,000 settlement in the case of the alleged police beating of Dacari Spiers was finally approved by a vote of 8-2, with supervisors Mandelman and Stefani dissenting.

SF supervisors approve contract for controversial Lower Nob Hill homeless shelter

A piece of legislation stemming from Mayor London Breed’s crackdown on crime in the Tenderloin is up for consideration at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting, as is a nearly $55 million state grant for a permanent supportive housing facility in the SoMa. Also, supervisors are expected to vote on whether to allow San Francisco residents free access to the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers. (As always, if you’re looking for the full kit and caboodle, check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/bag030822_agenda.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">full agenda</a>.)

A piece of legislation stemming from Mayor London Breed’s crackdown on crime in the Tenderloin is up for consideration at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting, as is a nearly $55 million state grant for a permanent supportive housing facility in the SoMa. Also, supervisors are expected to vote on whether to allow San Francisco residents free access to the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers. (As always, if you’re looking for the full kit and caboodle, check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/bag030822_agenda.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">full agenda</a>.)

Street Vendor Regulation

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Street Vendor Regulation</h2>

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<h2>Street Vendor Regulation</h2>

During a string of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/mayor-announces-crackdown-on-tenderloin-crime-in-fiery-press-conference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press conferences</a> in December, Mayor Breed announced a public safety emergency in the Tenderloin. Breed’s plan aimed to dismantle fencing operations—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/how-san-francisco-black-market-thrives-off-retail-theft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the act of selling stolen goods in public spaces</a>. However, Supervisor Hillary Ronen pushed back on the legislation in late February, arguing for educational outreach, increased permit accessibility and stipulations that avoid penalizing the sale of used goods.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

During a string of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/mayor-announces-crackdown-on-tenderloin-crime-in-fiery-press-conference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press conferences</a> in December, Mayor Breed announced a public safety emergency in the Tenderloin. Breed’s plan aimed to dismantle fencing operations—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/how-san-francisco-black-market-thrives-off-retail-theft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the act of selling stolen goods in public spaces</a>. However, Supervisor Hillary Ronen pushed back on the legislation in late February, arguing for educational outreach, increased permit accessibility and stipulations that avoid penalizing the sale of used goods.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The newly amended legislation, if passed by the full board Tuesday, would shift the responsibilities of enforcing the law from police to the Department of Public Works. It would also waive fees for the first year a vendor holds a permit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The newly amended legislation, if passed by the full board Tuesday, would shift the responsibilities of enforcing the law from police to the Department of Public Works. It would also waive fees for the first year a vendor holds a permit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=10559784&amp;GUID=D5DA7E65-B6B7-4764-9057-C391DC1E8059" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent report</a> by the board’s Budget &amp; Legislative Analyst estimated the&nbsp; Department of Public Works would need 13.8 new full-time employees—at an annual cost of more than $2.15 million in salaries and benefits—to carry out enforcement. While the report states that “sidewalk vending is unregulated in most areas of the city,” many vendors have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/mission-street-vendors-fret-about-influx/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complained of paying for SFPD permits that were never enforced.</a> The new legislation proposes a $250 fine for first-time violations, $500 for a second violation and $1,000 for every subsequent violation within a year of someone selling goods without a permit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=10559784&amp;GUID=D5DA7E65-B6B7-4764-9057-C391DC1E8059" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent report</a> by the board’s Budget &amp; Legislative Analyst estimated the&nbsp; Department of Public Works would need 13.8 new full-time employees—at an annual cost of more than $2.15 million in salaries and benefits—to carry out enforcement. While the report states that “sidewalk vending is unregulated in most areas of the city,” many vendors have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/mission-street-vendors-fret-about-influx/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complained of paying for SFPD permits that were never enforced.</a> The new legislation proposes a $250 fine for first-time violations, $500 for a second violation and $1,000 for every subsequent violation within a year of someone selling goods without a permit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Panoramic Hotel Acquisition&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Panoramic Hotel Acquisition&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Panoramic Hotel Acquisition&nbsp;</h2>

Supervisors are set to vote on whether to acquire the Panoramic Hotel at 1321 Mission St. in order to provide permanent housing to homeless residents. The acquisition <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/south-of-market-residents-push-back-against-homeless-housing-plan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faced community pushback in September</a>, as residents of the surrounding South of Market neighborhood complained about a potential uptick in crime and a lack of rehabilitation services. If approved by the full board, the property would open by March 21 with the potential of housing up to 200 people. The city is tapping into $54.8 million worth of state funds from Project Homekey to complete the hotel’s purchase.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supervisors are set to vote on whether to acquire the Panoramic Hotel at 1321 Mission St. in order to provide permanent housing to homeless residents. The acquisition <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/south-of-market-residents-push-back-against-homeless-housing-plan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faced community pushback in September</a>, as residents of the surrounding South of Market neighborhood complained about a potential uptick in crime and a lack of rehabilitation services. If approved by the full board, the property would open by March 21 with the potential of housing up to 200 people. The city is tapping into $54.8 million worth of state funds from Project Homekey to complete the hotel’s purchase.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-free-access-to-flowers">Free Access to Flowers</h2>

<h2 id="h-free-access-to-flowers">Free Access to Flowers</h2>

Supervisors will discuss whether to eliminate admission costs for San Francisco residents and non-resident veterans who visit Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers. The Budget &amp; Legislative Analyst predicts that the waivers will cause a $571,385 revenue loss but could be nullified by a $1 increase in prices for non-residents. Admission prices for the park attractions go toward the upkeep and maintenance of the gardens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supervisors will discuss whether to eliminate admission costs for San Francisco residents and non-resident veterans who visit Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers. The Budget &amp; Legislative Analyst predicts that the waivers will cause a $571,385 revenue loss but could be nullified by a $1 increase in prices for non-residents. Admission prices for the park attractions go toward the upkeep and maintenance of the gardens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supes in 2 mins: Street vending, housing the homeless, perks for SF residents at Golden Gate Park

San Francisco is broadening its vaccination mandate for city employees to include contractors who work with the city.&nbsp;

San Francisco is broadening its vaccination mandate for city employees to include contractors who work with the city.&nbsp;

The mandate goes into effect on Dec. 31, and includes contractors and nonprofit workers who work at city facilities or alongside city workers, the Mayor’s Office said on Friday. Contractors may be granted exemptions for qualifying religious or medical exemptions, and the City Administrator is tasked with implementing the mandate.

The mandate goes into effect on Dec. 31, and includes contractors and nonprofit workers who work at city facilities or alongside city workers, the Mayor’s Office said on Friday. Contractors may be granted exemptions for qualifying religious or medical exemptions, and the City Administrator is tasked with implementing the mandate.

The new mandate marks a significant expansion of San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-is-looking-at-ways-to-mandate-vaccines-for-non-city-employees-says-mayor-breed/">vaccine requirement for city workers</a>, which was the first of its kind in the country when it was announced in June. San Francisco maintains contracts with hundreds of companies, ranging from construction and engineering firms to nonprofit social service providers.&nbsp;

The new mandate marks a significant expansion of San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-is-looking-at-ways-to-mandate-vaccines-for-non-city-employees-says-mayor-breed/">vaccine requirement for city workers</a>, which was the first of its kind in the country when it was announced in June. San Francisco maintains contracts with hundreds of companies, ranging from construction and engineering firms to nonprofit social service providers.&nbsp;

According to the Mayor’s Office, the mandate doesn’t necessarily apply to all contractors: Only workers who have regular, in-person contact with city employees are subject to the mandate. The mandate also applies to city commissioners.

According to the Mayor’s Office, the mandate doesn’t necessarily apply to all contractors: Only workers who have regular, in-person contact with city employees are subject to the mandate. The mandate also applies to city commissioners.

The city is currently sorting out specific enforcement details, but firms contracting with the city will have to attest that eligible employees are fully vaccinated by the deadline. 

The city is currently sorting out specific enforcement details, but firms contracting with the city will have to attest that eligible employees are fully vaccinated by the deadline.

“City contractors are an important part of the broader workforce that delivers needed services to San Francisco, so it’s important for contractors to also be vaccinated and contribute to lowering the spread of COVID-19 on City facilities and among staff,” said Director of Health, Dr. Grant Colfax, in a statement.&nbsp;

“City contractors are an important part of the broader workforce that delivers needed services to San Francisco, so it’s important for contractors to also be vaccinated and contribute to lowering the spread of COVID-19 on City facilities and among staff,” said Director of Health, Dr. Grant Colfax, in a statement.&nbsp;

According to the Department of Human Resources, 94% of city workers were vaccinated as of Wednesday. Employees who do not comply with the vaccine mandate by Nov. 1, the last deadline for submitting proof of full vaccination, are subject to termination. 

According to the Department of Human Resources, 94% of city workers were vaccinated as of Wednesday. Employees who do not comply with the vaccine mandate by Nov. 1, the last deadline for submitting proof of full vaccination, are subject to termination.

Some city departments with many frontline workers, such as SFMTA and the police department, are bracing for terminations of potentially hundreds of workers come November.&nbsp;

Some city departments with many frontline workers, such as SFMTA and the police department, are bracing for terminations of potentially hundreds of workers come November.&nbsp;

As of last week, 313 police employees, including 276 sworn officers, were unvaccinated according to a department-wide email viewed by Here/Say Media. Of those employees, 228 requested religious exemptions and a large majority were denied.&nbsp;

As of last week, 313 police employees, including 276 sworn officers, were unvaccinated according to a department-wide email viewed by Here/Say Media. Of those employees, 228 requested religious exemptions and a large majority were denied.&nbsp;

This week,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/sfmta-warns-of-chaotic-service-disruptions-due-to-unvaccinated-workers/"> SFMTA warned</a> that more than 300 transit operators could be subject to termination on Nov. 1, triggering “unpredictable” disruptions beginning Halloween weekend and a delay of its service restoration plans.

This week,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/sfmta-warns-of-chaotic-service-disruptions-due-to-unvaccinated-workers/"> SFMTA warned</a> that more than 300 transit operators could be subject to termination on Nov. 1, triggering “unpredictable” disruptions beginning Halloween weekend and a delay of its service restoration plans.

San Francisco expands vaccine mandate to include city contractors

In the wake of a brazen retail crime spree in Union Square, city supervisors voted to approve a legislation Tuesday that will effectively allow off-duty sheriffs deputies to work security for retail companies in San Francisco. The decision came despite some supervisors raising concerns that the proposal could run afoul of state law.

In the wake of a brazen retail crime spree in Union Square, city supervisors voted to approve a legislation Tuesday that will effectively allow off-duty sheriffs deputies to work security for retail companies in San Francisco. The decision came despite some supervisors raising concerns that the proposal could run afoul of state law.

Supervisor Ahsha Safai presented the measure as a “spoke in the wheel of justice” to deter retail crime. The resolution mirrors an existing city code that only applied to off–duty SFPD officers, and the two agencies have 60 days to present city officials with their plan to divvy up the work.&nbsp;

Supervisor Ahsha Safai presented the measure as a “spoke in the wheel of justice” to deter retail crime. The resolution mirrors an existing city code that only applied to off–duty SFPD officers, and the two agencies have 60 days to present city officials with their plan to divvy up the work.&nbsp;

Supervisor Dean Preston, who was joined by two colleagues in opposing the measure, expressed concern that the legislation could violate state law, which only allows private entities to hire individuals to provide security for events or on other special occasions. He also expressed concerns the city may already be violating state law by allowing retailers to hire off-duty police officers through the 10B program.

Supervisor Dean Preston, who was joined by two colleagues in opposing the measure, expressed concern that the legislation could violate state law, which only allows private entities to hire individuals to provide security for events or on other special occasions. He also expressed concerns the city may already be violating state law by allowing retailers to hire off-duty police officers through the 10B program.

“We have three decades of attorney general opinions and state law saying you can’t do this,” Preston said. “I find it perhaps more alarming if the city and county of San Francisco, through the 10B program, has been violating that state law.”&nbsp;

“We have three decades of attorney general opinions and state law saying you can’t do this,” Preston said. “I find it perhaps more alarming if the city and county of San Francisco, through the 10B program, has been violating that state law.”&nbsp;

City Code 10B allows off–duty police officers to work as private security for any company or individual. The SF police officer’s union has in the past opposed allowing sheriff’s deputies to do the same, but San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said Tuesday that the two agencies came together on this issue because SFPD was “unable to meet the demand” of businesses seeking security.&nbsp;

City Code 10B allows off–duty police officers to work as private security for any company or individual. The SF police officer’s union has in the past opposed allowing sheriff’s deputies to do the same, but San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said Tuesday that the two agencies came together on this issue because SFPD was “unable to meet the demand” of businesses seeking security.&nbsp;

In November, Professor Lara Bazelon at the USF school of law <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=9966719&amp;GUID=3E34774F-32A8-4D32-A3B3-B67F9F14758D">questioned</a> the legality of Safai’s measure, citing a 1985 ruling by the Attorney General.&nbsp;

In November, Professor Lara Bazelon at the USF school of law <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=9966719&amp;GUID=3E34774F-32A8-4D32-A3B3-B67F9F14758D">questioned</a> the legality of Safai’s measure, citing a 1985 ruling by the Attorney General.&nbsp;

“This precedent and the plain language of the statute calls the legality of the proposed ordinance into doubt,” Bazelon said in the letter. “In my opinion, the ordinance exceeds the scope of what is permissible under the law.”

“This precedent and the plain language of the statute calls the legality of the proposed ordinance into doubt,” Bazelon said in the letter. “In my opinion, the ordinance exceeds the scope of what is permissible under the law.”

Deputy city attorney Anne Pearson said the wording of the ordinance complied with state law.

Deputy city attorney Anne Pearson said the wording of the ordinance complied with state law.

Supervisor Hillary Ronen, who ultimately voted in favor of the measure, warned of its potential effect on a depleted sheriff’s force that is struggling to adequately staff courts and jails.&nbsp;

Supervisor Hillary Ronen, who ultimately voted in favor of the measure, warned of its potential effect on a depleted sheriff’s force that is struggling to adequately staff courts and jails.&nbsp;

“There are about 400 criminal cases that have surpassed the constitutional right to a speedy trial in the courts of San Francisco,” Ronen said. “I worry that there won’t be deputies available because of this program.”

“There are about 400 criminal cases that have surpassed the constitutional right to a speedy trial in the courts of San Francisco,” Ronen said. “I worry that there won’t be deputies available because of this program.”

Sherrif Deputy Paul Miyamoto, who admitted that the department is understaffed, said the new amendment won’t affect their presence in other parts of the city since it will only apply to off-duty officers.&nbsp;

Sherrif Deputy Paul Miyamoto, who admitted that the department is understaffed, said the new amendment won’t affect their presence in other parts of the city since it will only apply to off-duty officers.&nbsp;

Safai said the new law will empower retailers to protect themselves from organized retail theft organizations, such as the group that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/merchants-remain-uneasy-but-shoppers-unfazed-following-union-square-thefts/">burglarized Union Square </a>on Nov. 19.

Safai said the new law will empower retailers to protect themselves from organized retail theft organizations, such as the group that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/merchants-remain-uneasy-but-shoppers-unfazed-following-union-square-thefts/">burglarized Union Square </a>on Nov. 19.

“When we heard that San Francisco was one of the epicenters for organized retail crime, we knew we had to act, and we knew we had to act swiftly,” Safai said.&nbsp;

“When we heard that San Francisco was one of the epicenters for organized retail crime, we knew we had to act, and we knew we had to act swiftly,” Safai said.&nbsp;

Supervisors may be skirting law with latest swipe at retail crime

Will California's AI safety legislation help or hurt San Francisco?

A California artificial intelligence safety bill vilified by much of the tech industry is now on Governor Newsom's desk pending signature. Our business editor Kevin Truong and tech reporter Priya Anand sit down with the bill's author, State Senator Scott Wiener, to ask: Will this bill protect the future of the industry with industry-first regulation or could it kill what many see as San Francisco's next boom industry?

Will California’s AI safety legislation help or hurt San Francisco?

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Mayoral Debate Watch Party

Test 09/04

A composite image featuring homelessness reporter David Sjostedt alongside a view of San Francisco City Hall and a person sitting on the sidewalk in front of a graffiti-covered wall

San Francisco's Homeless Crackdown: What's the Plan?

San Francisco began aggressively clearing homeless encampments throughout the city earlier this month. The action follows a recent Supreme Court ruling, which granted California new powers to remove people and property from streets. The Standard’s homelessness reporter David Sjostedt will discuss the city’s approach and take your questions at this live Q&A.

San Francisco’s Homeless Crackdown: What’s the Plan?

On Tuesday, Aug. 6th at 12pm, The Standard's Business team will chat about how the city is recovering from the real estate crash and what's on the other side of the industry's grand reset. Joining the discussion on Zoom—and taking your questions—will be business editor Kevin Truong, reporter Kevin V. Nguyen, and The Standard's CEO, Griffin Gaffney.

Beyond the Crash: Where San Francisco’s Real Estate Market Goes From Here

Live Q&A with Willie Brown

Vice President Kamala Harris and Mayor Willie Brown

Willie Brown on What's Next for Democrats

On Thursday morning we'll be sitting down with influential Democratic Party leader and former Mayor Willie Brown to chat about what a Kamala Harris presidency might look like and what will happen leading up to the Democratic National Convention. Have questions of your own for Mayor Brown? Join The Standard's politics editor, Annie Gaus, and Carla Marinucci, formerly of Politico and The San Francisco Chronicle, for this live Q&A on Zoom.

Willie Brown on What’s Next for Democrats

Join The Standard to watch the mayoral debate live

Black-and-white portraits of the four men who will be participating in the event

Policing in SF: Where do we go after the March 5 election?

What, if anything, will change in wake of the election? Will we see further attempts to take such measures directly to voters? This panel will be moderated by San Francisco Standard reporter Josh Koehn.

Policing in San Francisco: Where do we go after the March 5 election?

A conversation featuring District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey and the San Francisco Standard's Editor-in-Chief Julie Makinen and Senior Reporter Michael Barba

Can More Cops Keep SF Safe?

Would more police officers help San Francisco solve its problems? If so, how should the city pay for them? What should they focus on, if hired? Join District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey and the San Francisco Standard's Editor-in-Chief Julie Makinen and Senior Reporter Michael Barba for a lively conversation about this hotly debated topic.

APEC puts a global spotlight on San Francisco

A live event featuring The Standard reporters Han Li, Josh Koehn, and Jonah Owen Lamb and editor-in-chief Julie Makinen

Is the City Ready?

In mid-November, San Francisco will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, bringing together President Joe Biden with the leaders of up to 20 other global economies. What are the potential economic upsides? How will local residents be affected, and how can they get involved? And how much is this all going to cost? Join The Standard for a lively discussion and Q&A.

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Supervisors may be skirting law with latest swipe at retail crime