Mike Ege

The Board of Supervisors spent much of Tuesday’s relatively short meeting discussing housing-related issues and putting the final touches on the relaunch of the city’s rent relief program. But they still found time to talk a little trash, literally and figuratively. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/bag040522_agenda.pdf">complete agenda</a>).

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The Board of Supervisors spent much of Tuesday’s relatively short meeting discussing housing-related issues and putting the final touches on the relaunch of the city’s rent relief program. But they still found time to talk a little trash, literally and figuratively. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/bag040522_agenda.pdf">complete agenda</a>).

As <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/san-francisco-moves-to-restart-rent-relief-as-state-bows-out/">reported previously</a>, San Francisco is restarting its Covid-19 rent relief program—picking up where the state’s program, which stopped taking applications at the end of March, leaves off.&nbsp;

As <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/san-francisco-moves-to-restart-rent-relief-as-state-bows-out/">reported previously</a>, San Francisco is restarting its Covid-19 rent relief program—picking up where the state’s program, which stopped taking applications at the end of March, leaves off.&nbsp;

The goal is to assist tenants who need help covering rent this month, or who faced barriers to applying for state relief. The program will also help tenants already in eviction court through the Tenant Right to Counsel program.&nbsp;

The goal is to assist tenants who need help covering rent this month, or who faced barriers to applying for state relief. The program will also help tenants already in eviction court through the Tenant Right to Counsel program.&nbsp;

To that end the board approved two bills. One, principally sponsored by Supervisor Dean Preston, extends the rent relief program and makes some changes to how certain payments are delivered. Another, sponsored by Mayor London Breed, authorizes larger grants for nonprofit organizations working in the program.&nbsp;

To that end the board approved two bills. One, principally sponsored by Supervisor Dean Preston, extends the rent relief program and makes some changes to how certain payments are delivered. Another, sponsored by Mayor London Breed, authorizes larger grants for nonprofit organizations working in the program.&nbsp;

These items were approved unanimously, but not before Supervisor Hilary Ronen aired concerns about internal squabbling at a subcontractor for the program.&nbsp;

These items were approved unanimously, but not before Supervisor Hilary Ronen aired concerns about internal squabbling at a subcontractor for the program.&nbsp;

During discussion, Ronen noted that Gabriel Medina, the recently appointed director of La Raza Community Resource Center, had been lobbying members of the board for amendments to include the organization in eligibility for grants under the program.&nbsp;

During discussion, Ronen noted that Gabriel Medina, the recently appointed director of La Raza Community Resource Center, had been lobbying members of the board for amendments to include the organization in eligibility for grants under the program.&nbsp;

Ronen said that the lobbying was “incredibly troubling,” alluding to internal conflicts between Medina and long-serving staffers at the nonprofit, which she said should preclude its eligibility for contracts under the rent relief program. She went on to say that any amendments to accommodate the nonprofit “would not be good fiscal stewardship.” La Raza Community Resource Center does some work in the program as a subcontractor.&nbsp;

Ronen said that the lobbying was “incredibly troubling,” alluding to internal conflicts between Medina and long-serving staffers at the nonprofit, which she said should preclude its eligibility for contracts under the rent relief program. She went on to say that any amendments to accommodate the nonprofit “would not be good fiscal stewardship.” La Raza Community Resource Center does some work in the program as a subcontractor.&nbsp;

During further discussion, it was noted by staffers from the Mayor’s Office of Housing that passing the legislation would not bar the nonprofit from eligibility to work for the rent relief program after further review. Supervisors Myrna Melgar and Ahsha Safai expressed concern over the airing of the internal dispute, with Melgar commenting that it made her “deeply uncomfortable… it’s a mistake to have those dynamics be part of the process.”&nbsp;

During further discussion, it was noted by staffers from the Mayor’s Office of Housing that passing the legislation would not bar the nonprofit from eligibility to work for the rent relief program after further review. Supervisors Myrna Melgar and Ahsha Safai expressed concern over the airing of the internal dispute, with Melgar commenting that it made her “deeply uncomfortable… it’s a mistake to have those dynamics be part of the process.”&nbsp;

The board also approved a resolution approving a $1.8 million settlement by the city with former planning commissioner Dennis Richards and partners. Richards alleged in a lawsuit that the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/tone-at-the-top-led-to-fraud-bribes-at-department-of-building-inspection-report-finds/">scandal-plagued</a> Department of Building Inspection launched retaliatory inspections and permit revocations against an investment property he was selling after he publicly criticized the agency.&nbsp;

The board also approved a resolution approving a $1.8 million settlement by the city with former planning commissioner Dennis Richards and partners. Richards alleged in a lawsuit that the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/tone-at-the-top-led-to-fraud-bribes-at-department-of-building-inspection-report-finds/">scandal-plagued</a> Department of Building Inspection launched retaliatory inspections and permit revocations against an investment property he was selling after he publicly criticized the agency.&nbsp;

The case became heated enough that Richards told DBI employees to “go fuck themselves” at a December 2019 Board of Appeals hearing. It also produced allegations that he had used tenant buyouts to expedite the sale of another property while serving as a commissioner. Richards would eventually resign from the commission over the controversy.&nbsp;

The case became heated enough that Richards told DBI employees to “go fuck themselves” at a December 2019 Board of Appeals hearing. It also produced allegations that he had used tenant buyouts to expedite the sale of another property while serving as a commissioner. Richards would eventually resign from the commission over the controversy.&nbsp;

Before voting, Melgar recused herself from the vote, citing her service as president of the Planning Commission during the period Richards served and resigned, and noting she had “strong feelings” on the matter. The supervisors signed off on the settlement by a vote of 10-0. Richards and his partners had originally sought $12 million.&nbsp;

Before voting, Melgar recused herself from the vote, citing her service as president of the Planning Commission during the period Richards served and resigned, and noting she had “strong feelings” on the matter. The supervisors signed off on the settlement by a vote of 10-0. Richards and his partners had originally sought $12 million.&nbsp;

Also passed was a non-binding resolution sponsored by Supervisor Aaron Peskin urging Assessor-Recorder Joaquin Torres to make all information regarding property transactions in the city available on the web at no cost. As we <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/search-for-russian-oligarch-wealth-hits-a-wall-in-sf-thanks-to-citys-disregard-for-public-records-laws/">recently reported</a>, Peskin had introduced similar resolutions upon the swearing in of previous Assessor-Recorders, whose office currently requires members of the public wanting to examine property transactions to physically come to City Hall and use in-house terminals to view the information—paying $3 per page for any printouts they want.&nbsp;

Also passed was a non-binding resolution sponsored by Supervisor Aaron Peskin urging Assessor-Recorder Joaquin Torres to make all information regarding property transactions in the city available on the web at no cost. As we <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/search-for-russian-oligarch-wealth-hits-a-wall-in-sf-thanks-to-citys-disregard-for-public-records-laws/">recently reported</a>, Peskin had introduced similar resolutions upon the swearing in of previous Assessor-Recorders, whose office currently requires members of the public wanting to examine property transactions to physically come to City Hall and use in-house terminals to view the information—paying $3 per page for any printouts they want.&nbsp;

Roll Call was dominated by hearing requests, though there were two substantive pieces of legislation introduced. Melgar introduced legislation amending the city’s ordinance on Ellis Act evictions, raising the tenant relocation payments to $10,000, and harmonizing language with recent amendments to state law. Supervisor Matt Haney introduced legislation to simplify certain zoning rules in the SoMa in benefit of small businesses.&nbsp;

Roll Call was dominated by hearing requests, though there were two substantive pieces of legislation introduced. Melgar introduced legislation amending the city’s ordinance on Ellis Act evictions, raising the tenant relocation payments to $10,000, and harmonizing language with recent amendments to state law. Supervisor Matt Haney introduced legislation to simplify certain zoning rules in the SoMa in benefit of small businesses.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Peskin highlighted <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sfs-environmental-agency-director-recology-25k-trash-contract/">recent revelations</a> at the Department of the Environment of solicitation of behested payments from Recology in possible connection with a pending landfill contract, deeming them “more than deeply disturbing,” in requesting a hearing on contracting practices at the department.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Peskin highlighted <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sfs-environmental-agency-director-recology-25k-trash-contract/">recent revelations</a> at the Department of the Environment of solicitation of behested payments from Recology in possible connection with a pending landfill contract, deeming them “more than deeply disturbing,” in requesting a hearing on contracting practices at the department.&nbsp;

Preston requested a hearing on the recently released recommendations of the Housing Stability Fund Oversight Board, which oversees use of fund revenues in part derived from Proposition I, the surtax on multi-million dollar property sales approved by voters in 2020.&nbsp;

Preston requested a hearing on the recently released recommendations of the Housing Stability Fund Oversight Board, which oversees use of fund revenues in part derived from Proposition I, the surtax on multi-million dollar property sales approved by voters in 2020.&nbsp;

This may mean a rerun of the fight between Mayor Breed and the supervisors over how to use those funds, which technically are from a general tax and should go to the city’s general fund. In the Summer of 2021 Breed wanted to use the funds to address homelessness and other pressing issues exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Supervisors overrode her veto of a resolution to dedicate the funds to rent relief and social housing programs.

This may mean a rerun of the fight between Mayor Breed and the supervisors over how to use those funds, which technically are from a general tax and should go to the city’s general fund. In the Summer of 2021 Breed wanted to use the funds to address homelessness and other pressing issues exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Supervisors overrode her veto of a resolution to dedicate the funds to rent relief and social housing programs.

Citing a recent shooting at Alice Chalmers Playground and a <a href="http://fightfor15.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Beaten-stabbed-silenced-violence-in-California%E2%80%99s-fast-food-industry-and-workers-fight-for-a-voice.pdf">recent study</a> by a labor advocacy group on violent crimes against fast-food workers, Safai requested hearings on safety at the city’s fast-food establishments, as well as on public safety strategies for the city’s parks, including the installation of security cameras and the hiring of more Park Patrol officers.

Citing a recent shooting at Alice Chalmers Playground and a <a href="http://fightfor15.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Beaten-stabbed-silenced-violence-in-California%E2%80%99s-fast-food-industry-and-workers-fight-for-a-voice.pdf">recent study</a> by a labor advocacy group on violent crimes against fast-food workers, Safai requested hearings on safety at the city’s fast-food establishments, as well as on public safety strategies for the city’s parks, including the installation of security cameras and the hiring of more Park Patrol officers.

Board of Supes roundup: Housing, dirty laundry and lots of hearings

A contamination scare in the Sunset, a slew of November ballot measures, and a potential new member of the Police Commission headline what may be a lengthy and complicated Board of Supervisors meeting this week.&nbsp;

A contamination scare in the Sunset, a slew of November ballot measures, and a potential new member of the Police Commission headline what may be a lengthy and complicated Board of Supervisors meeting this week.&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed will kick off the meeting with her usual monthly address to the body, though no supervisors submitted questions to the mayor. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/bag071222_agenda.pdf">complete agenda</a>.)

Mayor London Breed will kick off the meeting with her usual monthly address to the body, though no supervisors submitted questions to the mayor. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/bag071222_agenda.pdf">complete agenda</a>.)

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-charter-amendments">More Charter Amendments</h2>

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<h2 id="h-more-charter-amendments">More Charter Amendments</h2>

San Francisco Supervisors Dean Preston, right, and Connie Chan, left, at the Board of Supervisors meeting on May 2, 2022. | Camille Cohen/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/SupesSortofPreview621_INLINED.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-56059"/><figcaption>San Francisco Supervisors Dean Preston, right, and Connie Chan, left, at the Board of Supervisors meeting on May 2, 2022. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/SupesSortofPreview621_INLINED.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-56059"/><figcaption>San Francisco Supervisors Dean Preston, right, and Connie Chan, left, at the Board of Supervisors meeting on May 2, 2022. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/rent-control-on-new-units-sped-up-construction-and-new-housing-governance-at-city-hall-promised-by-supes-in-raft-of-fall-ballot-measures/">11 proposed charter amendments</a> for the November ballot, the board will be voting on some of the more consequential at Tuesday’s meeting. Those include:&nbsp;

Of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/rent-control-on-new-units-sped-up-construction-and-new-housing-governance-at-city-hall-promised-by-supes-in-raft-of-fall-ballot-measures/">11 proposed charter amendments</a> for the November ballot, the board will be voting on some of the more consequential at Tuesday’s meeting. Those include:&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Creation of a Homelessness Oversight Commission, which would supervise the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing. Its principal sponsor is District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai.<ul><li>Under the proposed charter amendment, the new commission would have seven members: four appointed by the mayor with supervisor approval and three appointed by the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;</li><li>Other homelessness-related oversight bodies would be overseen by the new commission. One of them is the Local Homeless Coordinating Board, where a recent appointee <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/local-homeless-coordinating-board-appointee-raises-concerns-about-oversight-of-sf-homeless-policy/">became the subject of conflict of interest concerns</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>At a July 7 committee meeting, this measure was recommended to the full board by a 2-1 vote after amendments. District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan opposed, based on mayoral appointments continuing to represent a majority on the new body.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>The Affordable Housing Production Act, sponsored principally by Chan, would streamline the approval process for specific kinds of affordable housing projects, including 100% affordable projects, teacher housing, as well as some market-rate projects with increased inclusionary affordable housing. &nbsp;<ul><li>If placed on the ballot, the measure would be in direct competition with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/breeds-housing-measure-heads-to-november-ballot-while-a-competing-proposal-looms/">Affordable Homes Now initiative charter amendment</a>, which qualified for the ballot last month. It&#8217;s backed by Mayor Breed and a number of housing activist groups such as YIMBY Action.&nbsp;</li><li>Chan’s measure is also described as a streamlining measure but includes additional requirements, such as specific apartment formats, that opponents say would make projects financially unfeasible.&nbsp;</li><li>It also requires projects to employ <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/local-unions-lock-horns-over-competing-housing-measures/">only “skilled and trained” labor,</a> meaning that workers must have completed apprenticeship programs. So far, some of the city’s influential unions are split on whether that language should be included.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul></li></ul>

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<ul><li>Creation of a Homelessness Oversight Commission, which would supervise the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing. Its principal sponsor is District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai.<ul><li>Under the proposed charter amendment, the new commission would have seven members: four appointed by the mayor with supervisor approval and three appointed by the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;</li><li>Other homelessness-related oversight bodies would be overseen by the new commission. One of them is the Local Homeless Coordinating Board, where a recent appointee <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/local-homeless-coordinating-board-appointee-raises-concerns-about-oversight-of-sf-homeless-policy/">became the subject of conflict of interest concerns</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>At a July 7 committee meeting, this measure was recommended to the full board by a 2-1 vote after amendments. District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan opposed, based on mayoral appointments continuing to represent a majority on the new body.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>The Affordable Housing Production Act, sponsored principally by Chan, would streamline the approval process for specific kinds of affordable housing projects, including 100% affordable projects, teacher housing, as well as some market-rate projects with increased inclusionary affordable housing. &nbsp;<ul><li>If placed on the ballot, the measure would be in direct competition with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/breeds-housing-measure-heads-to-november-ballot-while-a-competing-proposal-looms/">Affordable Homes Now initiative charter amendment</a>, which qualified for the ballot last month. It's backed by Mayor Breed and a number of housing activist groups such as YIMBY Action.&nbsp;</li><li>Chan’s measure is also described as a streamlining measure but includes additional requirements, such as specific apartment formats, that opponents say would make projects financially unfeasible.&nbsp;</li><li>It also requires projects to employ <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/local-unions-lock-horns-over-competing-housing-measures/">only “skilled and trained” labor,</a> meaning that workers must have completed apprenticeship programs. So far, some of the city’s influential unions are split on whether that language should be included.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul></li></ul>

<ul><li>Creation of a Homelessness Oversight Commission, which would supervise the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing. Its principal sponsor is District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai.<ul><li>Under the proposed charter amendment, the new commission would have seven members: four appointed by the mayor with supervisor approval and three appointed by the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;</li><li>Other homelessness-related oversight bodies would be overseen by the new commission. One of them is the Local Homeless Coordinating Board, where a recent appointee <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/homelessness/local-homeless-coordinating-board-appointee-raises-concerns-about-oversight-of-sf-homeless-policy/">became the subject of conflict of interest concerns</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>At a July 7 committee meeting, this measure was recommended to the full board by a 2-1 vote after amendments. District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan opposed, based on mayoral appointments continuing to represent a majority on the new body.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>The Affordable Housing Production Act, sponsored principally by Chan, would streamline the approval process for specific kinds of affordable housing projects, including 100% affordable projects, teacher housing, as well as some market-rate projects with increased inclusionary affordable housing. &nbsp;<ul><li>If placed on the ballot, the measure would be in direct competition with the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/breeds-housing-measure-heads-to-november-ballot-while-a-competing-proposal-looms/">Affordable Homes Now initiative charter amendment</a>, which qualified for the ballot last month. It&#8217;s backed by Mayor Breed and a number of housing activist groups such as YIMBY Action.&nbsp;</li><li>Chan’s measure is also described as a streamlining measure but includes additional requirements, such as specific apartment formats, that opponents say would make projects financially unfeasible.&nbsp;</li><li>It also requires projects to employ <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/local-unions-lock-horns-over-competing-housing-measures/">only “skilled and trained” labor,</a> meaning that workers must have completed apprenticeship programs. So far, some of the city’s influential unions are split on whether that language should be included.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul></li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>A measure, sponsored by District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin, to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/garbage-out-supervisors-seek-to-sweep-away-new-street-cleaning-department/">eliminate the newly created Department of Sanitation and Streets</a> and return responsibility for keeping the city’s streets clean to the Department of Public Works.&nbsp;<ul><li>The new agency was created by passage of Proposition B in 2020. Sponsored by former District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney, it won with 60% voter approval.</li><li>But the new agency saddled the city with higher costs according to budget analysts, with an estimated $7.2 million in mostly administrative expenses for the first year.&nbsp;</li><li>At a series of hearings this year, Public Works staff insisted that the creation of the new department would “<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/public-works-estimates-23m-increase-in-cleaning-costs-grapples-with-department-split/">not result in cleaner streets</a>.”&nbsp;</li><li>Haney, now a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/matt-haney-assembly-victory-rejects-housing-criticism/">state assemblymember</a>, has unsurprisingly opposed the plan to undo his work.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Another measure would change the schedule for certain elections in San Francisco so they would only be held in even-numbered years.<ul><li>Those elected as mayor, sheriff, district attorney, city attorney and treasurer in 2019 would serve an additional year before standing for election again in 2024. Thereafter, these elections would be held in even-numbered years along with the rest of the city’s elections and presidential elections.&nbsp;</li><li>Proponents, including chief sponsor District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston, claim consolidating the city’s elections would significantly improve voter turnout, citing a 2021 paper from the watchdog group <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=11036287&amp;GUID=67EFC2D7-9FF9-4E3F-BBC9-BF6FC7F1FE96">Common Cause</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Another provision would change the signature-gathering criteria for placing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/explainer-how-ballot-measures-are-made-in-san-francisco/">future initiatives on the ballot</a> on the ballot to 2% of registered voters, as opposed to the current standard of 5% of voter turnout in the last mayoral election.</li></ul></li></ul>

<ul><li>A measure, sponsored by District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin, to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/garbage-out-supervisors-seek-to-sweep-away-new-street-cleaning-department/">eliminate the newly created Department of Sanitation and Streets</a> and return responsibility for keeping the city’s streets clean to the Department of Public Works.&nbsp;<ul><li>The new agency was created by passage of Proposition B in 2020. Sponsored by former District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney, it won with 60% voter approval.</li><li>But the new agency saddled the city with higher costs according to budget analysts, with an estimated $7.2 million in mostly administrative expenses for the first year.&nbsp;</li><li>At a series of hearings this year, Public Works staff insisted that the creation of the new department would “<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/public-works-estimates-23m-increase-in-cleaning-costs-grapples-with-department-split/">not result in cleaner streets</a>.”&nbsp;</li><li>Haney, now a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/matt-haney-assembly-victory-rejects-housing-criticism/">state assemblymember</a>, has unsurprisingly opposed the plan to undo his work.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Another measure would change the schedule for certain elections in San Francisco so they would only be held in even-numbered years.<ul><li>Those elected as mayor, sheriff, district attorney, city attorney and treasurer in 2019 would serve an additional year before standing for election again in 2024. Thereafter, these elections would be held in even-numbered years along with the rest of the city’s elections and presidential elections.&nbsp;</li><li>Proponents, including chief sponsor District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston, claim consolidating the city’s elections would significantly improve voter turnout, citing a 2021 paper from the watchdog group <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&amp;ID=11036287&amp;GUID=67EFC2D7-9FF9-4E3F-BBC9-BF6FC7F1FE96">Common Cause</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Another provision would change the signature-gathering criteria for placing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/explainer-how-ballot-measures-are-made-in-san-francisco/">future initiatives on the ballot</a> on the ballot to 2% of registered voters, as opposed to the current standard of 5% of voter turnout in the last mayoral election.</li></ul></li></ul>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-lgbtq-oversight-of-cops">More LGBTQ Oversight of Cops</h2>

<h2 id="h-more-lgbtq-oversight-of-cops">More LGBTQ Oversight of Cops</h2>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 30: San Francisco policemen hold hands while walking during the San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration 2019 on June 30, 2019 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Arun Nevader/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/OfficersatPride_INLINED1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-51284"/><figcaption>San Francisco policemen hold hands while walking during the 2019 San Francisco Pride Parade. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

The board will also consider Mayor Breed’s nomination of Mission artist Debra Walker to the Police Commission. If confirmed, Walker will bring back representation from the city’s queer constituency to the commission, which lapsed when civil litigation lawyer Petra DeJesus resigned last year.&nbsp;

The board will also consider Mayor Breed’s nomination of Mission artist Debra Walker to the Police Commission. If confirmed, Walker will bring back representation from the city’s queer constituency to the commission, which lapsed when civil litigation lawyer Petra DeJesus resigned last year.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Walker is a Mission-based painter and printmaker who also has a long history of civic involvement. Most recently she served on the Arts Commission, and she also served as a tenant representative on the city’s Building Inspection Commission for several years.</li><li>Supervisor Chan objected to Walker’s nomination on the grounds that she lacks policy experience in criminal justice reform. The commission’s most recent appointees, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/battle-for-police-reform-to-reduce-racial-disparities-sfpd-may-ban-minor-traffic-stops/">Max Carter-Oberstone</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/reform-minded-attorney-john-hamasaki-sf-police-commission/">Kevin Benedicto</a>, are both civil litigators with backgrounds in pro bono work in criminal justice.&nbsp;</li><li>Despite Chan’s opposition, it’s likely that Walker will be confirmed by a majority of the board, according to a City Hall source.&nbsp;</li><li>Remaining members include vice president and former deputy public defender Cindy Elias; Jesus Yanez, a pre-trial release specialist with the SF Pretrial Diversion Project; immigration defense lawyer Jim Byrne; and Larry Yee, a former union officer and president of the Chinese Six Companies.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Walker is a Mission-based painter and printmaker who also has a long history of civic involvement. Most recently she served on the Arts Commission, and she also served as a tenant representative on the city’s Building Inspection Commission for several years.</li><li>Supervisor Chan objected to Walker’s nomination on the grounds that she lacks policy experience in criminal justice reform. The commission’s most recent appointees, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/battle-for-police-reform-to-reduce-racial-disparities-sfpd-may-ban-minor-traffic-stops/">Max Carter-Oberstone</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/reform-minded-attorney-john-hamasaki-sf-police-commission/">Kevin Benedicto</a>, are both civil litigators with backgrounds in pro bono work in criminal justice.&nbsp;</li><li>Despite Chan’s opposition, it’s likely that Walker will be confirmed by a majority of the board, according to a City Hall source.&nbsp;</li><li>Remaining members include vice president and former deputy public defender Cindy Elias; Jesus Yanez, a pre-trial release specialist with the SF Pretrial Diversion Project; immigration defense lawyer Jim Byrne; and Larry Yee, a former union officer and president of the Chinese Six Companies.</li></ul>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2550-irving-street-what-lies-beneath">2550 Irving Street: What Lies Beneath</h2>

<h2 id="h-2550-irving-street-what-lies-beneath">2550 Irving Street: What Lies Beneath</h2>

The site of the 2550 Irving development is a former San Francisco Police Credit Union Location.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Building-2-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-6042"/><figcaption>The site of the 2550 Irving development is a former San Francisco Police Credit Union Location. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Building-2-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-6042"/><figcaption>The site of the 2550 Irving development is a former San Francisco Police Credit Union Location. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

The board will also likely pass a resolution, sponsored primarily by District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar, urging state and local agencies to “provide a comprehensive, coordinated response” to toxic contamination at the 2500 block of Irving Street in the Inner Sunset. An affordable housing development, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/2550-irving-sunset-district-affordable-housing-gordon-mar/">which has proven controversial with neighbors</a>, is planned for the site.&nbsp;

The board will also likely pass a resolution, sponsored primarily by District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar, urging state and local agencies to “provide a comprehensive, coordinated response” to toxic contamination at the 2500 block of Irving Street in the Inner Sunset. An affordable housing development, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/2550-irving-sunset-district-affordable-housing-gordon-mar/">which has proven controversial with neighbors</a>, is planned for the site.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Citing inadequate outreach, the Mid-Sunset Neighborhood Association sued the&nbsp;Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation, developer of the planned 90-unit, seven-story building at 2550 Irving project. A request to halt the project was rejected by the presiding judge.</li><li>The discovery of residual deposits of&nbsp;perchloroethylene, or PCE, has complicated further negotiations over the project. The toxin was likely produced by a dry-cleaning business that formerly operated across the street from the site.&nbsp;</li><li>The Mid-Sunset Neighborhood Association has demanded that toxic residue around the site be cleaned up and that the project itself be scaled down. TNDC has signed an agreement with the&nbsp;California Department of Toxic Substances Control&nbsp;to work towards ameliorating the issue.&nbsp;</li><li>The issue also presents repercussions for&nbsp;Mar’s reelection in November,&nbsp;with one opponent, public safety advocate&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/board-of-supervisors/supervisor-mar-faces-stiff-re-election-fight-as-two-high-profile-challengers-step-up/">Leanna Louie</a>, voicing concerns about the project.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Citing inadequate outreach, the Mid-Sunset Neighborhood Association sued the&nbsp;Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation, developer of the planned 90-unit, seven-story building at 2550 Irving project. A request to halt the project was rejected by the presiding judge.</li><li>The discovery of residual deposits of&nbsp;perchloroethylene, or PCE, has complicated further negotiations over the project. The toxin was likely produced by a dry-cleaning business that formerly operated across the street from the site.&nbsp;</li><li>The Mid-Sunset Neighborhood Association has demanded that toxic residue around the site be cleaned up and that the project itself be scaled down. TNDC has signed an agreement with the&nbsp;California Department of Toxic Substances Control&nbsp;to work towards ameliorating the issue.&nbsp;</li><li>The issue also presents repercussions for&nbsp;Mar’s reelection in November,&nbsp;with one opponent, public safety advocate&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/board-of-supervisors/supervisor-mar-faces-stiff-re-election-fight-as-two-high-profile-challengers-step-up/">Leanna Louie</a>, voicing concerns about the project.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that a proposed ballot measure would change the criteria for the number of signatures required to get initiatives&nbsp;on the ballot, but does not necessarily lower it.&nbsp;

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that a proposed ballot measure would change the criteria for the number of signatures required to get initiatives&nbsp;on the ballot, but does not necessarily lower it.&nbsp;

Supervisors preview: Clearing the air over Sunset Housing, and packing the November ballot

This week’s Board of Supervisors featured compromises both elegant and ugly, as a deal was reached in a combative budget process and an extensively reworked housing development bill was finally passed.&nbsp;

This week’s Board of Supervisors featured compromises both elegant and ugly, as a deal was reached in a combative budget process and an extensively reworked housing development bill was finally passed.&nbsp;

The board also declared the June 7 election results final, paving the way for Mayor London Breed to appoint a replacement for recalled District Attorney Chesa Boudin.&nbsp;

The board also declared the June 7 election results final, paving the way for Mayor London Breed to appoint a replacement for recalled District Attorney Chesa Boudin.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-budget-deal-reached">Budget Deal Reached</h2>

<h2 id="h-budget-deal-reached">Budget Deal Reached</h2>

The meeting kicked off early as negotiations over the budget, which began on Monday, extended into the following morning. A quorum of the board approved a finalized budget,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/mayor-supes-agree-on-budget-that-preserves-police-and-downtown-funding-boosts-affordable-housing/"> based on a compromise between Mayor London Breed and the supervisors</a>, at a celebratory 12:30 a.m. Tuesday meeting.&nbsp;

The meeting kicked off early as negotiations over the budget, which began on Monday, extended into the following morning. A quorum of the board approved a finalized budget,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/mayor-supes-agree-on-budget-that-preserves-police-and-downtown-funding-boosts-affordable-housing/"> based on a compromise between Mayor London Breed and the supervisors</a>, at a celebratory 12:30 a.m. Tuesday meeting.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Budget chair and District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen described the process as “less contentious than previous years,” despite a series of confrontational hearings.</li><li>The compromise apparently has minimal impact on Mayor Breed’s favored programs, and restores some funding to neighborhood community hubs and other services championed by Ronen and other supervisors.&nbsp;</li><li>Additionally, another compromise over conflict between Breed and District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston over affordable housing financing appears to have been at least partially reached through a debt financing plan.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Budget chair and District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen described the process as “less contentious than previous years,” despite a series of confrontational hearings.</li><li>The compromise apparently has minimal impact on Mayor Breed’s favored programs, and restores some funding to neighborhood community hubs and other services championed by Ronen and other supervisors.&nbsp;</li><li>Additionally, another compromise over conflict between Breed and District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston over affordable housing financing appears to have been at least partially reached through a debt financing plan.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-housing-bills-weak-sausage">Housing Bills: Weak Sausage?&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 id="h-housing-bills-weak-sausage">Housing Bills: Weak Sausage?&nbsp;</h2>

Two controversial housing bills were finally passed by supervisors, providing a look at the current ideological divides over development policy at City Hall.&nbsp;

Two controversial housing bills were finally passed by supervisors, providing a look at the current ideological divides over development policy at City Hall.&nbsp;

The first, sponsored by District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin, bans “micro-unit” efficiency studios in the Tenderloin and Chinatown, to prevent gentrification of those neighborhoods’ stock of single-room occupancy hotels. The second bill, which will <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/a-fourplex-on-each-lot-in-debate-over-upzoning-sfs-westside-one-proposal-emerges-as-the-strongest/">legalize more dwelling units</a> in single-family neighborhoods, squeaked by with a 6-4 vote.&nbsp;

The first, sponsored by District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin, bans “micro-unit” efficiency studios in the Tenderloin and Chinatown, to prevent gentrification of those neighborhoods’ stock of single-room occupancy hotels. The second bill, which will <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/a-fourplex-on-each-lot-in-debate-over-upzoning-sfs-westside-one-proposal-emerges-as-the-strongest/">legalize more dwelling units</a> in single-family neighborhoods, squeaked by with a 6-4 vote.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>During discussion of the latter “fourplex” bill, the original sponsor, District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, described the almost year-long road the legislation took to finally get passed, as “beautiful and frustrating at the same time.” Despite the many amendments added in committee he continued to urge support, calling the legislation “a small, imperfect, positive step” that at least moves the city closer to building more housing in low-density neighborhoods. District 7 Supervisor and cosponsor Myrna Melgar noted the bill reflected “a halfway point between different perspectives on land-use.”&nbsp;</li><li>Others disagreed. District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai criticized the five-year hold on development for qualifying properties and continued environmental review requirements as poison pills that will make building more difficult. He and District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey described aspects of the legislation as a facile attempt to exempt the city from state density zoning laws. Dorsey warned that San Francisco would still face state sanctions for violating the laws, including loss of funding for transit and local planning control, which could disproportionately impact his district.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>During discussion of the latter “fourplex” bill, the original sponsor, District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, described the almost year-long road the legislation took to finally get passed, as “beautiful and frustrating at the same time.” Despite the many amendments added in committee he continued to urge support, calling the legislation “a small, imperfect, positive step” that at least moves the city closer to building more housing in low-density neighborhoods. District 7 Supervisor and cosponsor Myrna Melgar noted the bill reflected “a halfway point between different perspectives on land-use.”&nbsp;</li><li>Others disagreed. District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai criticized the five-year hold on development for qualifying properties and continued environmental review requirements as poison pills that will make building more difficult. He and District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey described aspects of the legislation as a facile attempt to exempt the city from state density zoning laws. Dorsey warned that San Francisco would still face state sanctions for violating the laws, including loss of funding for transit and local planning control, which could disproportionately impact his district.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Meanwhile, board president and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton opposed the bill for different reasons, saying it would encourage more property speculation and displacement in his district. District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani also voted against the bill.&nbsp;</li><li>Read more about this vote and its implications<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/fourplex-bill-passes-but-it-wont-create-much-more-housing/"> here</a>.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Meanwhile, board president and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton opposed the bill for different reasons, saying it would encourage more property speculation and displacement in his district. District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani also voted against the bill.&nbsp;</li><li>Read more about this vote and its implications<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/fourplex-bill-passes-but-it-wont-create-much-more-housing/"> here</a>.&nbsp;</li></ul>

The board did, as expected, authorize bond financing for three important affordable housing projects, including:&nbsp;

The board did, as expected, authorize bond financing for three important affordable housing projects, including:&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>730 Stanyan, which is planned as a 150-unit project to house moderate-income and formerly homeless families. Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation and the Chinatown Community Development Center are the city’s nonprofit partners on the project. Bond financing will be up to $130 million. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/preston-questions-housing-officials-on-730-stanyan-but-finds-limited-answers/">Interim uses for the site</a> have been the subject of squabbles between Supervisor Preston and Mayor Breed.&nbsp;</li><li>Sunnydale Block 3, which is part of the ongoing transformation of decades-old public housing in Visitacion Valley into a mixed-income community of up to 1,675 dwellings. Mercy Housing and Related California are developers. Block 3 will include 170 affordable homes, and this legislation is set to clear $74 million in bond financing for the project</li><li>$102 Million in bond financing is set for part of Balboa Reservoir, an 1,100-unit project planned since the 1960s and finally approved in 2020. Located next to the main City College campus, 150 of 550 affordable units will be set aside for faculty. Bridge Housing, Mission Housing Development Corporation and Avalon Bay Communities are among the developer partners.&nbsp;</li><li>The votes come at a time when the city’s housing pipeline is<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/despite-reforms-san-francisco-is-building-fewer-homes-now-than-before/"> slowing down</a>, and more proxy battles over housing policy are set for the<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/rent-control-on-new-units-sped-up-construction-and-new-housing-governance-at-city-hall-promised-by-supes-in-raft-of-fall-ballot-measures/"> November ballot</a>, which may feature competing proposals from the mayor and supervisors.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>730 Stanyan, which is planned as a 150-unit project to house moderate-income and formerly homeless families. Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation and the Chinatown Community Development Center are the city’s nonprofit partners on the project. Bond financing will be up to $130 million. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/preston-questions-housing-officials-on-730-stanyan-but-finds-limited-answers/">Interim uses for the site</a> have been the subject of squabbles between Supervisor Preston and Mayor Breed.&nbsp;</li><li>Sunnydale Block 3, which is part of the ongoing transformation of decades-old public housing in Visitacion Valley into a mixed-income community of up to 1,675 dwellings. Mercy Housing and Related California are developers. Block 3 will include 170 affordable homes, and this legislation is set to clear $74 million in bond financing for the project</li><li>$102 Million in bond financing is set for part of Balboa Reservoir, an 1,100-unit project planned since the 1960s and finally approved in 2020. Located next to the main City College campus, 150 of 550 affordable units will be set aside for faculty. Bridge Housing, Mission Housing Development Corporation and Avalon Bay Communities are among the developer partners.&nbsp;</li><li>The votes come at a time when the city’s housing pipeline is<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/despite-reforms-san-francisco-is-building-fewer-homes-now-than-before/"> slowing down</a>, and more proxy battles over housing policy are set for the<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/rent-control-on-new-units-sped-up-construction-and-new-housing-governance-at-city-hall-promised-by-supes-in-raft-of-fall-ballot-measures/"> November ballot</a>, which may feature competing proposals from the mayor and supervisors.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boosting-tourism">Boosting Tourism</h2>

<h2 id="h-boosting-tourism">Boosting Tourism</h2>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/INLINE-tourism-dev.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-57399"/><figcaption>Tourists wait in line for the famed cable car at Union Square in San Francisco, Calif. on May 23, 2022. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

In 2008, San Francisco established a Tourism Improvement District to tax hotels to upgrade Moscone Center and provide an operations funding stream for the Convention and Visitors Bureau (now known as the San Francisco Travel Association or SFTravel). This week, the board voted to renew and expand the district, approving a resolution by Peskin and Mandelman to hold an assessment hearing on Sept. 13.&nbsp;

In 2008, San Francisco established a Tourism Improvement District to tax hotels to upgrade Moscone Center and provide an operations funding stream for the Convention and Visitors Bureau (now known as the San Francisco Travel Association or SFTravel). This week, the board voted to renew and expand the district, approving a resolution by Peskin and Mandelman to hold an assessment hearing on Sept. 13.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The tax will increase by a quarter of a percent to create a fund for further promoting Moscone Center as a convention destination.&nbsp;</li><li>Prior to the pandemic, Moscone Center hosted dozens of large events annually and accounted for more than 20% of the city’s tourism industry.&nbsp;</li><li>Hotels in the outer neighborhoods, which are less likely to be used for downtown conventions, will continue to be assessed at a lower rate.&nbsp;</li><li>The assessment is also expanded to include short-term rentals such as Airbnb rentals.&nbsp;</li><li>The Covid-19 pandemic and resulting economic shocks hit San Francisco especially hard, but<a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/san-francisco-tourism-summer-season-hospitality-hotel/"> tourism appears to be recovering</a>. There were only five conventions booked for Moscone in 2021, while this year there are 34. But international tourism, the most lucrative, is still way down.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>The tax will increase by a quarter of a percent to create a fund for further promoting Moscone Center as a convention destination.&nbsp;</li><li>Prior to the pandemic, Moscone Center hosted dozens of large events annually and accounted for more than 20% of the city’s tourism industry.&nbsp;</li><li>Hotels in the outer neighborhoods, which are less likely to be used for downtown conventions, will continue to be assessed at a lower rate.&nbsp;</li><li>The assessment is also expanded to include short-term rentals such as Airbnb rentals.&nbsp;</li><li>The Covid-19 pandemic and resulting economic shocks hit San Francisco especially hard, but<a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/san-francisco-tourism-summer-season-hospitality-hotel/"> tourism appears to be recovering</a>. There were only five conventions booked for Moscone in 2021, while this year there are 34. But international tourism, the most lucrative, is still way down.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-roll-call-drug-crisis-and-monkeypox">Roll Call: Drug Crisis and Monkeypox</h2>

<h2 id="h-roll-call-drug-crisis-and-monkeypox">Roll Call: Drug Crisis and Monkeypox</h2>

New business introduced at Roll Call included items addressing the ongoing drug overdose crisis, foreclosures, regional transit, and monkeypox.&nbsp;

New business introduced at Roll Call included items addressing the ongoing drug overdose crisis, foreclosures, regional transit, and monkeypox.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Preston and Dorsey introduced hearing requests relevant to the drug overdose crisis. Preston’s would address next steps for the Tenderloin initiative, and concerns over the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/a-lifesaver-worries-uncertainty-surround-tenderloin-centers-closure/">impending closure of the Tenderloin Center</a> (neé Linkage Center). Dorsey’s hearing would assess the status of recommendations made by the Street Level Drug Dealing Task Force.&nbsp;</li><li>Safai introduced legislation mandating that homeowners facing foreclosure over property tax defaults be more quickly referred to the Mayor’s Office of Housing to take advantage of remediation help.&nbsp;</li><li>Walton introduced a resolution approving the new compromise MOU with other constituent agencies and counties over governance of the Caltrain Joint Powers Authority.&nbsp;</li><li>Mandelman requested a hearing to assess measures the Department of Public Health is taking against the spread of Monkeypox. So far, there are 10 cases of the disease in the city. The hearing will examine vaccination, testing and public education efforts to combat the disease.&nbsp;</li><li>District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced a resolution calling on local and state agencies to respond to the discovery of toxins in the 2500 block of Irving Street. A <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/2550-irving-sunset-district-affordable-housing-gordon-mar/">controversial affordable housing project</a> has been proposed for the block.&nbsp;</li><li>Melgar has called for an audit of the Ocean Avenue Association, a Community Benefit District serving the Ingleside-area corridor, citing concerns over recent leadership changes.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Preston and Dorsey introduced hearing requests relevant to the drug overdose crisis. Preston’s would address next steps for the Tenderloin initiative, and concerns over the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/a-lifesaver-worries-uncertainty-surround-tenderloin-centers-closure/">impending closure of the Tenderloin Center</a> (neé Linkage Center). Dorsey’s hearing would assess the status of recommendations made by the Street Level Drug Dealing Task Force.&nbsp;</li><li>Safai introduced legislation mandating that homeowners facing foreclosure over property tax defaults be more quickly referred to the Mayor’s Office of Housing to take advantage of remediation help.&nbsp;</li><li>Walton introduced a resolution approving the new compromise MOU with other constituent agencies and counties over governance of the Caltrain Joint Powers Authority.&nbsp;</li><li>Mandelman requested a hearing to assess measures the Department of Public Health is taking against the spread of Monkeypox. So far, there are 10 cases of the disease in the city. The hearing will examine vaccination, testing and public education efforts to combat the disease.&nbsp;</li><li>District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar introduced a resolution calling on local and state agencies to respond to the discovery of toxins in the 2500 block of Irving Street. A <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/2550-irving-sunset-district-affordable-housing-gordon-mar/">controversial affordable housing project</a> has been proposed for the block.&nbsp;</li><li>Melgar has called for an audit of the Ocean Avenue Association, a Community Benefit District serving the Ingleside-area corridor, citing concerns over recent leadership changes.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clock-starts-for-da-appointment">Clock Starts for DA Appointment</h2>

<h2 id="h-clock-starts-for-da-appointment">Clock Starts for DA Appointment</h2>

Finally, the board approved a resolution declaring the results of the June 7 election.&nbsp;

Finally, the board approved a resolution declaring the results of the June 7 election.&nbsp;

That election, which featured the recall of District Attorney<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/recall-election-sf-district-attorney-chesa-boudin/"> Chesa Boudin</a> as the main act, was certified by the Department of Elections on June 22.

That election, which featured the recall of District Attorney<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/recall-election-sf-district-attorney-chesa-boudin/"> Chesa Boudin</a> as the main act, was certified by the Department of Elections on June 22.

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The declaration clears the way for Mayor London Breed to appoint a replacement for Boudin. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/behind-the-scenes-mayor-london-breeds-appointment-da-chesa-boudin/">The mayor’s office has been interviewing possible candidates</a> since before the election. Likely candidates include District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani, Alameda County prosecutor Nancy Tung and Superior Court Judge Eric Fleming.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>The declaration clears the way for Mayor London Breed to appoint a replacement for Boudin. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/behind-the-scenes-mayor-london-breeds-appointment-da-chesa-boudin/">The mayor’s office has been interviewing possible candidates</a> since before the election. Likely candidates include District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani, Alameda County prosecutor Nancy Tung and Superior Court Judge Eric Fleming.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Supes roundup: Leaning into compromise on housing

David Sjostedt

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

The Board of Supervisors had a very full meeting on Election Day, with a long agenda punctuated by some necessary conversations over the direction of policies on public safety and homelessness, as well as fixing r<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/ethics-commission-delays-vote-on-new-anti-corruption-rules-as-city-officials-and-donation-recipients-worry-about-impact/">ecently passed ethics legislation</a>. Moreover, what looked to be an opening salvo in expected budget conflicts between Mayor London Breed and the board turned out to be a damp squib. (As always, wonks looking for the complete kit and caboodle can scrutinize this week’s very full agenda<a href="https://sfbos.org/event/2022/bag060722_agenda"> here</a>.)

The Board of Supervisors had a very full meeting on Election Day, with a long agenda punctuated by some necessary conversations over the direction of policies on public safety and homelessness, as well as fixing r<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/ethics-commission-delays-vote-on-new-anti-corruption-rules-as-city-officials-and-donation-recipients-worry-about-impact/">ecently passed ethics legislation</a>. Moreover, what looked to be an opening salvo in expected budget conflicts between Mayor London Breed and the board turned out to be a damp squib. (As always, wonks looking for the complete kit and caboodle can scrutinize this week’s very full agenda<a href="https://sfbos.org/event/2022/bag060722_agenda"> here</a>.)

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-police-incentive-pay-plan-cleared">Police Incentive Pay Plan Cleared</h2>

<h2 id="h-police-incentive-pay-plan-cleared">Police Incentive Pay Plan Cleared</h2>

Last Thursday, the board’s Government Audit and Oversight Committee referred a long list of &nbsp; labor agreements to the full board to be heard today. They’re part of the process to approve the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/budget/police-city-workers-small-businesses-get-a-boost-in-breeds-14b-budget-proposal/">significant pay raises and incentives for city workers</a> promised by Mayor Breed in the city’s new budget. But two amendments to the labor agreement with the Police Officers Association—which would restore wage increases originally due in 2020, and implement Breed’s planned <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/708m-for-sfpd-mayor-wants-to-boost-police-spending-to-hire-retain-more-officers/">raise in entry level pay and longevity bonuses for officers</a>—were sent without recommendation at the insistence of Committee Chair and District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston.&nbsp;

Last Thursday, the board’s Government Audit and Oversight Committee referred a long list of &nbsp; labor agreements to the full board to be heard today. They’re part of the process to approve the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/budget/police-city-workers-small-businesses-get-a-boost-in-breeds-14b-budget-proposal/">significant pay raises and incentives for city workers</a> promised by Mayor Breed in the city’s new budget. But two amendments to the labor agreement with the Police Officers Association—which would restore wage increases originally due in 2020, and implement Breed’s planned <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/708m-for-sfpd-mayor-wants-to-boost-police-spending-to-hire-retain-more-officers/">raise in entry level pay and longevity bonuses for officers</a>—were sent without recommendation at the insistence of Committee Chair and District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Preston reiterated remarks made in committee, deeming the amendments as lost opportunities for forcing the POA into concessions over reform. He cited multiple concerns, such as the police union’s opposition to abolishing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/battle-for-police-reform-to-reduce-racial-disparities-sfpd-may-ban-minor-traffic-stops/">“pretextual stops</a>,” in which motorists are stopped for minor offenses in order to investigate them for unrelated matters. Reform advocates maintain the tactic is disproportionately used against persons of color, and often leads to deadly force incidents that may otherwise be avoided. In other words, sending the items out without recommendation was intended to force a conversation on this issue.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Preston reiterated remarks made in committee, deeming the amendments as lost opportunities for forcing the POA into concessions over reform. He cited multiple concerns, such as the police union’s opposition to abolishing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/battle-for-police-reform-to-reduce-racial-disparities-sfpd-may-ban-minor-traffic-stops/">“pretextual stops</a>,” in which motorists are stopped for minor offenses in order to investigate them for unrelated matters. Reform advocates maintain the tactic is disproportionately used against persons of color, and often leads to deadly force incidents that may otherwise be avoided. In other words, sending the items out without recommendation was intended to force a conversation on this issue.&nbsp;

That conversation turned out to be one-sided as the POA agreement amendments ended up passing with the board unanimous in support after close to an hour of discussion.&nbsp;

That conversation turned out to be one-sided as the POA agreement amendments ended up passing with the board unanimous in support after close to an hour of discussion.&nbsp;

“This issue is bigger than the POA,” said Board President and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton, who expressed qualified support for the incentives.&nbsp;

“This issue is bigger than the POA,” said Board President and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton, who expressed qualified support for the incentives.&nbsp;

District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen related SFPD data on comparative regional pay for new officers, noting, “They’re right—we’re not competitive for starting salaries.” District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar also indicated her support for the incentives as the beginning of work toward cultural change in the department. New District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, a former SFPD spokesperson, related structural causes of the department&#8217;s staffing issues that the incentives were needed to remedy. “We’re facing a perfect storm of a national police staffing crisis” said Dorsey, describing a wave of retirements by Clinton Administration-funded police hires combined with a decline of interest in law enforcement careers.

District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen related SFPD data on comparative regional pay for new officers, noting, “They’re right—we’re not competitive for starting salaries.” District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar also indicated her support for the incentives as the beginning of work toward cultural change in the department. New District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, a former SFPD spokesperson, related structural causes of the department's staffing issues that the incentives were needed to remedy. “We’re facing a perfect storm of a national police staffing crisis” said Dorsey, describing a wave of retirements by Clinton Administration-funded police hires combined with a decline of interest in law enforcement careers.

District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen related SFPD data on comparative regional pay for new officers, noting, “They’re right—we’re not competitive for starting salaries.” District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar also indicated her support for the incentives as the beginning of work toward cultural change in the department. New District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey, a former SFPD spokesperson, related structural causes of the department&#8217;s staffing issues that the incentives were needed to remedy. “We’re facing a perfect storm of a national police staffing crisis” said Dorsey, describing a wave of retirements by Clinton Administration-funded police hires combined with a decline of interest in law enforcement careers.

Meanwhile, legislation by District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar requiring district police stations to develop individual plans for “community policing”—which is to say, policies toward better neighborhood partnerships in solving problems, such as nuisance crimes and quality-of-life issues—passed unanimously and without discussion. Strategies mentioned in the legislation include more foot and bike patrols, as well as a community feedback process. The plans would be publicly released and updated annually.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, legislation by District 4 Supervisor Gordon Mar requiring district police stations to develop individual plans for “community policing”—which is to say, policies toward better neighborhood partnerships in solving problems, such as nuisance crimes and quality-of-life issues—passed unanimously and without discussion. Strategies mentioned in the legislation include more foot and bike patrols, as well as a community feedback process. The plans would be publicly released and updated annually.&nbsp;

A Forced Pivot Toward Shelter in Homelessness Policy

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-forced-pivot-toward-shelter-in-homelessness-policy">A Forced Pivot Toward Shelter in Homelessness Policy</h2>

<h2 id="h-a-forced-pivot-toward-shelter-in-homelessness-policy">A Forced Pivot Toward Shelter in Homelessness Policy</h2>

The Board unanimously passed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/mandelman-proposes-shelter-for-all-but-execution-is-an-uphill-battle/">legislation by District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman</a> that would require the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing to submit a plan for implementing a program to provide “enough shelters, permanent supportive housing units, and safe overnight parking lots as are necessary” to shelter all persons currently experiencing homelessness in the city. In discussion, supervisors described a difficult amendment process for the legislation, which endured multiple amendments in committee.&nbsp;

The Board unanimously passed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/mandelman-proposes-shelter-for-all-but-execution-is-an-uphill-battle/">legislation by District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman</a> that would require the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing to submit a plan for implementing a program to provide “enough shelters, permanent supportive housing units, and safe overnight parking lots as are necessary” to shelter all persons currently experiencing homelessness in the city. In discussion, supervisors described a difficult amendment process for the legislation, which endured multiple amendments in committee.&nbsp;

Mandelman began the discussion by noting the tension between differing philosophies on responding to homelessness. One side hopes to offer shelter as soon as possible, while another faction looks toward permanent supportive housing.&nbsp;

Mandelman began the discussion by noting the tension between differing philosophies on responding to homelessness. One side hopes to offer shelter as soon as possible, while another faction looks toward permanent supportive housing.&nbsp;

“We have so few exits from the streets,” he said. “We all need a push toward a more humane imperative of offering exits from the street and improving street conditions.”&nbsp;

“We have so few exits from the streets,” he said. “We all need a push toward a more humane imperative of offering exits from the street and improving street conditions.”&nbsp;

Others, while supporting the final legislation, were more pessimistic. Ronen commented, “I’m voting for this believing it will do nothing,” citing multiple challenges ranging from costs to lack of community support, for identifying and procuring shelter sites. Meanwhile, Ronen also said that “we are never going to be able to build enough permanent supportive housing for people from the region without federal help.” She noted the current situation in her district caused by uncontrolled encampments. Walton noted what he deemed important changes, such as the provision mandating “geographic equity,” citing the high number of shelter and triage centers in his district.

Others, while supporting the final legislation, were more pessimistic. Ronen commented, “I’m voting for this believing it will do nothing,” citing multiple challenges ranging from costs to lack of community support, for identifying and procuring shelter sites. Meanwhile, Ronen also said that “we are never going to be able to build enough permanent supportive housing for people from the region without federal help.” She noted the current situation in her district caused by uncontrolled encampments. Walton noted what he deemed important changes, such as the provision mandating “geographic equity,” citing the high number of shelter and triage centers in his district.

In a similar vein, the Board supported a resolution in support of a slew of bills sponsored by State Senator Susan Eggman that would reform California’s conservatorship laws. Mandelman, who sponsored the resolution, described the legislative package as “restoring a floor which people cannot sink below … Leaving folks to die in the street because we want to protect their rights is a terrible misapplication of existing legal protections.” It passed 8-3, with Walton, Preston and District 4 Supervisor Connie Chan opposed.&nbsp;

In a similar vein, the Board supported a resolution in support of a slew of bills sponsored by State Senator Susan Eggman that would reform California’s conservatorship laws. Mandelman, who sponsored the resolution, described the legislative package as “restoring a floor which people cannot sink below … Leaving folks to die in the street because we want to protect their rights is a terrible misapplication of existing legal protections.” It passed 8-3, with Walton, Preston and District 4 Supervisor Connie Chan opposed.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethics-law-in-need-of-a-fix">Ethics Law in Need of a Fix</h2>

<h2 id="h-ethics-law-in-need-of-a-fix">Ethics Law in Need of a Fix</h2>

During Roll Call, District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin and District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai announced the introduction of trailing legislation to fix issues with an ordinance that restricts “behested payments,” a situation where elected or appointed officials solicit donations for a preferred charity, often a nonprofit partner in a city program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During Roll Call, District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin and District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai announced the introduction of trailing legislation to fix issues with an ordinance that restricts “behested payments,” a situation where elected or appointed officials solicit donations for a preferred charity, often a nonprofit partner in a city program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The fix is meant to combat corruption, but critics allege that it may stifle legitimate donations as well. Last month, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/this-reform-measure-aims-to-weed-out-corruption-so-why-do-some-sf-lawmakers-oppose-it/">confusion over provisions of the ordinance</a> came to a head when the director of the Department of Children, Youth and Their Families disseminated a memorandum to program partners that she could no longer solicit private donations for summer programs supporting needy children.

The fix is meant to combat corruption, but critics allege that it may stifle legitimate donations as well. Last month, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/this-reform-measure-aims-to-weed-out-corruption-so-why-do-some-sf-lawmakers-oppose-it/">confusion over provisions of the ordinance</a> came to a head when the director of the Department of Children, Youth and Their Families disseminated a memorandum to program partners that she could no longer solicit private donations for summer programs supporting needy children.

The confusion manifested itself at Tuesday’s meeting when Peskin quizzed a staffer from the Recreation and Parks Department over an item on funding restoration of the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park involving a grant from the San Francisco Parks Alliance. The discussion prompted Ronen to declare that the legislation “had turned into a nightmare” and that a protocol was needed for what she called a “fact-intensive process” where checking the relationships involved with donors and grant applicants was beyond the capacity of her role as Budget Chair.&nbsp;

The confusion manifested itself at Tuesday’s meeting when Peskin quizzed a staffer from the Recreation and Parks Department over an item on funding restoration of the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park involving a grant from the San Francisco Parks Alliance. The discussion prompted Ronen to declare that the legislation “had turned into a nightmare” and that a protocol was needed for what she called a “fact-intensive process” where checking the relationships involved with donors and grant applicants was beyond the capacity of her role as Budget Chair.&nbsp;

As it happens, voters on Tuesday weighed Proposition E, a ballot measure that would further reform the behested payments process, with Mayor Breed and a number of Supervisors opposing it.&nbsp;

As it happens, voters on Tuesday weighed Proposition E, a ballot measure that would further reform the behested payments process, with Mayor Breed and a number of Supervisors opposing it.&nbsp;

Supervisors’ roundup: Bonuses for cops, homeless policy pivot and behested payments

You're invited to an exclusive, hands-on cocktail class at Lower Nob Hill’s stylish DACHA, where you’ll shake, stir, sip, and show off.

Summer Cocktail Class

Join researcher and nonprofit director Bill Delzell for a private reception exploring a time capsule that still feels relevant today.

In the early 1980s, a Bay Area picker stumbled upon something incredible: a plastic garbage bag filled with 2,042 processed 35mm color slides and 102 rolls of carefully labeled black-and-white film. The images — all 8,417 of them — captured a seminal moment in San Francisco counterculture, from 1966 through the 1967 Summer of Love to 1970.

The photographer remains unknown, and most of the photos have gone unseen — until now.

Join researcher and nonprofit director Bill Delzell for a private reception exploring a time capsule that still feels relevant today. Based on a story by San Francisco Standard culture reporter Sam Mondros.

Find/Seek: Stories and Photos from San Francisco's Past
Tuesday, May 20
6pm-8:30pm
Four One Nine
419 Tenth Street
San Francisco

Complimentary wine and bites. 
Invitation only for guests 21 and over.

Search Results for: ahsha safaí

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