Meaghan Mitchell

When Danielle Banks and her husband Richard Bougere face a significant barrier, they find a way to convert it into an opportunity. Case in point: A year and a half ago, the couple took a group of interns to shop at Forever 21 in downtown San Francisco, and were <a href="https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2019/07/08/san-francisco-youth-group-leaders-racially-profiled-forever-21-sfpd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">racially profiled</a> after the store manager called the police and accused the group of shoplifting.

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When Danielle Banks and her husband Richard Bougere face a significant barrier, they find a way to convert it into an opportunity. Case in point: A year and a half ago, the couple took a group of interns to shop at Forever 21 in downtown San Francisco, and were <a href="https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2019/07/08/san-francisco-youth-group-leaders-racially-profiled-forever-21-sfpd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">racially profiled</a> after the store manager called the police and accused the group of shoplifting.

Banks and Bougere, both artists and community leaders, took to social media to decry the incident and demand an apology from Forever 21. Their video went viral, giving them national recognition.&nbsp;

Banks and Bougere, both artists and community leaders, took to social media to decry the incident and demand an apology from Forever 21. Their video went viral, giving them national recognition.&nbsp;

&#8220;For me, it was very bittersweet,&#8221; said Banks. &#8220;The last thing I want to be recognized for is anything bad that occurred to us rather than the work we have done in our community.&#8221;

"For me, it was very bittersweet," said Banks. "The last thing I want to be recognized for is anything bad that occurred to us rather than the work we have done in our community."

&#8220;For me, it was very bittersweet,&#8221; said Banks. &#8220;The last thing I want to be recognized for is anything bad that occurred to us rather than the work we have done in our community.&#8221;

But there’s a silver lining to every cloud: The couple’s latest venture brings local artisans and clothing makers into focus, helping them to grow their brands and gain more visibility without the financial burden of maintaining a full-time brick and mortar. In recent months, Banks and Bougere have partnered with Sacramento-based entrepreneurs Delmar and Ayesha White to enliven malls with local wares, starting with a shop in San Francisco&#8217;s Stonestown Galleria Mall called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Pop-Up-Shop-SF-100616642165752" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Pop Up Shop SF</a>.&nbsp;

But there’s a silver lining to every cloud: The couple’s latest venture brings local artisans and clothing makers into focus, helping them to grow their brands and gain more visibility without the financial burden of maintaining a full-time brick and mortar. In recent months, Banks and Bougere have partnered with Sacramento-based entrepreneurs Delmar and Ayesha White to enliven malls with local wares, starting with a shop in San Francisco's Stonestown Galleria Mall called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Pop-Up-Shop-SF-100616642165752" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Pop Up Shop SF</a>.&nbsp;

But there’s a silver lining to every cloud: The couple’s latest venture brings local artisans and clothing makers into focus, helping them to grow their brands and gain more visibility without the financial burden of maintaining a full-time brick and mortar. In recent months, Banks and Bougere have partnered with Sacramento-based entrepreneurs Delmar and Ayesha White to enliven malls with local wares, starting with a shop in San Francisco&#8217;s Stonestown Galleria Mall called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/The-Pop-Up-Shop-SF-100616642165752" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Pop Up Shop SF</a>.&nbsp;

&#8220;We explored this concept with Delmar and Ayesha before the Forever 21 incident, but the timing turned out to be perfect,&#8221; said Bougere. &#8220;The Whites <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepopupshopatarden/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">launched the concept</a> in Sacramento at the Arden Mall, and it really took off, so we worked with them to make it happen in the city.&#8221;

"We explored this concept with Delmar and Ayesha before the Forever 21 incident, but the timing turned out to be perfect," said Bougere. "The Whites <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepopupshopatarden/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">launched the concept</a> in Sacramento at the Arden Mall, and it really took off, so we worked with them to make it happen in the city."

&#8220;We explored this concept with Delmar and Ayesha before the Forever 21 incident, but the timing turned out to be perfect,&#8221; said Bougere. &#8220;The Whites <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepopupshopatarden/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">launched the concept</a> in Sacramento at the Arden Mall, and it really took off, so we worked with them to make it happen in the city.&#8221;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/DJI_0455-2500x1406.jpg" alt=""/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An intern from Project Level shows us one of the clothing brands in the Pop-Up Shop SF | Photo by Meaghan Mitchell</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/DJI_0455-2500x1406.jpg" alt=""/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An intern from Project Level shows us one of the clothing brands in the Pop-Up Shop SF | Photo by Meaghan Mitchell</figcaption></figure>

The approximately 2,200-square-foot shop is centrally located in the mall, neighboring major brands like Victoria&#8217;s Secret.&nbsp;

The approximately 2,200-square-foot shop is centrally located in the mall, neighboring major brands like Victoria's Secret.&nbsp;

The approximately 2,200-square-foot shop is centrally located in the mall, neighboring major brands like Victoria&#8217;s Secret.&nbsp;

&#8220;We are right in the thick of it,&#8221; Banks added. &#8220;People stop in daily, and our brands add to the mall&#8217;s diversity.&#8221;

"We are right in the thick of it," Banks added. "People stop in daily, and our brands add to the mall's diversity."

&#8220;We are right in the thick of it,&#8221; Banks added. &#8220;People stop in daily, and our brands add to the mall&#8217;s diversity.&#8221;

Banks and Bougere both grew up in San Francisco and converted their passion for the arts into successful careers in music and business development. Banks is CEO of her talent agency <a href="https://www.instagram.com/1015mgmt/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1015 Management</a>, where she manages musicians, models, and actors. Bougere is a well-known local hip-hop artist known as &#8220;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/big.rich/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Rich</a>.&#8221;&nbsp;

Banks and Bougere both grew up in San Francisco and converted their passion for the arts into successful careers in music and business development. Banks is CEO of her talent agency <a href="https://www.instagram.com/1015mgmt/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1015 Management</a>, where she manages musicians, models, and actors. Bougere is a well-known local hip-hop artist known as "<a href="https://www.instagram.com/big.rich/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Rich</a>."&nbsp;

Banks and Bougere both grew up in San Francisco and converted their passion for the arts into successful careers in music and business development. Banks is CEO of her talent agency <a href="https://www.instagram.com/1015mgmt/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1015 Management</a>, where she manages musicians, models, and actors. Bougere is a well-known local hip-hop artist known as &#8220;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/big.rich/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Rich</a>.&#8221;&nbsp;

In 2012, the power couple decided to combine their efforts and &#8220;pay it forward&#8221; by establishing <a href="https://www.projectlevel.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Project Level</a>, a San Francisco-based nonprofit that uses performance art, fashion and business to empower underprivileged youth through internships and other opportunities. Since then, they have mentored hundreds of Bay Area youth and even launched entertainment careers for some.&nbsp;

In 2012, the power couple decided to combine their efforts and "pay it forward" by establishing <a href="https://www.projectlevel.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Project Level</a>, a San Francisco-based nonprofit that uses performance art, fashion and business to empower underprivileged youth through internships and other opportunities. Since then, they have mentored hundreds of Bay Area youth and even launched entertainment careers for some.&nbsp;

In 2012, the power couple decided to combine their efforts and &#8220;pay it forward&#8221; by establishing <a href="https://www.projectlevel.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Project Level</a>, a San Francisco-based nonprofit that uses performance art, fashion and business to empower underprivileged youth through internships and other opportunities. Since then, they have mentored hundreds of Bay Area youth and even launched entertainment careers for some.&nbsp;

While the Forever 21 event was distressing for Banks, Bougere and their interns, it resulted in a public apology from the business and a request to work on a brand concept and clothing collection <a href="https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2020/06/20/racial-profiling-incident-at-forever-21-leads-to-remarkable-partnership-for-non-profit-group/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">that includes Project Level youth</a>.&nbsp;

While the Forever 21 event was distressing for Banks, Bougere and their interns, it resulted in a public apology from the business and a request to work on a brand concept and clothing collection <a href="https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2020/06/20/racial-profiling-incident-at-forever-21-leads-to-remarkable-partnership-for-non-profit-group/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">that includes Project Level youth</a>.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Ll5Lyk4s-1bxbCe3UNQvdmvsRlkdKugERshgpPKNDrrvWpCkTB-FJKzEEEwnScJd55q2LgGwLVgKjheZkM4jZa-JjsT3Vnk-xfEWHzfi8LFDh0KHVAvUuNneqgR6oXIPgtax_F0Fs0.jpg?w=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-184511"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Project Level and youth meet with Forever 21 Execs | Courtesy of Project Level</figcaption></figure>

&#8220;I am happy with the outcome,&#8221; Banks said. &#8220;Because we&#8217;ve expanded possibilities for our <a href="https://www.forever21.com/us/2000419704012.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kids</a>, and Forever 21 has played a significant role. Our youth are interning there, and we&#8217;re hard at work on our next collection, which will be released next year.&#8221;

"I am happy with the outcome," Banks said. "Because we've expanded possibilities for our <a href="https://www.forever21.com/us/2000419704012.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kids</a>, and Forever 21 has played a significant role. Our youth are interning there, and we're hard at work on our next collection, which will be released next year."

&#8220;I am happy with the outcome,&#8221; Banks said. &#8220;Because we&#8217;ve expanded possibilities for our <a href="https://www.forever21.com/us/2000419704012.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kids</a>, and Forever 21 has played a significant role. Our youth are interning there, and we&#8217;re hard at work on our next collection, which will be released next year.&#8221;

In the meantime, Project Level is nurturing emerging entrepreneurs through the Pop Up Shop SF and giving Project Level youth the opportunity to gain fashion work experience as managers and retail associates in the shop.&nbsp;

In the meantime, Project Level is nurturing emerging entrepreneurs through the Pop Up Shop SF and giving Project Level youth the opportunity to gain fashion work experience as managers and retail associates in the shop.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mPgZe4nHJ-FCVi65L7st8kEDMaJJSYwuriKJ6VQxQzu2WRZcEQDVETzqn-0M35HQxEgW9VWzFOdFXlnYdruS_mRDbWU99g28jRs28rvweJjXawui69kHtGBYfupWGh7sTUK-NmVt=s0" alt=""/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vendor Dayanara Thompson of IWoke Wellness | Photo by Meaghan Mitchell</figcaption></figure>

Project Level targets high-traffic malls and covers the costs associated with running the shop, enabling entrepreneurs to test their products at the mall.&nbsp;

Project Level targets high-traffic malls and covers the costs associated with running the shop, enabling entrepreneurs to test their products at the mall.&nbsp;

&#8220;It starts with an inquiry, and then we go through an application process,&#8221; said Banks. &#8220;We do the work to make sure we understand their brand and curate the space so that there are no conflicts with similar brands.&#8221;

"It starts with an inquiry, and then we go through an application process," said Banks. "We do the work to make sure we understand their brand and curate the space so that there are no conflicts with similar brands."

&#8220;It starts with an inquiry, and then we go through an application process,&#8221; said Banks. &#8220;We do the work to make sure we understand their brand and curate the space so that there are no conflicts with similar brands.&#8221;

At the Pop Up Shop SF, you&#8217;ll find clothing items by Bay Area designers, most of whom are from San Francisco. The clothing ranges from streetwear to activewear and clubwear. &#8220;We also carry accessories like jewelry and household items like candles, made from our vendors,&#8221; Banks added.&nbsp;

At the Pop Up Shop SF, you'll find clothing items by Bay Area designers, most of whom are from San Francisco. The clothing ranges from streetwear to activewear and clubwear. "We also carry accessories like jewelry and household items like candles, made from our vendors," Banks added.&nbsp;

At the Pop Up Shop SF, you&#8217;ll find clothing items by Bay Area designers, most of whom are from San Francisco. The clothing ranges from streetwear to activewear and clubwear. &#8220;We also carry accessories like jewelry and household items like candles, made from our vendors,&#8221; Banks added.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/0gALBNnAckZgI6WhneKss0ER7vR9XZLJYCSyeXvc7bgYt9Rq6dvNugxifFo9I86qcqaPPQQRMCvczJQaXrrRqL-842NPLtt1chJPMKRUwIdh4GmuQU0PIsp8ysI9HkrVhPNBLrIQ=s0" alt=""/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A look inside the Pop Up Shop | Photo by Meaghan Mitchell</figcaption></figure>

The Pop Up Shop SF operates on consignment, and incoming vendors start with a trial of 60 days but have the option to stay longer if their product sells. Vendors are also required to volunteer in the shop during their trial period at a minimum of four hours per month.&nbsp;

The Pop Up Shop SF operates on consignment, and incoming vendors start with a trial of 60 days but have the option to stay longer if their product sells. Vendors are also required to volunteer in the shop during their trial period at a minimum of four hours per month.&nbsp;

There are plans to expand the Pop Up Shop SF to other locations, starting with the Westfield Shopping Center in downtown San Francisco. In October, Project Level will launch two additional shops, one that will focus on men&#8217;s clothing and the other on women&#8217;s. Banks and Bougere are looking to expand from there.&nbsp;

There are plans to expand the Pop Up Shop SF to other locations, starting with the Westfield Shopping Center in downtown San Francisco. In October, Project Level will launch two additional shops, one that will focus on men's clothing and the other on women's. Banks and Bougere are looking to expand from there.&nbsp;

There are plans to expand the Pop Up Shop SF to other locations, starting with the Westfield Shopping Center in downtown San Francisco. In October, Project Level will launch two additional shops, one that will focus on men&#8217;s clothing and the other on women&#8217;s. Banks and Bougere are looking to expand from there.&nbsp;

&#8220;We want to branch out to Fillmore and Haight Streets eventually, but being in a prime location is paying off because we are reaching so many people but are able to keep the cost of advertisement low,” said Banks.

"We want to branch out to Fillmore and Haight Streets eventually, but being in a prime location is paying off because we are reaching so many people but are able to keep the cost of advertisement low,” said Banks.

&#8220;We want to branch out to Fillmore and Haight Streets eventually, but being in a prime location is paying off because we are reaching so many people but are able to keep the cost of advertisement low,” said Banks.

The Pop Up Shop SF is also an opportunity to activate vacant storefronts during a time where San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/s-f-downtown-is-still-dead-but-job-listings-venture-capital-point-to-a-possible-rebound/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">economy has been hammered</a> by the pandemic.

The Pop Up Shop SF is also an opportunity to activate vacant storefronts during a time where San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/s-f-downtown-is-still-dead-but-job-listings-venture-capital-point-to-a-possible-rebound/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">economy has been hammered</a> by the pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on our city’s creative outlets and local artists,” Mayor Breed told Here/Say.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on our city’s creative outlets and local artists,” Mayor Breed told Here/Say.

“As we look to our economic recovery, supporting local organizations is key to uplifting our neighborhoods. Project Level and the Pop Up Shop SF provide just that—an opportunity for people in our community to showcase their incredible work and help drive our city forward.&#8221;

“As we look to our economic recovery, supporting local organizations is key to uplifting our neighborhoods. Project Level and the Pop Up Shop SF provide just that—an opportunity for people in our community to showcase their incredible work and help drive our city forward."

“As we look to our economic recovery, supporting local organizations is key to uplifting our neighborhoods. Project Level and the Pop Up Shop SF provide just that—an opportunity for people in our community to showcase their incredible work and help drive our city forward.&#8221;

Making more out of the mall experience

Annie Gaus

With movie productions stirring back to life, San Francisco wants a piece of the action.&nbsp;

With movie productions stirring back to life, San Francisco wants a piece of the action.&nbsp;

A handful of movies and television shows are set to film in the city over the next few months, and the San Francisco Film Commission is hoping to lure more productions with a combination of incentives and, potentially, a dedicated space for film crews to construct large sets.&nbsp;

A handful of movies and television shows are set to film in the city over the next few months, and the San Francisco Film Commission is hoping to lure more productions with a combination of incentives and, potentially, a dedicated space for film crews to construct large sets.&nbsp;

Over the past month, there were 33 shoots and a total of 51 shoot days spanning documentaries and television, according to Susannah Robbins, executive director of the San Francisco Film Commission. The city generated $14,700 in permit fees and saw an uptick both in shoots and revenue compared to last month. 

Over the past month, there were 33 shoots and a total of 51 shoot days spanning documentaries and television, according to Susannah Robbins, executive director of the San Francisco Film Commission. The city generated $14,700 in permit fees and saw an uptick both in shoots and revenue compared to last month.

“We’ve come a long way since the beginning of the pandemic,” said Robbins at a meeting on Monday. “We’re still down a little bit in shoots and shoot days [compared to 2019], but we were up 28% in permit fees&#8230;we’re gaining momentum.”&nbsp;

“We’ve come a long way since the beginning of the pandemic,” said Robbins at a meeting on Monday. “We’re still down a little bit in shoots and shoot days [compared to 2019], but we were up 28% in permit fees...we’re gaining momentum.”&nbsp;

“We’ve come a long way since the beginning of the pandemic,” said Robbins at a meeting on Monday. “We’re still down a little bit in shoots and shoot days [compared to 2019], but we were up 28% in permit fees&#8230;we’re gaining momentum.”&nbsp;

San Francisco <a href="https://filmsf.org/fees">charges fees per day</a>, and those fees can vary depending on the type of shoot: Low-budget productions pay $50 per day in fees, while larger-budget productions will pay $300 a day to film in the city. But the Film Commission, and some local officials, see a much greater economic opportunity as the city recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

San Francisco <a href="https://filmsf.org/fees">charges fees per day</a>, and those fees can vary depending on the type of shoot: Low-budget productions pay $50 per day in fees, while larger-budget productions will pay $300 a day to film in the city. But the Film Commission, and some local officials, see a much greater economic opportunity as the city recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

“It not only provides local jobs and local spending, but it reaches people worldwide and&#8230;can be a great way to inject money into the local economy and boost tourism again,” Robbins added.

“It not only provides local jobs and local spending, but it reaches people worldwide and...can be a great way to inject money into the local economy and boost tourism again,” Robbins added.

“It not only provides local jobs and local spending, but it reaches people worldwide and&#8230;can be a great way to inject money into the local economy and boost tourism again,” Robbins added.

<figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5563" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5563" class="wp-image-5563"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5571" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5571" class="wp-image-5571"/></figure></li></ul><figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Joseph Gordon-Levitt is slated to play hard-charging former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick in the Showtime series “Super Pumped,” expected to film in SF this December. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5563" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5563" class="wp-image-5563"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5571" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5571" class="wp-image-5571"/></figure></li></ul><figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Joseph Gordon-Levitt is slated to play hard-charging former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick in the Showtime series “Super Pumped,” expected to film in SF this December. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

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<div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:100%"><figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5563" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5563" class="wp-image-5563"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5571" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5571" class="wp-image-5571"/></figure></li></ul><figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Joseph Gordon-Levitt is slated to play hard-charging former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick in the Showtime series “Super Pumped,” expected to film in SF this December. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure></div>

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<div class="wp-block-columns"><div class="wp-block-column" style="flex-basis:100%"><figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5563" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1132024916-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5563" class="wp-image-5563"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" data-id="5571" data-full-url="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1178602187-1-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://sfstandard.com/?attachment_id=5571" class="wp-image-5571"/></figure></li></ul><figcaption class="blocks-gallery-caption">Joseph Gordon-Levitt is slated to play hard-charging former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick in the Showtime series “Super Pumped,” expected to film in SF this December. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure></div></div>

Hollywood productions largely ground to a halt during the pandemic, with countless shoots delayed throughout 2020 and into this year. San Francisco was no exception: The city paused filming permits entirely through June 2020 and collected just $1900 in permit fees during that month across nine shoots.&nbsp;

Hollywood productions largely ground to a halt during the pandemic, with countless shoots delayed throughout 2020 and into this year. San Francisco was no exception: The city paused filming permits entirely through June 2020 and collected just $1900 in permit fees during that month across nine shoots.&nbsp;

Big productions slated to shoot in San Francisco this year include “Super Pumped,” a Showtime series based on the early years of Uber, which was founded and has its headquarters in San Francisco.&nbsp;

Big productions slated to shoot in San Francisco this year include “Super Pumped,” a Showtime series based on the early years of Uber, which was founded and has its headquarters in San Francisco.&nbsp;

That series stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Travis Kalanick, the hard-charging Uber founder who was ousted as CEO by the company’s board in 2017. Parts of “Super Pumped” will film in the city in December.&nbsp;

That series stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Travis Kalanick, the hard-charging Uber founder who was ousted as CEO by the company’s board in 2017. Parts of “Super Pumped” will film in the city in December.&nbsp;

Other productions in the works include the Marvel film “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” which <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/sf-culture/article/Disney-tried-to-be-secretive-about-filming-an-16271509.php">filmed two days</a> at a North Beach police station last week. The crew is expected to return for additional shoots in January 2022. “Josephine,” a feature film by screenwriter Beth de Araújo, is also expected to film in San Francisco in January.

Other productions in the works include the Marvel film “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” which <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/sf-culture/article/Disney-tried-to-be-secretive-about-filming-an-16271509.php">filmed two days</a> at a North Beach police station last week. The crew is expected to return for additional shoots in January 2022. “Josephine,” a feature film by screenwriter Beth de Araújo, is also expected to film in San Francisco in January.

ROME, ITALY - JULY 19:  Actor Paul Rudd attends 'Ant-Man And The Wasp' photocall at The Russie Hotel on July 19, 2018 in Rome, Italy.  (Photo by Franco Origlia/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1666" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1001714678-2500x1666.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5529"/><figcaption>Paul Rudd stars in “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” which filmed in North Beach earlier this June. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1001714678-2500x1666.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5529"/><figcaption>Paul Rudd stars in “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” which filmed in North Beach earlier this June. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

“Goodbye Mr. Chips,” an opera composed by Gordon Getty, is expected to stage at Hangar 3 on Treasure Island—a 79,000 square foot facility revitalized as <a href="https://sftreasureisland.org/article/film-production-returns-treasure-island-hangar-3">a production space</a> in 2019—and will film entirely in San Francisco.

“Goodbye Mr. Chips,” an opera composed by Gordon Getty, is expected to stage at Hangar 3 on Treasure Island—a 79,000 square foot facility revitalized as <a href="https://sftreasureisland.org/article/film-production-returns-treasure-island-hangar-3">a production space</a> in 2019—and will film entirely in San Francisco.

Treasure Island, Yerba Buena Island, top, and the western span of the Bay Bridge are seen from this drone view in San Francisco on Thursday, May 13, 2021.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1665" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1318353272-2500x1665.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5536"/><figcaption>An opera called “Goodbye Mr. Chips” is looking to film at a 79,000 square foot facility on Treasure Island. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1318353272-2500x1665.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-5536"/><figcaption>An opera called “Goodbye Mr. Chips” is looking to film at a 79,000 square foot facility on Treasure Island. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

That makes it eligible for a rebate program called <a href="https://filmsf.org/scene-san-francisco-rebate-program">Scene in San Francisco</a>, which refunds payroll taxes and fees of up to $600,000 for movies, television shows and pilots filmed in San Francisco. The majority of a production must take place in San Francisco in order to qualify.

That makes it eligible for a rebate program called <a href="https://filmsf.org/scene-san-francisco-rebate-program">Scene in San Francisco</a>, which refunds payroll taxes and fees of up to $600,000 for movies, television shows and pilots filmed in San Francisco. The majority of a production must take place in San Francisco in order to qualify.

According to Robbins, in order to attract more big-budget productions that might otherwise be filmed largely in Vancouver or Los Angeles, San Francisco should build a new “stage space”—a very large, spacious studio facility designed to accommodate film sets. The Film Commission plans to coordinate with Supervisor Ahsha Safai, San Francisco Director of Real Estate Andrico Penick and Kate Sofis, head of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development, to identify potential sites and avenues for film development.&nbsp;

According to Robbins, in order to attract more big-budget productions that might otherwise be filmed largely in Vancouver or Los Angeles, San Francisco should build a new “stage space”—a very large, spacious studio facility designed to accommodate film sets. The Film Commission plans to coordinate with Supervisor Ahsha Safai, San Francisco Director of Real Estate Andrico Penick and Kate Sofis, head of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development, to identify potential sites and avenues for film development.&nbsp;

To better support underrepresented artists in the entertainment industry, the commission is also weighing a few initiatives to boost diversity.&nbsp;

To better support underrepresented artists in the entertainment industry, the commission is also weighing a few initiatives to boost diversity.&nbsp;

Those ideas include potential partnerships with grant-making organizations, such as the San Francisco Arts Commission, to help kickstart projects and facilitate film festivals that highlight diverse communities. The Office of Economic and Workforce Development also plans to participate. 

Those ideas include potential partnerships with grant-making organizations, such as the San Francisco Arts Commission, to help kickstart projects and facilitate film festivals that highlight diverse communities. The Office of Economic and Workforce Development also plans to participate.

San Francisco eyes more movie, television productions to boost local recovery

A fiercely contested housing proposal in the Sunset District moved forward at the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Wednesday with the approval of a $14.3 million loan to support the project.&nbsp;

A fiercely contested housing proposal in the Sunset District moved forward at the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Wednesday with the approval of a $14.3 million loan to support the project.&nbsp;

The Board’s Budget and Finance Committee voted to approve the loan for the seven-story, 100% affordable development at 2550 Irving Street that has sparked debate in and around the neighborhood for months. The loan, which is instrumental in ensuring further financing for the project, will advance to the full Board of Supervisors for a final vote.&nbsp;

The Board’s Budget and Finance Committee voted to approve the loan for the seven-story, 100% affordable development at 2550 Irving Street that has sparked debate in and around the neighborhood for months. The loan, which is instrumental in ensuring further financing for the project, will advance to the full Board of Supervisors for a final vote.&nbsp;

2550 Irving would be the first entirely affordable housing development of its kind in the Sunset District.

2550 Irving would be the first entirely affordable housing development of its kind in the Sunset District.

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/LaAay2r2Z-F3GBlbMUd2q1kaqfmfq7xcDXJbPMAcTvws6XnUQixlQvif5pIMqyQmewGKhgdh1npmfIYGV2r2jSjILI0AmkhhABOiDEiujh0zMZSsZIUuEAuwo7NizK2xlv5NNqL7" alt=""/><figcaption>The Police Credit Union at 2550 Irving St. is the proposed site for a 98-unit affordable housing project in the Sunset. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

At Wednesday’s meeting, dozens of callers voiced support for the development, saying it was sorely needed to address rising unaffordability and housing instability for working-class and lower-income families. Of the 98 proposed units, half are targeted specifically at families earning between $27,000 and $102,000 annually.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At Wednesday’s meeting, dozens of callers voiced support for the development, saying it was sorely needed to address rising unaffordability and housing instability for working-class and lower-income families. Of the 98 proposed units, half are targeted specifically at families earning between $27,000 and $102,000 annually.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I believe that affordable housing is the solution to combat the homelessness situation in the city,” said Julie Fong, who described herself as a Sunset resident and third-generation San Franciscan. “We have become a city with a reputation for unhoused people that we have more than enough power to help&#8230;please do the right thing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I believe that affordable housing is the solution to combat the homelessness situation in the city,” said Julie Fong, who described herself as a Sunset resident and third-generation San Franciscan. “We have become a city with a reputation for unhoused people that we have more than enough power to help...please do the right thing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I believe that affordable housing is the solution to combat the homelessness situation in the city,” said Julie Fong, who described herself as a Sunset resident and third-generation San Franciscan. “We have become a city with a reputation for unhoused people that we have more than enough power to help&#8230;please do the right thing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Opponents of the project cited a range of concerns: the impact on parking and congestion, a loss of sunlight, a lack of aesthetic appeal to the surrounding neighborhood and a toxin called Tetrachloroethene—common at former dry cleaning sites—which was found during an environmental review.&nbsp;

Opponents of the project cited a range of concerns: the impact on parking and congestion, a loss of sunlight, a lack of aesthetic appeal to the surrounding neighborhood and a toxin called Tetrachloroethene—common at former dry cleaning sites—which was found during an environmental review.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Y_zroDBUuQM-DPU61a4gPuQYFhmw1gUUfkUGMyd6hBJpovetzXLYvRNtlVNsQ5ubNvrMrF73uVIL-MVC5QKzCkj956BMIi7qs9mrbGwZ-0ECLdZMZ1lylLqwSwGCWYstX-S8sw71" alt=""/><figcaption>Robert Ho shares his concerns about the 2550 Irving St. affordable housing project on July 10, 2021. Sunset District community members gathered inside the Way Mei School to discuss affordable housing. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

The developer, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation (TNDC), plans to acquire the site using loans from the city and other financiers and develop the 2550 Irving housing project over the next several years. A two-story, vacant building will be demolished and replaced with the seven-story, multifamily complex at a total cost of $94,064,992, or nearly $1 million per unit.&nbsp;

The developer, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation (TNDC), plans to acquire the site using loans from the city and other financiers and develop the 2550 Irving housing project over the next several years. A two-story, vacant building will be demolished and replaced with the seven-story, multifamily complex at a total cost of $94,064,992, or nearly $1 million per unit.&nbsp;

“Overall, for family housing the total development costs will be higher than a project for just single individuals because of the greater amount of bedrooms,” said Amy Chan, a director at the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, in response to questions about the seemingly high sticker price.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Overall, for family housing the total development costs will be higher than a project for just single individuals because of the greater amount of bedrooms,” said Amy Chan, a director at the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, in response to questions about the seemingly high sticker price.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

As part of the pre-development process, land developers must also conduct an environmental review of the site, disclose any potentially harmful chemicals and come up with a plan for containment or remediation. Discovery of toxins is common in housing development, and in California, developers submit remediation plans for review to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for approval. TNDC expects that its remediation plan, which involves simply wrapping any toxic elements with safe materials, will satisfy any regulatory requirements.&nbsp;

As part of the pre-development process, land developers must also conduct an environmental review of the site, disclose any potentially harmful chemicals and come up with a plan for containment or remediation. Discovery of toxins is common in housing development, and in California, developers submit remediation plans for review to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for approval. TNDC expects that its remediation plan, which involves simply wrapping any toxic elements with safe materials, will satisfy any regulatory requirements.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Supervisor Gordon Mar asked the budget committee to delay approval of the loan until DTSC approves the remediation plan, saying that the neighborhood needs to “get the details right.”&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Supervisor Gordon Mar asked the budget committee to delay approval of the loan until DTSC approves the remediation plan, saying that the neighborhood needs to “get the details right.”&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RC3U4ZzshK_zH3ZOtMdChKlE2C0VYQScYVBA-JbaUIn9E_1lFJsFf3d6SGhVqaIFY-5jdIYDaQJFRCZGO86i9w62XIGFxnC5SVup5gVTFrXNMxFT8IMUGZ7vaFOGMeJWVQ1Zi-ll" alt=""/><figcaption>Supervisor Gordon Mar attends a community meeting to discuss the proposed Sunset Chinese Cultural District, affordable housing and community safety on July 10, 2021. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

That request was denied by Supervisors Matt Haney and Ahsha Safai, who said that the city urgently needs affordable housing and that smaller plans won’t make sense financially for developers. In addition to funding from San Francisco, TNDC will likely acquire matching funds from the state and federal governments to develop the affordable project.&nbsp;

That request was denied by Supervisors Matt Haney and Ahsha Safai, who said that the city urgently needs affordable housing and that smaller plans won’t make sense financially for developers. In addition to funding from San Francisco, TNDC will likely acquire matching funds from the state and federal governments to develop the affordable project.&nbsp;

The 2550 Irving project is expected to move more quickly than prior, similarly-sized developments in San Francisco under <a href="https://sfplanning.org/resource/sb35-application">Senate Bill 35</a>, a bill enacted three years ago that streamlines approvals for affordable housing projects.&nbsp;For multifamily projects that meet a certain threshold of affordability, and are already zoned in residential areas, SB35 requires an approval process of 90 days or less.

The 2550 Irving project is expected to move more quickly than prior, similarly-sized developments in San Francisco under <a href="https://sfplanning.org/resource/sb35-application">Senate Bill 35</a>, a bill enacted three years ago that streamlines approvals for affordable housing projects.&nbsp;For multifamily projects that meet a certain threshold of affordability, and are already zoned in residential areas, SB35 requires an approval process of 90 days or less.

San Francisco, along with California at large, is facing a protracted housing crunch that disproportionately burdens middle and low-income households.&nbsp;

San Francisco, along with California at large, is facing a protracted housing crunch that disproportionately burdens middle and low-income households.&nbsp;

Residential permit approvals plunged during COVID-19, according to the <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/mayor-breed-pledges-ballot-measures-to-boost-housing-small-business">Construction Industry Research Board</a>. In San Francisco, just 2,192 residential permits were approved last year, compared to 3,343 in 2019.

Residential permit approvals plunged during COVID-19, according to the <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/mayor-breed-pledges-ballot-measures-to-boost-housing-small-business">Construction Industry Research Board</a>. In San Francisco, just 2,192 residential permits were approved last year, compared to 3,343 in 2019.

The city must amp up housing production over the next decade to meet a state mandate called the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/our-work/housing/rhna-regional-housing-needs-allocation">Regional Housing Needs Allocation</a>. Under that mandate, San Francisco will likely be required to produce about 82,000 housing units suitable for varying income levels between 2023 and 2031.

The city must amp up housing production over the next decade to meet a state mandate called the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/our-work/housing/rhna-regional-housing-needs-allocation">Regional Housing Needs Allocation</a>. Under that mandate, San Francisco will likely be required to produce about 82,000 housing units suitable for varying income levels between 2023 and 2031.

In the meantime, San Francisco’s Planning Department is hammering out the details of a so-called Housing Element, or a local plan to meet the RHNA mandate. That plan will be finalized in 2022.&nbsp;

In the meantime, San Francisco’s Planning Department is hammering out the details of a so-called Housing Element, or a local plan to meet the RHNA mandate. That plan will be finalized in 2022.&nbsp;

Hotly contested sunset housing development gets rubber stamp from Board of Supervisors

In “Here’s How,” we’re breaking down how the city works, piece by piece. Up first: San Francisco’s 10 designated cultural districts.

In “Here’s How,” we’re breaking down how the city works, piece by piece. Up first: San Francisco’s 10 designated cultural districts.

San Francisco is a world-class city known for its patchwork of ethnically and culturally distinct neighborhoods. They’re also the backbone of the city’s economy. According to <a href="https://m.box.com/shared_item/https%3A%2F%2Fsftravel.box.com%2Fs%2Fol6uzsqgpmqzvwqa7di6ktinzgnjip96">SF Travel</a>, in 2019, an estimated 26.2 million tourists traveled to San Francisco and spent approximately $10.29 billion on the city’s businesses and attractions.&nbsp;

San Francisco is a world-class city known for its patchwork of ethnically and culturally distinct neighborhoods. They’re also the backbone of the city’s economy. According to <a href="https://m.box.com/shared_item/https%3A%2F%2Fsftravel.box.com%2Fs%2Fol6uzsqgpmqzvwqa7di6ktinzgnjip96">SF Travel</a>, in 2019, an estimated 26.2 million tourists traveled to San Francisco and spent approximately $10.29 billion on the city’s businesses and attractions.&nbsp;

While San Francisco’s tourism industry <a href="https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/san-francisco-tourism-industry-crippled-by-pandemic/">drastically declined</a> due to the pandemic, there are residents working to make sure that the city’s neighborhood amenities are here to stay. They are well connected to city leadership and dedicated to ensuring that San Francisco’s economy makes a strong comeback. They have installed murals, financially supported parklets for businesses under the <a href="https://sf.gov/shared-spaces">Shared Spaces</a> program, and are focused on equity and cultural preservation. These residents are part of San Francisco’s cultural districts.&nbsp;

While San Francisco’s tourism industry <a href="https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/san-francisco-tourism-industry-crippled-by-pandemic/">drastically declined</a> due to the pandemic, there are residents working to make sure that the city’s neighborhood amenities are here to stay. They are well connected to city leadership and dedicated to ensuring that San Francisco’s economy makes a strong comeback. They have installed murals, financially supported parklets for businesses under the <a href="https://sf.gov/shared-spaces">Shared Spaces</a> program, and are focused on equity and cultural preservation. These residents are part of San Francisco’s cultural districts.&nbsp;

A cultural district is a <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/o0126-18.pdf">geographic area </a>within San Francisco that “embodies a unique heritage” and receives financial support from the city. Each district is defined by its residents’ cultural and historical contributions to the city, like locally-owned businesses, music venues, colorful murals and festivals.&nbsp;

A cultural district is a <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/o0126-18.pdf">geographic area </a>within San Francisco that “embodies a unique heritage” and receives financial support from the city. Each district is defined by its residents’ cultural and historical contributions to the city, like locally-owned businesses, music venues, colorful murals and festivals.&nbsp;

How Are Cultural Districts Created?

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-cultural-districts-created">How Are Cultural Districts Created?</h3>

core/heading

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-cultural-districts-created">How Are Cultural Districts Created?</h3>

Cultural districts are created and legislated by a District Supervisor who represents that area. The District Supervisor appoints a steering committee consisting of business owners, community leaders and property owners to establish the cultural district’s geographic boundary.

Cultural districts are created and legislated by a District Supervisor who represents that area. The District Supervisor appoints a steering committee consisting of business owners, community leaders and property owners to establish the cultural district’s geographic boundary.

After a series of meetings, the steering committee meets with its District Supervisor to seek approval for the district’s geographic boundary. Once the Supervisor approves the boundary, they draft legislation and present it before the full <a href="https://sfbos.org/about-board">Board of Supervisors</a>. When the full board approves the legislation, a cultural district is born. This process takes about six months to a year.

After a series of meetings, the steering committee meets with its District Supervisor to seek approval for the district’s geographic boundary. Once the Supervisor approves the boundary, they draft legislation and present it before the full <a href="https://sfbos.org/about-board">Board of Supervisors</a>. When the full board approves the legislation, a cultural district is born. This process takes about six months to a year.

Why Does The City Need Cultural Districts?

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-the-city-need-cultural-districts">Why Does The City Need Cultural Districts?</h3>

Cultural districts exist to correct the city’s history of <a href="https://www.urbandisplacement.org/redlining">inequitable practices</a> that led to <a href="https://abc7news.com/san-francisco-oakland-gentrified-gentrification/6302035/">gentrification</a>. The districts’ steering committees work directly with the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor&#8217;s <a href="https://sf.gov/departments/mayors-office-housing-and-community-development">Office of Housing and Community Development</a> (MOHCD) on neighborhood-specific policies that benefit each district’s residents.

Cultural districts exist to correct the city’s history of <a href="https://www.urbandisplacement.org/redlining">inequitable practices</a> that led to <a href="https://abc7news.com/san-francisco-oakland-gentrified-gentrification/6302035/">gentrification</a>. The districts’ steering committees work directly with the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor's <a href="https://sf.gov/departments/mayors-office-housing-and-community-development">Office of Housing and Community Development</a> (MOHCD) on neighborhood-specific policies that benefit each district’s residents.

Cultural districts exist to correct the city’s history of <a href="https://www.urbandisplacement.org/redlining">inequitable practices</a> that led to <a href="https://abc7news.com/san-francisco-oakland-gentrified-gentrification/6302035/">gentrification</a>. The districts’ steering committees work directly with the Board of Supervisors and the Mayor&#8217;s <a href="https://sf.gov/departments/mayors-office-housing-and-community-development">Office of Housing and Community Development</a> (MOHCD) on neighborhood-specific policies that benefit each district’s residents.

“The cultural districts program is an opportunity to use public policy as a tool to amplify healing,” said Julia Sabory, who manages the program for MOHCD. “This work is done by addressing historical and present-day trauma, while also building for a better day for our children and our children&#8217;s children. We all deserve a space to feel safe, a place to feel welcome and a place to call home.”

“The cultural districts program is an opportunity to use public policy as a tool to amplify healing,” said Julia Sabory, who manages the program for MOHCD. “This work is done by addressing historical and present-day trauma, while also building for a better day for our children and our children's children. We all deserve a space to feel safe, a place to feel welcome and a place to call home.”

“The cultural districts program is an opportunity to use public policy as a tool to amplify healing,” said Julia Sabory, who manages the program for MOHCD. “This work is done by addressing historical and present-day trauma, while also building for a better day for our children and our children&#8217;s children. We all deserve a space to feel safe, a place to feel welcome and a place to call home.”

Part of that healing is acknowledging the history of the land on which the district was built. For example, in December of 2020, after meetings with the <a href="https://americanindianculturaldistrict.org/">American Indian Cultural District</a>, Supervisor Hillary Ronen, as part of the <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/rls113020_agenda.pdf">Rules Committee, made a motion </a>to include Dolores Park as part of that district’s boundaries.&nbsp;

Part of that healing is acknowledging the history of the land on which the district was built. For example, in December of 2020, after meetings with the <a href="https://americanindianculturaldistrict.org/">American Indian Cultural District</a>, Supervisor Hillary Ronen, as part of the <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/rls113020_agenda.pdf">Rules Committee, made a motion </a>to include Dolores Park as part of that district’s boundaries.&nbsp;

The Rules Committee subsequently <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=8939025&amp;GUID=280C1F01-C2ED-47ED-8AD7-AC86F5F6DB5F">passed a motion</a> to include a statement acknowledging the Native heritage of San Francisco as a standard procedure at the start of all Board of Supervisors meetings.&nbsp;

The Rules Committee subsequently <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=8939025&amp;GUID=280C1F01-C2ED-47ED-8AD7-AC86F5F6DB5F">passed a motion</a> to include a statement acknowledging the Native heritage of San Francisco as a standard procedure at the start of all Board of Supervisors meetings.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SF-Cultural-Districts-Map-Winter-2021_0-1-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-78488"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco currently has 10 cultural districts (Pacific Island Cultural District not pictured). | Image courtesy of SF&#8217;s Planning Dept.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SF-Cultural-Districts-Map-Winter-2021_0-1-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-78488"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco currently has 10 cultural districts (Pacific Island Cultural District not pictured). | Image courtesy of SF's Planning Dept.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SF-Cultural-Districts-Map-Winter-2021_0-1-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-78488"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco currently has 10 cultural districts (Pacific Island Cultural District not pictured). | Image courtesy of SF&#8217;s Planning Dept.</figcaption></figure>

What Do They Accomplish?

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-they-accomplish">What Do They Accomplish?</h3>

Each cultural district’s steering committee is responsible for championing community-strengthening policies. The committees advocate for small businesses, resist development of chain businesses, prioritize affordable housing and make sure workers are paid living wages. This work is done to ensure that cultural districts will benefit when San Francisco experiences the next surge of economic growth without neighborhood businesses or local residents&nbsp; being priced out of the city.&nbsp;

Each cultural district’s steering committee is responsible for championing community-strengthening policies. The committees advocate for small businesses, resist development of chain businesses, prioritize affordable housing and make sure workers are paid living wages. This work is done to ensure that cultural districts will benefit when San Francisco experiences the next surge of economic growth without neighborhood businesses or local residents&nbsp; being priced out of the city.&nbsp;

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-are-they-funded">How Are They Funded?</h3>

MOHCD manages the seed funding for cultural districts, but the actual funds come from <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/San_Francisco,_California,_Proposition_E,_Partial_Allocation_of_Hotel_Tax_for_Arts_and_Culture_(November_2018)">Prop E</a>, a ballot measure that shifted a portion of hotel tax revenue to arts and cultural services. The legislation’s baseline funding for cultural districts is $3 million. While the percentage of financing for each cultural district will likely <a href="https://www.spur.org/voter-guide/san-francisco-2018-11/prop-e-hotel-tax-arts">fluctuate</a> yearly, the program funding from Prop E is capped at 10% of hotel tax revenue, which guarantees a minimum amount for the program. &#8220;The legislation was smartly written,” added Sabory. &#8220;Although COVID has almost nearly wiped out tourism and hotel usage in 2020, it has saved the cultural district program, and this percentage cap will ensure that they are always funded.&#8221;&nbsp;

MOHCD manages the seed funding for cultural districts, but the actual funds come from <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/San_Francisco,_California,_Proposition_E,_Partial_Allocation_of_Hotel_Tax_for_Arts_and_Culture_(November_2018)">Prop E</a>, a ballot measure that shifted a portion of hotel tax revenue to arts and cultural services. The legislation’s baseline funding for cultural districts is $3 million. While the percentage of financing for each cultural district will likely <a href="https://www.spur.org/voter-guide/san-francisco-2018-11/prop-e-hotel-tax-arts">fluctuate</a> yearly, the program funding from Prop E is capped at 10% of hotel tax revenue, which guarantees a minimum amount for the program. "The legislation was smartly written,” added Sabory. "Although COVID has almost nearly wiped out tourism and hotel usage in 2020, it has saved the cultural district program, and this percentage cap will ensure that they are always funded."&nbsp;

MOHCD manages the seed funding for cultural districts, but the actual funds come from <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/San_Francisco,_California,_Proposition_E,_Partial_Allocation_of_Hotel_Tax_for_Arts_and_Culture_(November_2018)">Prop E</a>, a ballot measure that shifted a portion of hotel tax revenue to arts and cultural services. The legislation’s baseline funding for cultural districts is $3 million. While the percentage of financing for each cultural district will likely <a href="https://www.spur.org/voter-guide/san-francisco-2018-11/prop-e-hotel-tax-arts">fluctuate</a> yearly, the program funding from Prop E is capped at 10% of hotel tax revenue, which guarantees a minimum amount for the program. &#8220;The legislation was smartly written,” added Sabory. &#8220;Although COVID has almost nearly wiped out tourism and hotel usage in 2020, it has saved the cultural district program, and this percentage cap will ensure that they are always funded.&#8221;&nbsp;

SF’s Cultural Districts

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sf-s-cultural-districts">SF’s Cultural Districts</h3>

Making more out of the mall experience

San Francisco eyes more movie, television productions to boost local recovery

Hotly contested sunset housing development gets rubber stamp from Board of Supervisors

Here’s how San Francisco’s cultural districts work

Introducing Here/Hear, an audio retrospective on the pandemic

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Making more out of the mall experience

San Francisco eyes more movie, television productions to boost local recovery

Hotly contested sunset housing development gets rubber stamp from Board of Supervisors

Here’s how San Francisco’s cultural districts work

Introducing Here/Hear, an audio retrospective on the pandemic