Mike Ege

Two of the Bay Area’s most powerful construction-worker unions are at bitter odds amid a push to extend state housing mandates. One side is branded as sellouts; the other is accused of pulling up the ladder.

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<p>Two of the Bay Area’s most powerful construction-worker unions are at bitter odds amid a push to extend state housing mandates. One side is branded as sellouts; the other is accused of pulling up the ladder.</p>

Mirroring disagreements <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/08/22/labor-unions-have-a-week-to-agree-on-state-housing-bills-can-they-do-it/">at the state level</a>, the local labor fight centers on a new housing bill and spilled out into the open this week as labor leaders took swings on Twitter over language in the bill related to work requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Labor unions have a week to agree on state housing bills. Can they do it?

<p>Mirroring disagreements <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/08/22/labor-unions-have-a-week-to-agree-on-state-housing-bills-can-they-do-it/">at the state level</a>, the local labor fight centers on a new housing bill and spilled out into the open this week as labor leaders took swings on Twitter over language in the bill related to work requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/lorenasgonzalez/status/1628577459854802947?s=46&amp;t=zu43xWvtACVT1DzRaswySQ
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Please tell me the last time a bill that red-lined labor standards out of existing law was passed in California? Well, Scott Weiner &amp; Buffy Wicks apparently think it’s time to try. Why? Because they want developers to be more incentivized to build market rate housing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SB423?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SB423</a></p>&mdash; Lorena Gonzalez (@LorenaSGonzalez) <a href="https://twitter.com/LorenaSGonzalez/status/1628577459854802947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Last week, state Sen. <a href="mailto:scott.wiener@yahoo.com">Scott Wiener</a> (D-San Francisco) introduced Senate Bill 423, legislation that would make permanent SB 35, which requires an expedited process for housing projects in counties that fail to meet production quotas. It’s supported by the Housing Action Coalition and other pro-housing supply groups.

<p>Last week, state Sen. <a href="mailto:scott.wiener@yahoo.com">Scott Wiener</a> (D-San Francisco) introduced Senate Bill 423, legislation that would make permanent SB 35, which requires an expedited process for housing projects in counties that fail to meet production quotas. It’s supported by the Housing Action Coalition and other pro-housing supply groups.</p>

The bill is also backed by the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, a regional body representing 22 individual unions and over 36,000 members—<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/sb35-new-housing-law-17777302.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">many of whom surrounded Wiener at a Feb. 13 presser announcing the bill</a>.

<p>The bill is also backed by the Nor Cal Carpenters Union, a regional body representing 22 individual unions and over 36,000 members—<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/sb35-new-housing-law-17777302.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">many of whom surrounded Wiener at a Feb. 13 presser announcing the bill</a>.</p>

But among those who offered a Bronx Cheer for the bill was Wiener’s former colleague and fellow Democrat, Lorena Gonzalez-Fletcher.

<p>But among those who offered a Bronx Cheer for the bill was Wiener’s former colleague and fellow Democrat, Lorena Gonzalez-Fletcher.</p>

The former San Diego assemblymember, now a leader at the California Labor Federation, threw shade on Wiener and co-sponsor Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) accusing them of “redlining” labor standards out of the bill.&nbsp;

<p>The former San Diego assemblymember, now a leader at the California Labor Federation, threw shade on Wiener and co-sponsor Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) accusing them of “redlining” labor standards out of the bill.&nbsp;</p>

Nor Cal Carpenters Union organizer Mitchell Vinciguerra shot back at Gonzalez-Fletcher, along with Wiener himself, who only a week earlier had touted his legislative report card from the labor federation. Another influential labor group, the California Building Trades Council, piled on to the scrum.

<p>Nor Cal Carpenters Union organizer Mitchell Vinciguerra shot back at Gonzalez-Fletcher, along with Wiener himself, who only a week earlier had touted his legislative report card from the labor federation. Another influential labor group, the California Building Trades Council, piled on to the scrum.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/CA_Bldg_Trades/status/1623489658654191617
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We need Legislators who fight to create pathways to union careers.<br><br>Embracing tactics like ‘raising wages’ for unrepresented workers, instead of incentivizing union membership, is NOT how we rebuild the middle class.<br><br>Remember:<br><br>Joining a union &gt; Raising Wages<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/skilledandtrained?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#skilledandtrained</a> <a href="https://t.co/1DYYvAeibY">https://t.co/1DYYvAeibY</a></p>&mdash; California Building Trades Council (@CA_Bldg_Trades) <a href="https://twitter.com/CA_Bldg_Trades/status/1623489658654191617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Twitter skirmish is one front of an ongoing rift between construction-worker unions over state housing policy. It’s a battle over not just housing policy, but differing interests and visions over which generation of workers should be represented first.

<p>The Twitter skirmish is one front of an ongoing rift between construction-worker unions over state housing policy. It’s a battle over not just housing policy, but differing interests and visions over which generation of workers should be represented first.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-political-alliances"><strong>Political Alliances</strong></h2>


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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-political-alliances"><strong>Political Alliances</strong></h2>

That rift manifests itself in political alliances over housing development.

<p>That rift manifests itself in political alliances over housing development.</p>

The Nor Cal Carpenters&#8217; Union recently joined the Bay Area Council—a business-heavy group that has driven regional governance and development for almost 80 years. The carpenters are the group’s only labor-based member.

<p>The Nor Cal Carpenters' Union recently joined the Bay Area Council—a business-heavy group that has driven regional governance and development for almost 80 years. The carpenters are the group’s only labor-based member.</p>

<p>The Nor Cal Carpenters&#8217; Union recently joined the Bay Area Council—a business-heavy group that has driven regional governance and development for almost 80 years. The carpenters are the group’s only labor-based member.</p>

“The council and the carpenters both want to see a lot more housing in the Bay Area,” said Rufus Jeffris, a spokesperson for the Bay Area Council. “We’re excited they’re at the table on housing issues.”

<p>“The council and the carpenters both want to see a lot more housing in the Bay Area,” said Rufus Jeffris, a spokesperson for the Bay Area Council. “We’re excited they’re at the table on housing issues.”</p>

Jay Bradshaw, executive secretary-treasurer for the carpenters, likewise called it a “natural fit.”

<p>Jay Bradshaw, executive secretary-treasurer for the carpenters, likewise called it a “natural fit.”</p>

Jay Bradshaw, the director of organizing for the Northern California Carpenters, on Sept. 11, 2017. | Michael Macor/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1666" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/INLINED_0222HousingLaborSchism-2500x1666.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-130031"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jay Bradshaw, the director of organizing for the Nor Cal Carpenters Union | Michael Macor/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/INLINED_0222HousingLaborSchism-2500x1666.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-130031"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jay Bradshaw, the director of organizing for the Nor Cal Carpenters Union | Michael Macor/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

“We are both fighting for new and affordable housing to ensure California continues to provide good jobs, smart infrastructure and remain a competitive world-class economy,” Bradshaw said.

<p>“We are both fighting for new and affordable housing to ensure California continues to provide good jobs, smart infrastructure and remain a competitive world-class economy,” Bradshaw said.</p>

It’s the latest turn in a political split that’s been simmering since at least last year, when the carpenters and the California Building Trades Council took opposing positions over Propositions D and E, two competing ballot measures that both failed.

<p>It’s the latest turn in a political split that’s been simmering since at least last year, when the carpenters and the California Building Trades Council took opposing positions over Propositions D and E, two competing ballot measures that both failed.</p>

Both measures promised to boost production of affordable housing, but differed in the fine print.&nbsp;

<p>Both measures promised to boost production of affordable housing, but differed in the fine print.&nbsp;</p>

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/local-unions-lock-horns-over-competing-housing-measures/">Prop. E had more requirements that benefited the California Building Trades Council</a>, such as specifying what wages would be paid and who would be able to get jobs working on certain projects. The Building Trades and its member unions plowed more than $300,000 into <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/this-is-whos-spending-money-on-sf-housing-propositions/">Prop. E’s campaign</a>.

<p><a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/local-unions-lock-horns-over-competing-housing-measures/">Prop. E had more requirements that benefited the California Building Trades Council</a>, such as specifying what wages would be paid and who would be able to get jobs working on certain projects. The Building Trades and its member unions plowed more than $300,000 into <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/this-is-whos-spending-money-on-sf-housing-propositions/">Prop. E’s campaign</a>. </p>

&#8216;<strong>Skilled and Trained</strong>&#8216;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;<strong>Skilled and Trained</strong>&#8216;</h2>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">'<strong>Skilled and Trained</strong>'</h2>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;<strong>Skilled and Trained</strong>&#8216;</h2>

If there’s one phrase that embodies the sticking point between the two union groups on housing policy—whether at the state or local level—it’s “skilled and trained.”

<p>If there’s one phrase that embodies the sticking point between the two union groups on housing policy—whether at the state or local level—it’s “skilled and trained.”</p>

“Skilled and trained”—which generally means workers who undergo apprenticeship programs organized by the the California Building Trades Council—is the operative phrase that can determine who gets what jobs in construction projects.

<p>“Skilled and trained”—which generally means workers who undergo apprenticeship programs organized by the the California Building Trades Council—is the operative phrase that can determine who gets what jobs in construction projects. </p>

&#8220;Non-union apprenticeship programs utilize apprentices much differently than we do. Their graduation percentages lag ours significantly,&#8221; said State Building and Construction Trades Council President Andrew Meredith in a statement. &#8220;Bills like SB 423 or AB 2011 play to the model of not actually graduating apprentices, instead utilizing them primarily as lower wage workers who are less likely to reach journey-person status in their respective trade.&#8221;

<p>"Non-union apprenticeship programs utilize apprentices much differently than we do. Their graduation percentages lag ours significantly," said State Building and Construction Trades Council President Andrew Meredith in a statement. "Bills like SB 423 or AB 2011 play to the model of not actually graduating apprentices, instead utilizing them primarily as lower wage workers who are less likely to reach journey-person status in their respective trade." </p>

<p>&#8220;Non-union apprenticeship programs utilize apprentices much differently than we do. Their graduation percentages lag ours significantly,&#8221; said State Building and Construction Trades Council President Andrew Meredith in a statement. &#8220;Bills like SB 423 or AB 2011 play to the model of not actually graduating apprentices, instead utilizing them primarily as lower wage workers who are less likely to reach journey-person status in their respective trade.&#8221; </p>

Meanwhile, the carpenters have signed on to policies with less stringent labor stipulations. While the group advocates for prevailing wages and other worker benefits, its larger objective on housing is to increase the number of union workers on projects. That requires more projects.&nbsp;

<p>Meanwhile, the carpenters have signed on to policies with less stringent labor stipulations. While the group advocates for prevailing wages and other worker benefits, its larger objective on housing is to increase the number of union workers on projects. That requires more projects.&nbsp;</p>

“We believe ‘a rising tide raises all ships,'&#8221; Bradshaw said. &#8220;We are fighting for, and winning, battles to create new union jobs as well as raise up nonunion workers by ensuring prevailing wages, health care benefits and safe workplaces.”

<p>“We believe ‘a rising tide raises all ships,'" Bradshaw said. "We are fighting for, and winning, battles to create new union jobs as well as raise up nonunion workers by ensuring prevailing wages, health care benefits and safe workplaces.”</p>

<p>“We believe ‘a rising tide raises all ships,'&#8221; Bradshaw said. &#8220;We are fighting for, and winning, battles to create new union jobs as well as raise up nonunion workers by ensuring prevailing wages, health care benefits and safe workplaces.”</p>

Wiener, who has authored legislation with skilled workforce requirements in the past, also pointed to the bigger picture.

<p>Wiener, who has authored legislation with skilled workforce requirements in the past, also pointed to the bigger picture.</p>

“We also have to look at the residential construction workforce. Ninety percent of them are not unionized,” Wiener said. “My hope is at some point they’ll all be unionized and this debate will be moot. As we support efforts to organize; let’s make sure both union and nonunion workers are being paid for their value. That’s what this language does.”

<p>“We also have to look at the residential construction workforce. Ninety percent of them are not unionized,” Wiener said. “My hope is at some point they’ll all be unionized and this debate will be moot. As we support efforts to organize; let’s make sure both union and nonunion workers are being paid for their value. That’s what this language does.”</p>

Bay Area labor schism boils over as unions spar over state housing bill

Michael Barba

San Francisco police on Monday released video footage and described the disturbing events that led officers to shoot and kill a man earlier this month after he walked into the airport carrying a knife and two airsoft guns in an apparent mental health crisis.

<p>San Francisco police on Monday released video footage and described the disturbing events that led officers to shoot and kill a man earlier this month after he walked into the airport carrying a knife and two airsoft guns in an apparent mental health crisis.</p>

Nelson Szeto, 37, was shot and killed by police early Jan. 20 during a standoff with officers at San Francisco International Airport. Police released numerous videos from the shooting Monday during a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtFfsd-vwZ0">virtual town hall meeting.</a>

<p>Nelson Szeto, 37, was shot and killed by police early Jan. 20 during a standoff with officers at San Francisco International Airport. Police released numerous videos from the shooting Monday during a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtFfsd-vwZ0">virtual town hall meeting.</a></p>

The videos show a hostage negotiator and officers pleading with Szeto to put down his weapons before police opened fire with rifles. While officers on scene seemed to think the guns were real, authorities later determined that his pistols were actually airsoft guns.

<p>The videos show a hostage negotiator and officers pleading with Szeto to put down his weapons before police opened fire with rifles. While officers on scene seemed to think the guns were real, authorities later determined that his pistols were actually airsoft guns.</p>

Police Cmdr. Paul Yep, who detailed the shooting at the meeting, said Szeto asked officers to shoot him and told them, &#8220;Make sure to aim.”

<p>Police Cmdr. Paul Yep, who detailed the shooting at the meeting, said Szeto asked officers to shoot him and told them, "Make sure to aim.”</p>

<p>Police Cmdr. Paul Yep, who detailed the shooting at the meeting, said Szeto asked officers to shoot him and told them, &#8220;Make sure to aim.”</p>

The shooting happened after 911 callers reported a suspicious man across from the BART Station at the international terminal at around 7:26 a.m.

<p>The shooting happened after 911 callers reported a suspicious man across from the BART Station at the international terminal at around 7:26 a.m.</p>

The video footage shows Szeto was carrying a knife in one hand and an airsoft gun in the other when an officer first approached him. He later pulls out a second airsoft gun from his jacket and begins pacing back and forth with fake firearms in his hands.

<p>The video footage shows Szeto was carrying a knife in one hand and an airsoft gun in the other when an officer first approached him. He later pulls out a second airsoft gun from his jacket and begins pacing back and forth with fake firearms in his hands.</p>

“We don’t want something tragic to happen,” a police negotiator later tells him. “You’re a nice guy. Put that gun down and let’s talk about this.”

<p>“We don’t want something tragic to happen,” a police negotiator later tells him. “You’re a nice guy. Put that gun down and let’s talk about this.”</p>

The videos show one officer shot Szeto in the leg with a less-lethal projectile, leading Szeto to lift his left arm with the airsoft gun in his hand. An officer fires two shots at him, causing Szeto to fall to the ground.

<p>The videos show one officer shot Szeto in the leg with a less-lethal projectile, leading Szeto to lift his left arm with the airsoft gun in his hand. An officer fires two shots at him, causing Szeto to fall to the ground.</p>

Officers then order Szeto to “put the gun down,” but he appears to begin to raise his other arm when police release a barrage of bullets at him.

<p>Officers then order Szeto to “put the gun down,” but he appears to begin to raise his other arm when police release a barrage of bullets at him.</p>

<p>Szeto was pronounced dead at the scene.</p>

Cmdr. Yep identified the officers who opened fire as Erik Whitney, Oliver Lim, Steven Uang and David Wakayama.

<p>Cmdr. Yep identified the officers who opened fire as Erik Whitney, Oliver Lim, Steven Uang and David Wakayama.</p>

The incident is being investigated by multiple agencies, including the California Department of Justice, which is required to investigate all deadly police shootings of unarmed civilians under a new law from July 2021. An airsoft gun is not considered a deadly weapon under the law.

<p>The incident is being investigated by multiple agencies, including the California Department of Justice, which is required to investigate all deadly police shootings of unarmed civilians under a new law from July 2021. An airsoft gun is not considered a deadly weapon under the law.</p>

John Crew, a retired ACLU attorney and longtime critic of the department, called into the meeting to question whether police should have used a bean-bag gun against Szeto. He said the use of such weapons could unnecessarily escalate situations rather than de-escalate them.

<p>John Crew, a retired ACLU attorney and longtime critic of the department, called into the meeting to question whether police should have used a bean-bag gun against Szeto. He said the use of such weapons could unnecessarily escalate situations rather than de-escalate them.</p>

“The department knows that people in mental health crisis, using that gun is not always going to work,” Crew said.

<p>“The department knows that people in mental health crisis, using that gun is not always going to work,” Crew said.</p>

While the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office initially investigated the case because the airport is within its jurisdiction, the California Department of Justice took over the probe after it was confirmed that Szeto was armed with airsoft guns rather than real guns.

<p>While the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office initially investigated the case because the airport is within its jurisdiction, the California Department of Justice took over the probe after it was confirmed that Szeto was armed with airsoft guns rather than real guns.</p>

At Monday’s meeting, Police Chief Bill Scott said his department <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/sf-police-shooting-airport-guns/">still could not say whether the guns were real</a> because other agencies quickly took over the case.

<p>At Monday’s meeting, Police Chief Bill Scott said his department <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/sf-police-shooting-airport-guns/">still could not say whether the guns were real</a> because other agencies quickly took over the case.</p>

“The San Francisco Police Department did not have control over any of the evidence, nor does it to this day,” Scott said. “We cannot put out information that we cannot confirm, and at the time of the incident, we could not confirm what type of weapon that was.”

<p>“The San Francisco Police Department did not have control over any of the evidence, nor does it to this day,” Scott said. “We cannot put out information that we cannot confirm, and at the time of the incident, we could not confirm what type of weapon that was.”</p>

Body camera footage shows police shoot man to death in tense standoff at SFO

This week the Board of Supervisors blocked Amazon’s Potrero Hill delivery hub, weighed in on ongoing police reforms and tried to define the line between caricature and stereotype in political speech. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/event/2022/ba032222_agenda">complete agenda</a>.)

<p>This week the Board of Supervisors blocked Amazon’s Potrero Hill delivery hub, weighed in on ongoing police reforms and tried to define the line between caricature and stereotype in political speech. (As always, wonks looking for the full kit and caboodle can check out the meeting’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/event/2022/ba032222_agenda">complete agenda</a>.)</p>

<strong>Amazon: On Hold, For Now</strong>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-on-hold-for-now"><strong>Amazon: On Hold, For Now</strong></h2>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-amazon-on-hold-for-now"><strong>Amazon: On Hold, For Now</strong></h2>

Supervisors passed temporary zoning controls that amount to an 18-month moratorium on development of Amazon’s last-mile delivery center project at 900 7th St. According to proponents, including sponsor and Board President Shamann Walton, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/amazon-project-could-face-delay-as-supervisor-walton-seeks-zoning-controls/">the pause</a> will give the Planning Department time to study better ways to zone package delivery service uses, and by extension, the entire project. (Walton also represents District 10, where the site is located.) In reaction to the vote, Amazon has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/amazon-soma-san-francisco-zoning-labor/">halted the project</a>.&nbsp;

<p>Supervisors passed temporary zoning controls that amount to an 18-month moratorium on development of Amazon’s last-mile delivery center project at 900 7th St. According to proponents, including sponsor and Board President Shamann Walton, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/amazon-project-could-face-delay-as-supervisor-walton-seeks-zoning-controls/">the pause</a> will give the Planning Department time to study better ways to zone package delivery service uses, and by extension, the entire project. (Walton also represents District 10, where the site is located.) In reaction to the vote, Amazon has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/amazon-soma-san-francisco-zoning-labor/">halted the project</a>.&nbsp;</p>

The chain of public- and private-sector maneuvers leading to this juncture perfectly exemplifies the paradoxes of development in San Francisco. Originally owned by Recology, the city’s longtime trash hauler sold the site to Amazon after a plan to develop it as housing was blocked at City Hall. Neighborhood activists claimed that condos would force out locally owned production, distribution and repair (PDR) businesses—and the working class jobs they create.&nbsp;

<p>The chain of public- and private-sector maneuvers leading to this juncture perfectly exemplifies the paradoxes of development in San Francisco. Originally owned by Recology, the city’s longtime trash hauler sold the site to Amazon after a plan to develop it as housing was blocked at City Hall. Neighborhood activists claimed that condos would force out locally owned production, distribution and repair (PDR) businesses—and the working class jobs they create.&nbsp;</p>

A SoMa resident jogs past the old Recology center on Jan. 31, 2022. | Camille Cohen


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/amazon_reco-4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-43159"/><figcaption><em>A jogger passes the planned Amazon site on Jan. 31, 2022. | Camille Cohen</em></figcaption></figure>


Meanwhile, Amazon leveraged the area’s existing PDR zoning for their plan, which could create up to 500 jobs. The delivery center still faces neighborhood opposition due to the scale of potential activity at the 725,000 square foot site, compared with neighboring light industrial and educational uses.

<p>Meanwhile, Amazon leveraged the area’s existing PDR zoning for their plan, which could create up to 500 jobs. The delivery center still faces neighborhood opposition due to the scale of potential activity at the 725,000 square foot site, compared with neighboring light industrial and educational uses.</p>

A bigger issue is Amazon’s labor practices. The company is famously anti-union, although Mayor London Breed hopes the project could provide an <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/union-amazon-shop-sf-mayor-breed-broad-support-private-meeting/">opportunity for change</a> on that front. Some supervisors have also criticized what they see as <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/amazon-in-sf-city-quietly-agreed-to-help-on-proposed-delivery-hub-raising-hackles-over-back-room-dealing/">under-the-radar</a> aspects of negotiations, as well as a possible <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/london-breed-appointee-potential-conflict-interest-amazon-project/">conflict-of-interest</a> on the part of a mayoral staffer.&nbsp;

<p>A bigger issue is Amazon’s labor practices. The company is famously anti-union, although Mayor London Breed hopes the project could provide an <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/union-amazon-shop-sf-mayor-breed-broad-support-private-meeting/">opportunity for change</a> on that front. Some supervisors have also criticized what they see as <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/amazon-in-sf-city-quietly-agreed-to-help-on-proposed-delivery-hub-raising-hackles-over-back-room-dealing/">under-the-radar</a> aspects of negotiations, as well as a possible <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/london-breed-appointee-potential-conflict-interest-amazon-project/">conflict-of-interest</a> on the part of a mayoral staffer.&nbsp;</p>

The legislation passed unanimously by a vote of 10-1. Supervisor Aaron Peskin recused himself from the vote due to his ownership of Amazon stock.&nbsp;

<p>The legislation passed unanimously by a vote of 10-1. Supervisor Aaron Peskin recused himself from the vote due to his ownership of Amazon stock.&nbsp;</p>

<strong>Questioning Police Reform</strong>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading"><strong>Questioning Police Reform</strong></h2>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Questioning Police Reform</strong></h2>

The board then held a fifth hearing on the Collaborative Reform Initiative between the San Francisco Police Department and the California Department of Justice, focusing on use-of-force, institutional bias, community policing, public accountability and hiring.&nbsp;

<p>The board then held a fifth hearing on the Collaborative Reform Initiative between the San Francisco Police Department and the California Department of Justice, focusing on use-of-force, institutional bias, community policing, public accountability and hiring.&nbsp;</p>

According to a Feb. 11 letter to Chief of Police Bill Scott from the Attorney General’s office, SFPD is now in compliance with 90% of the initiative’s recommendations—having increased the pace of reform. In a presentation to the board, Chief Scott assured the supervisors that the SFPD continues to make incremental reform through efforts such as audits and training designed to identify and root out unconscious bias, partnerships with academic institutions, and a proposed plan to reduce traffic stops, which studies suggest impact residents of color at a higher rate than white San Franciscans.&nbsp;

<p>According to a Feb. 11 letter to Chief of Police Bill Scott from the Attorney General’s office, SFPD is now in compliance with 90% of the initiative’s recommendations—having increased the pace of reform. In a presentation to the board, Chief Scott assured the supervisors that the SFPD continues to make incremental reform through efforts such as audits and training designed to identify and root out unconscious bias, partnerships with academic institutions, and a proposed plan to reduce traffic stops, which studies suggest impact residents of color at a higher rate than white San Franciscans.&nbsp;</p>

Scott described reduced statistical bias in actions such as stops and searches, along with a 59% reduction in use of force since 2015. However, African Americans continue to be disproportionately impacted by police actions. Overall, the force is recruiting fewer white and Black officers and more Asian and Latinx officers.&nbsp;

<p>Scott described reduced statistical bias in actions such as stops and searches, along with a 59% reduction in use of force since 2015. However, African Americans continue to be disproportionately impacted by police actions. Overall, the force is recruiting fewer white and Black officers and more Asian and Latinx officers.&nbsp;</p>

That said, recruiting is more difficult, and the staff shortage is growing—the department is short by at least 500 officers. Asked about improving community policing efforts, Chief Scott noted the importance of solving this issue.&nbsp;

<p>That said, recruiting is more difficult, and the staff shortage is growing—the department is short by at least 500 officers. Asked about improving community policing efforts, Chief Scott noted the importance of solving this issue.&nbsp;</p>

SFPD Chief Scott speaks on police response to the rise in AAPI hate crimes on Jan. 25, 2022. | Camille Cohen


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AAPI-11-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-38383"/><figcaption><em>SFPD Chief Scott speaks on police response to the rise in AAPI hate crimes on Jan. 25, 2022. | Camille Cohen</em></figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AAPI-11-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-38383"/><figcaption><em>SFPD Chief Scott speaks on police response to the rise in AAPI hate crimes on Jan. 25, 2022. | Camille Cohen</em></figcaption></figure>

“You need time [and personnel] for building intentional relationships,” Scott said.&nbsp;

<p>“You need time [and personnel] for building intentional relationships,” Scott said.&nbsp;</p>

As in previous hearings, the incremental progress failed to impress some supervisors.&nbsp;

<p>As in previous hearings, the incremental progress failed to impress some supervisors.&nbsp;</p>

Board President Walton remarked that continued statistical bias against African Americans continues to stand out as an indicator of “a long way to go for reform” and “continuing devastating effects for Black folks.” Supervisor Hillary Ronen noted continued exclusionary practices such as “quality of car” and jaywalking stops.&nbsp;

<p>Board President Walton remarked that continued statistical bias against African Americans continues to stand out as an indicator of “a long way to go for reform” and “continuing devastating effects for Black folks.” Supervisor Hillary Ronen noted continued exclusionary practices such as “quality of car” and jaywalking stops.&nbsp;</p>

Supervisor Dean Preston questioned whether hiring more police would make the city safer. “Rather than reflexively call for more officers, we should look at this critically,” said Preston.&nbsp;

<p>Supervisor Dean Preston questioned whether hiring more police would make the city safer. “Rather than reflexively call for more officers, we should look at this critically,” said Preston.&nbsp;</p>

<strong>Provocative Posters, Redux</strong>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading"><strong>Provocative Posters, Redux</strong></h2>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Provocative Posters, Redux</strong></h2>

Supervisors also weighed in on recent controversial political posters, including those supporting the recall of District Attorney Chesa Boudin.&nbsp;

<p>Supervisors also weighed in on recent controversial political posters, including those supporting the recall of District Attorney Chesa Boudin.&nbsp;</p>

A non-binding resolution, which passed unanimously, condemned political graphics featuring imagery from historical Communist propaganda, as “racial campaign antics.”&nbsp;

<p>A non-binding resolution, which passed unanimously, condemned political graphics featuring imagery from historical Communist propaganda, as “racial campaign antics.”&nbsp;</p>

Similar posters were directed in earlier campaign seasons at Supervisor Connie Chan as well as her predecessor, Sandra Lee Fewer, both Asian women. The anonymous disseminator <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/sf-supervisors-set-to-condemn-racial-campaign-tactics-but-theyre-curiously-silent-on-da-chesa-boudin/">remains unrepentant</a>.&nbsp;

<p>Similar posters were directed in earlier campaign seasons at Supervisor Connie Chan as well as her predecessor, Sandra Lee Fewer, both Asian women. The anonymous disseminator <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall/sf-supervisors-set-to-condemn-racial-campaign-tactics-but-theyre-curiously-silent-on-da-chesa-boudin/">remains unrepentant</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<strong>New Business: A Moonshot on Homelessness</strong>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading"><strong>New Business: A Moonshot on Homelessness</strong></h2>


<h2 class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>New Business: A Moonshot on Homelessness</strong></h2>

At Roll Call, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced legislation setting the stage for what would appear to be <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/amazon-soma-san-francisco-zoning-labor/">a very tall order</a>—expanding the level of shelter services to all people experiencing homelessness who are willing to accept it. As of the last official comprehensive count in 2019, San Francisco had around 8,000 estimated residents experiencing homelessness, 5,000 of whom were thought to be living in shelters.&nbsp;

<p>At Roll Call, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman introduced legislation setting the stage for what would appear to be <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/amazon-soma-san-francisco-zoning-labor/">a very tall order</a>—expanding the level of shelter services to all people experiencing homelessness who are willing to accept it. As of the last official comprehensive count in 2019, San Francisco had around 8,000 estimated residents experiencing homelessness, 5,000 of whom were thought to be living in shelters.&nbsp;</p>

The legislation would compel the Director of Real Estate to survey available real property for use as shelters, safe sleeping sites, or tiny home complexes. The Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing would then draft and submit to the board an implementation plan for converting said property to those uses, including cost and use estimates. DHSH would also be required to provide a publicly accessible dashboard for the program.&nbsp;

<p>The legislation would compel the Director of Real Estate to survey available real property for use as shelters, safe sleeping sites, or tiny home complexes. The Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing would then draft and submit to the board an implementation plan for converting said property to those uses, including cost and use estimates. DHSH would also be required to provide a publicly accessible dashboard for the program.&nbsp;</p>

Also announced was a letter of inquiry from Preston over the use of public funds by city press offices, including at the mayor’s office and police department, to disseminate what he deemed “copaganda.”&nbsp;

<p>Also announced was a letter of inquiry from Preston over the use of public funds by city press offices, including at the mayor’s office and police department, to disseminate what he deemed “copaganda.”&nbsp;</p>

In a copy of the letter forwarded to the Standard by his office, Preston wrote: “My office is concerned with recent taxpayer-funded messaging that promotes increased policing, minimizes continued racial disparities in local policing, and sanitizes or minimizes police violence.”&nbsp;

<p>In a copy of the letter forwarded to the Standard by his office, Preston wrote: “My office is concerned with recent taxpayer-funded messaging that promotes increased policing, minimizes continued racial disparities in local policing, and sanitizes or minimizes police violence.”&nbsp;</p>

Finally, Supervisor Matt Haney introduced a resolution welcoming refugees from the war in Ukraine to San Francisco. Quoting United Nations officials, Haney urged the city to take measures to respond to “the fastest-moving refugee crisis since World War II.”

<p>Finally, Supervisor Matt Haney introduced a resolution welcoming refugees from the war in Ukraine to San Francisco. Quoting United Nations officials, Haney urged the city to take measures to respond to “the fastest-moving refugee crisis since World War II.”</p>

Haney is running for the recently vacated 17th Assembly District seat against former Supervisor David Campos, who recently drew <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/gross-san-franciscans-react-to-campos-comparison-to-ukrainians/">the ire of many</a> when he compared his campaign to the plight of the Ukrainian people.&nbsp;

<p>Haney is running for the recently vacated 17th Assembly District seat against former Supervisor David Campos, who recently drew <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/gross-san-franciscans-react-to-campos-comparison-to-ukrainians/">the ire of many</a> when he compared his campaign to the plight of the Ukrainian people.&nbsp;</p>

Board of Supes in 4 mins: Slowing Amazon’s roll, questioning police reform, housing for all?

Josh Koehn

Rep. Nancy Pelosi served as the strongest Democratic foil to President Donald Trump the last time he occupied the White House, besting him at times with panache.

<p>Rep. Nancy Pelosi served as the strongest Democratic foil to President Donald Trump the last time he occupied the White House, besting him at times with panache.</p>

There was the contentious Oval Office meeting in 2018 when Pelosi strutted away in a brick-red coat and sunglasses after scolding Trump not to underestimate her powers as speaker of the House. After ending the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, Pelosi offered Trump a condescending mini-clap during his State of the Union speech in 2019. The San Francisco representative went a step further during the 2020 speech, ripping up Trump’s printed remarks just weeks after getting him impeached.

<p>There was the contentious Oval Office meeting in 2018 when Pelosi strutted away in a brick-red coat and sunglasses after scolding Trump not to underestimate her powers as speaker of the House. After ending the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, Pelosi offered Trump a condescending mini-clap during his State of the Union speech in 2019. The San Francisco representative went a step further during the 2020 speech, ripping up Trump’s printed remarks just weeks after getting him impeached.</p>

<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/17/us/politics/nancy-pelosi-photos.html">Camera-ready moments</a> such as these served to galvanize Democrats and deflate Trump, whose first term was dogged by policy bungles, palace intrigue, and personal scandals.&nbsp;

<p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/17/us/politics/nancy-pelosi-photos.html">Camera-ready moments</a> such as these served to galvanize Democrats and deflate Trump, whose first term was dogged by policy bungles, palace intrigue, and personal scandals.&nbsp;</p>

Emboldened by a Congress and Supreme Court dominated by conservatives, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/28/san-francisco-donald-trump-federal-funding-pause/">Trump in his second term has launched a blitzkrieg approach</a> to dismantling federal institutions. The newly formed Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, led by billionaire Elon Musk and a handful of angry nerds, is threatening to slash billions in foreign aid and domestic programs as tens of thousands of federal workers are told to take a hike.

Trump cuts could be ‘catastrophic’ for San Francisco, says city attorney

<p>Emboldened by a Congress and Supreme Court dominated by conservatives, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/28/san-francisco-donald-trump-federal-funding-pause/">Trump in his second term has launched a blitzkrieg approach</a> to dismantling federal institutions. The newly formed Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, led by billionaire Elon Musk and a handful of angry nerds, is threatening to slash billions in foreign aid and domestic programs as tens of thousands of federal workers are told to take a hike.</p>

San Francisco political observers are increasingly wondering whether Pelosi — who at age 84 has receded from leadership and now goes by the title speaker emerita — is meeting the moment. The most accomplished woman in the history of U.S. politics has been conspicuously missing in action over the last month, calling to mind the gradual <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/09/dianne-feinstein-hospitalized-fall-san-francisco-home/">public decline of the late U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein</a>.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein hospitalized after fall in San Francisco home

<p>San Francisco political observers are increasingly wondering whether Pelosi — who at age 84 has receded from leadership and now goes by the title speaker emerita — is meeting the moment. The most accomplished woman in the history of U.S. politics has been conspicuously missing in action over the last month, calling to mind the gradual <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/09/dianne-feinstein-hospitalized-fall-san-francisco-home/">public decline of the late U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein</a>.</p>

‘Illegal and authoritarian’: San Francisco to sue Trump over immigration crackdown

sf-standard/related-post

Trans people flood Pelosi’s office with passport issues as Trump order causes travel chaos

AOC’s former aide challenges Nancy Pelosi for Congress

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Political insiders in the city have expressed confusion over why Pelosi chose to remain in office for a 20th term if she is not interested in more aggressively taking up the fight against Trump and Musk.

<p>Political insiders in the city have expressed confusion over why Pelosi chose to remain in office for a 20th term if she is not interested in more aggressively taking up the fight against Trump and Musk.</p>

In just the past two weeks, Trump has taken significant steps to freeze government spending, threaten tariffs on allies, and slash funding for nongovernmental organizations and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. A judge temporarily froze some of Trump’s orders amid concerns over the effects of disrupting programs such as Medicaid, student loans, and SNAP food aid.

<p>In just the past two weeks, Trump has taken significant steps to freeze government spending, threaten tariffs on allies, and slash funding for nongovernmental organizations and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. A judge temporarily froze some of Trump’s orders amid concerns over the effects of disrupting programs such as Medicaid, student loans, and SNAP food aid.</p>

Yet the sum of Pelosi’s response since Trump’s inauguration seems to have been a tele-town hall where she expressed &#8220;grave concern&#8221; over his “hostile takeover” of the government and a data-protection bill that will likely go nowhere.

<p>Yet the sum of Pelosi’s response since Trump’s inauguration seems to have been a tele-town hall where she expressed "grave concern" over his “hostile takeover” of the government and a data-protection bill that will likely go nowhere.</p>

<p>Yet the sum of Pelosi’s response since Trump’s inauguration seems to have been a tele-town hall where she expressed &#8220;grave concern&#8221; over his “hostile takeover” of the government and a data-protection bill that will likely go nowhere.</p>

President Donald Trump delivers his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2020, as Speaker Nancy Pelosi looks on.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1666" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ap20036138153606.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person in a suit with a red tie is in the foreground, looking pleased. Behind them, another person in a white outfit is seated, with a serious expression. An American flag hangs in the background." class="wp-image-365447"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">President Donald Trump has taken a far more aggressive approach to governing in his second term, while Pelosi has mostly remained quiet.</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ap20036138153606.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person in a suit with a red tie is in the foreground, looking pleased. Behind them, another person in a white outfit is seated, with a serious expression. An American flag hangs in the background." class="wp-image-365447"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">President Donald Trump has taken a far more aggressive approach to governing in his second term, while Pelosi has mostly remained quiet.</figcaption></figure>

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Bay Area labor schism boils over as unions spar over state housing bill

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Nancy Pelosi, once Trump’s biggest foe, fades from the limelight

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