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Share your feedback regarding MUNI service cuts.

Based on community feedback, we now have a proposal to reduce Muni service beginning this summer to minimize impact to our ridership. Learn more about this proposal on the summer 2025 Muni service cuts webpage.

What’s in the proposal 

Our proposal aims to take advantage of areas with abundant transit service to help address our funding shortfall. We propose to connect existing service coverage and frequency to these transit-rich areas. This saves resources that currently provide duplicate service. Learn more at our summer 2025 Muni service cuts webpage.

What’s next 

We plan to present this service cuts proposal to the SFMTA Board for their consideration at the Tuesday, March 18 meeting, with a tentative follow-up meeting to take place on Tuesday, April 1 at 1 p.m. To provide feedback, you can attend the meetings in-person or share your feedback before the meeting by sending an email to MTABoard@SFMTA.com and cc MuniCuts@SFMTA.com. Comments can also be left at 415.646.2005. Comments must be received by 12 p.m. the day before the meetings to ensure your comment is received by the Board in advance of the meeting.

For more information and free language assistance at the meeting with 48 hours’ notice, you can call 415.646.2005 or email MuniCuts@SFMTA.com.

Previous approaches 

In February, we shared that we will likely have to cut Muni service this summer due to our budget constraints. This is because of a $50 million budget shortfall facing the SFMTA in our July 2025 to July 2026 budget.  

We sought feedback on three possible approaches to cutting service based on different goals: 

  • Preserving high ridership routes 

  • Maintaining all existing connections, or 

  • Preserving service on routes in neighborhoods identified by our Muni Service Equity Strategy 

What we heard 

Since then, we’ve received feedback from thousands of community members. We collected feedback through: 

  • Tabling at busy Muni stops 

  • Presenting at SFMTA Board and community meetings 

  • Emails to MuniCuts@SFMTA.com 

  • Phone calls and voicemails at 415.646.2005 

  • Responses to an online multilingual feedback form 

Overwhelmingly, the feedback we heard was to not cut Muni service. There was not consensus on whether to prioritize maintaining frequency or maintaining connections. We know these are difficult choices. We appreciate your help as we work to reduce the impacts of possible service cuts.  

To review our proposal and share your thoughts, you can visit the summer 2025 Muni Service Cuts webpage. 

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District 5 Newsletter

Dear Neighbor,

I firmly believe that City Hall should work for the people and that as an elected official, it is my duty to do all I can to bring our government into the 21st century and make it run smarter to better serve you.

That’s why I am introducing legislation today to tackle cumbersome bureaucracy that prevents key departments from accessing data and information subscriptions that benefit their work. With co-sponsorship from Board President Mandelman and support from the City Attorney, City Administrator, Assessor-Recorder, Treasurer, and City Librarian, the legislation peels back unnecessary approval layers and lengthy procedures that have delayed city departments from securing the essential, digital subscriptions needed to ensure city operations run smoothly.

This legislation provides simple software access for city departments and empowers them to save time, access more vendors, and ultimately serve San Franciscans better. The code this legislation is amending was written in the ‘90s when physical book manuals were in vogue. As a result, certain departments like the Treasurer and Assessor Recorder are delayed for months every year in purchasing the software they need, while others like the City Librarian have had to provide outdated paper manuals instead of digital content subscriptions. 

The current contracting bureaucracy is so cumbersome for vendors that some tech companies won’t even bother selling their product to the City, putting our government at a very serious disadvantage — this legislation is simply table stakes if we want to bring our city government into the 21st century.

And this is just the beginning. With a new administration in City Hall, we are making strides to improve government efficiency, modernize archaic code and foster collaborative, forward–thinking solutions.  

In service,

Supervisor Bilal Mahmood

This week, I had the honor of congratulating Mr. Green Chang and Mrs. Angie Noh on the opening night of their new restaurant, Irodori, a Japanese/Korean fusion restaurant. 

This new venture is a testament to not only their success as a couple, but as business partners who continue to cultivate joy and community in our neighborhoods. In fact, Mr. Chang is known locally as the “Happiest Man in Japantown” and I certainly agree! If you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to check them out.

I had the honor of joining residents at the Cadillac Hotel to celebrate Black History Month with a meal. It was a pleasure connecting with residents and staff alike, thank you for the warm welcome!

The Cadillac Hotel is a Curry Senior Center, which provides wrap-around services for residents, including mental health and substance abuse support.

Japan is hosting the 2025 World Expo but if you can’t make it across the Pacific, don’t worry! Japanteena in Japan Center Malls is hosting a Pop-up Experience to bring the Expo to SF. This year’s theme is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives."

It was wonderful to participate in the ribbon cutting for this Pop-up. Thank you to the Consulate of Japan, the Japantown Cultural District, Japan Center East and West Mall, and Japan Center Garages for organizing this Osaka Expo!  Stop by the weekend of February 28-March 2, March 8-9 and March 15-16 for a cultural experience.

This weekend, I joined the Alamo Square Neighborhood Association and SF Recreation & Parks for volunteer gardening at Alamo Square Park, where we pulled weeds and added mulch to the landscaping.  

These gardening sessions are scheduled for every first Saturday of the month, be sure to join the next one!

On Saturday, March 8, the annual Arbor Day Fair and monthly Love Our City: Neighborhood Beautification Day volunteer event are planned for District 5 with the kickoff location starting at Civic Center Secondary School yard (650 McAllister St). 

Neighborhood Beautification Day is formerly known as Community Clean Team Day — SF Public Works’ longest running volunteer program which had been placed on hold due to the COVID19 pandemic. This year, the revamped program is back for a 4th year with more of the rewarding “civic pride satisfaction” to benefit all communities throughout the district!

The Goal: Plant 100 trees throughout District 5 (and District 6), turning the Tenderloin into the first fully street-tree stocked district in the City’s history.

Volunteer to join the effort: D5 Neighborhood Beautification Day sign up

SFPUC crews are making nighttime water system improvements on Oak Street between Webster and Buchanan streets. There may be noticeable noise, vibration, dust, parking and traffic impacts in the work zone. 
 
When: Weekdays February 24 – March 7, 2025*; 8pm - 6am

SF Shines

SF Shines Grant Program is back! The program provides funds to help businesses with interior improvements and equipment purchases.

Get up to $10,000 in reimbursements for interior upgrades for your storefront.

Apply for a small business improvement grant through SF Shines here: sf.gov/apply-reimbursement-your-small-business-storefront


Green Infrastructure Grant Program

SFPUC Green Infrastructure Grant Program (GISP) is now open!

In the Fall 2024 cycle, the SFPUC awarded two new green infrastructure projects in San Francisco. The GIGP is now accepting applications for the Spring 2025 cycle! Eligible projects can receive up to $2.5M in funding per project. Applications are due Monday, June 2, 2025.

Sign up for a grant workshop on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 12-1 PM for an overview of the program and information on how to apply. Staff will facilitate a Q&A session to answer questions from prospective applicants. 
 
Additionally, prepare for the Spring 2025 application by scheduling a site visit with the SFPUC’s Technical Assistance team by contacting gigrants@sfwater.org. Schedule your site visits with the SFPUC team as soon as possible—don't wait for the workshop! 

Mercy Housing Waitlist

I am excited to share that Mercy Housing has officially opened the waitlist for Mercy Family Plaza, a newly renovated affordable housing complex in District 5, located near the historic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. This is a great opportunity for families and individuals seeking quality, low-income housing in a vibrant community.

Key Details:
Application Period: February 27 – March 30, 2025 (Deadline: 5:00 p.m.)
Location: 333 Baker Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
Apply Through DAHLIA: housing.sfgov.org
Virtual Lottery Date: April 2, 2025 (Results posted by April 9, 2025)
Available Units: Studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom apartments

Open House: Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Stop by  333 Baker Street to tour the property and learn more.

Eligibility & Rent Information

  • Preference is given to applicants with a Certificate of Preference (COP), Displaced Tenant Housing Preference (DTHP), and those who live or work in San Francisco.

  • Veterans receive priority within each preference category.

  • Income limits apply (see full details on DAHLIA).

Apartment Features & Amenities:
On-site parking (limited)
Community room & on-site resident services
Laundry facilities
Steps from Target, Lucky’s, and restaurants
Close to Alamo Square, Buena Vista Park, and public transit

This is a significant opportunity to secure affordable housing in the heart of San Francisco.

For full details, visit housing.sfgov.org.

Exciting news! San Francisco is taking a significant step toward safer streets with the introduction of speed safety cameras. These cameras will enforce the posted speed limit and help prevent traffic-related fatalities, creating safer and more livable communities for everyone. 
 
Here’s what you need to know: 

Timeline: Cameras were installed throughout January and February, with testing and activation scheduled for March 2025. 

Where:

  • Two-way speed camera on Geary Blvd (Webster to Buchanan St), enforcing 30 MPH posted speed limit  

  • Two-way speed camera on Turk St (Van Ness Ave to Polk St), enforcing 20 MPH posted speed limit 

How They Help: By encouraging drivers to slow down, these cameras will make high-traffic and high-risk areas safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers. 

Community Impact: This initiative focuses on protecting our most vulnerable road users while promoting equitable safety measures across the city. 
 
If you have questions or would like to learn more about the program, visit  SFMTA.com/SpeedCameras. Let’s work together to make San Francisco’s streets safer for all residents and visitors.

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District 8 February 2025 Newsletter

Greetings District 8 Neighbors!

Over a month into my term as President of the Board of Supervisors, I am enjoying working together with Mayor Lurie, my new colleagues on the Board, and of course with my returning colleagues as well. There appears to be lots of opportunities for collaboration across the branches of local government to address some of our most pressing challenges.

Please see below for updates on what we’ve been up to, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office. You can always reach us at mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org and (415) 554-6968, or you can stop by to visit us in our new office, Room 268 of City Hall.

See you in the District!

Rafael

MEET YOUR SUPERVISOR: OFFICE HOURS

VIRTUAL OFFICE HOURS: Join me online Saturday, March 8th from 10am-12pm. Reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to secure a spot.

IN-PERSON OFFICE HOURS: Come meet me in Duboce Triangle on Saturday, March 22nd, from 10AM-12PM! Reserve a spot by emailing mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org.

LAST CHANCE TO APPLY FOR THE GLEN PARK ASSOCIATION GRANTS PROGRAM!
 
The Glen Park Association is offering grants! Learn more here: https://www.glenparkassociation.org/grants/ 

  • Deadline: Feb 28 

  • Grants are open with a maximum award value of $1,500.

Grants are for the following:

  1. To promote the collective interests of the San Francisco neighborhood known as Glen Park, and to provide its residents with a more forceful collective voice;

  2. To inform the public of matters concerning the Glen Park neighborhood;

  3. To promote sociability and friendship among Glen Park and other neighborhoods throughout the city;

  4. To initiate and/or support local beneficial projects.

 APPLY FOR THE SF SHINES SMALL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT GRANT!

 The Office of Economic & Workforce Development is offering small business grants! Learn more here: https://www.sf.gov/apply-reimbursement-your-small-business-storefront

  • The program opens February 28, 2025 at 12:00PM

  • This grant offers up to $10,000 in reimbursements to support small businesses with interior upgrades


SF Public Utilities Commission Green Infrastructure Grant Program
 
The GIGP funds the design and construction of green stormwater infrastructure on large properties and in the public realm. Last year's featured grantee was Everett Middle School whose new green schoolyard project is set to capture stormwater runoff from over 83,000 feet of impervious surface while providing benefits to the entire school community. Projects must capture stormwater runoff from at least 0.5 acres of impervious surface and can receive up to $2.5M per project.

The GIGP is now accepting applications for the Spring 2025 cycle! Applications are due Monday, June 2, 2025.

Sign up for the grant workshop on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 12-1 PM for an overview of the program and information on how to apply. Staff will facilitate a Q&A session to answer questions from prospective applicants. 

 Additionally, prepare for the Spring 2025 application by scheduling a site visit with the SFPUC’s Technical Assistance team by contacting gigrants@sfwater.org. Schedule your site visits with our team as soon as possible—don't wait for the workshop! 

UPCOMING NOE VALLEY TOWN SQUARE EVENTS

Tuesday, March 25th, 3-7pm: Noe Valley Night Market. Learn more at noemerchants.com.

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!

District 8 is home to many active neighborhood groups that organize events for the community, lead projects to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful, and connect neighbors with City leaders to advocate for neighborhood priorities. Join an association or go to an upcoming local event - it’s a great way to get involved, make new friends, and change your community for the better!
Learn more about how to get involved in your neighborhood here!

  • Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association: Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month from 7:00 – 8:00 pm, in the Ballroom of the Harvey Milk Recreation Center for the Arts, lobby level, and preceded by a community social from 6:30 – 7:00 pm.

  • Dolores Heights Improvement Club: Green Gardens group holds monthly clean-ups on the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 – 10:30 am. DHIC Board meets on the second Monday of every other month. Meetings are held via Zoom from 7pm – 8pm. Email info@doloresheights.org to obtain the Zoom meeting link.

  • Upper Noe Neighbors meets every other month on the third Wednesday at the Upper Noe Recreation Center.

  • Bernal Cut Project has monthly work days along the east and west sides of San Jose Ave, join the newsletter to find out what's going on and to plant, weed or mulch.

  • Castro Art Mart is a monthly street fair on Noe Street between Market and Beaver the first Sunday of every month from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, featuring LGBTQ art from local artists, live music, comedy and drag shows, and more.

  • Castro Art Walk is a monthly community-driven event where local businesses host special events to share art with the neighborhood! Check out their website to learn which businesses are participating and head out to the Castro each month on the first Friday, from 5-8pm!

  • Noe Valley Town Square hosts regular events such as Acoustic Sunday, Rhythm and Motion dance, and Free Sunday Morning Yoga.

Don’t see your neighborhood group but want your information added to our newsletter? Email Melanie Mathewson melanie.mathewson@sfgov.org
 

SFPD STATION CAPTAINS’ MEETINGS

Curious about safety in your neighborhood or have questions for SFPD? Attending your Station Captains’ Meetings is a great way to learn about what’s going on. Captains’ Meetings are at the following times:

  • Park Station (1899 Waller): Fourth Wednesdays at 5PM on Zoom

    • Neighborhoods: Cole Valley, Duboce Triangle, and Twin Peaks

  • Mission Station (630 Valencia): Last Tuesdays at 5PM at Mission Station

    • Neighborhoods: Castro, Mission Dolores, and Noe Valley

  • Ingleside Station (1 Sgt. John V. Young): Third Tuesdays at 6PM at Ingleside Station

    • Neighborhoods: Diamond Heights and Glen Park

Had a great time at Alice B. Toklas’s February Membership Meeting discussing how we can improve city government and deliver results for San Francisco. Grateful for the conversation and those who came with thoughtful questions—excited for what’s ahead!

On February 1, we hosted office hours at Wooden Coffee House in Cole Valley!

On January 30, we hosted an art show in our new office, curated by the brilliant James Abbati! “Showcase” will be on display until April 30 – come by anytime to see some incredible art from 15 talented Bay Area artists.

Happy Year of the Snake! On January 29, I joined the SF Chinese Chamber of Commerce for the Lunar New Year Opening Ceremony at Portsmouth Square.

On January 25, I got to celebrate the new SF State’s new Science and Engineering Innovation Center alongside my former colleague Assemblywoman Catherine Stefani and SF State President Lynn Mahoney.

On January 18, San Franciscans took to the streets to support our immigrant communities and commit to keeping our families safe and united.

On January 5th, I joined then Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie, Supervisor Dorsey and Supervisor Fielder for the District 6, 8 and 9 stop on Mayor Lurie's weekend of service heading into Inauguration festivities. 

Business Entrance Accessibility Law, Never Enforced, Expected to Be Scrapped

SF Public Press, February 25th 

"Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman argued that enforcement at this point would direct significant city staffing and resources toward going after small businesses already struggling to comply."

“At least some of these businesses and property owners are, frankly, extremely sympathetic cases,” Mandelman said during a Land Use and Transportation Committee hearing."

S.F. could make it easier for small businesses to bid on city contracts

SF Chronicle, February 25th 

“San Francisco officials want to streamline the city’s notoriously byzantine contracting process to make it faster and more efficient and open the doors to more small businesses currently shut out of bidding for work."

Interview: Board President Rafael Mandelman says ‘vibes are very different’ from Breed years

Mission Local, February 19th 

“In a sit-down interview with Mission Local earlier this month, Mandelman, who represents Noe Valley, the Castro, Diamond Heights, Glen Park, Mission Dolores and Cole Valley, didn’t label himself a progressive or moderate, and said he is ready to start working across the board with new colleagues at City Hall.”

SF’s Centrist Powerbroker Makes His Entrance

Politico, February 11th 

“The most important thing for a prominent blue city like San Francisco to do is to show that a city like San Francisco can be run effectively. If we do that, and we become a place where red America visits or looks at us and thinks, like, ‘Wow, they really got it going on,’ then we will have done a lot for the cause.”

Lurie’s Fentanyl Response Clears San Francisco Board of Supervisors

KQED, February 5

“I’m happy to support the result — a package of sensible reforms to streamline the City’s response to the crisis on our streets that also preserves an oversight role for the Board,” board President Rafael Mandelman, who co-sponsored the legislation, said in a statement. “I look forward to working with Mayor Lurie and his team to advance policies that will support recovery in San Francisco and reclaim our public spaces for use by all members of the public.”

Castro set to join other SF areas with an entertainment zone

Bay Area Reporter, February 5

"During COVID, San Francisco, like many cities, had to get creative in allowing more commercial activity outdoors," Mandelman stated. "This was done out of necessity, but people also liked it."

Mandelman noted, "The annual Castro Street Fair and recently-established Castro night markets are examples of events that could benefit from the establishment of an entertainment zone, and could, in turn, benefit local bars and restaurants. We anticipate there will be other ways to put entertainment zones to work for the neighborhood's restaurants, residents and small businesses as well."

Discussing the futures of SF with Board of Supervisors' Rafael Mandelman

KRON 4, February 2

KRON4 anchor Stephanie Lin interviews the President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Rafael Mandelman.

California leaders say Trump orders targeting trans kids won’t change things inside the classroom

San Francisco Chronicle, January 31

San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman echoed concerns voiced by Wiener over Trump’s actions, and claimed efforts to villainize trans communities were aimed at distracting from other actions taken by the administration to cut funding for popular programs, including Medicaid.

“Everything Donald Trump has done in the last two weeks are straight out of the authoritarian playbook,” Mandelman said.

The Castro’s long-awaited post-pandemic coming out is finally happening

The San Francisco Standard, January 29th

“We’re not SoMa, and we’re not the Tenderloin, but there’s a volume of people here who are struggling with serious addictions and untreated mental illness,” said Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, who represents the Castro. He said he plans to work with Mayor Daniel Lurie to find ways to address the “totally unacceptable levels of chaos and disorder” in the neighborhood’s public spaces, adding, “There’s a lot to look forward to and many ways in which the future’s bright.”

SF Leaders Reaffirm ‘Sanctuary City’ Status Amid Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

KQED, January 28 

The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to pass a resolution upholding San Francisco’s long-standing sanctuary city ordinance, which prevents city agencies from aiding federal immigration enforcement. 

The Board of Supervisors’ vote comes just over a week after Trump took office, amid residents’ intensifying fears over local Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.

S.F. leaders quickly accept federal money, worried Trump administration will claw it back

San Francisco Chronicle, January 13

Mandelman told the Chronicle the board was making the unusual move “out of an abundance of caution.”
“We’re leaving nothing to chance and making sure that we have done everything we need to do to draw these funds down as quickly as possible,” Mandelman said. “We don’t know what the future holds, so we should be prepared for the worst and hope for the best.”

Mandelman to lead SF Board of Supervisors

Bay Area Reporter, January 8

"Dazed, confused," Mandelman could be heard saying via the broadcast of the board meeting as he took the gavel to preside over the meeting. He later added of becoming president, "I am looking forward to it and thank you."

Mandelman is someone who has "worked cooperatively and well across ideological lines throughout his entire public life," noted District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey.

District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan concurred and credited him for treating his colleagues "respectfully" both publicly and privately during their discussions about policy matters. She also said at a time when the city is facing ballooning budget deficits, Mandelman will be able to "communicate effectively, calmly, and respectfully with the executive branch."

Mandelman is supes' unanimous choice for board president

SF Examiner, January 8

“It’s a tremendous honor to be able to serve the residents of my district, this board, this beautiful city as a whole,” said Mandelman, after proceeding to the dais to a standing ovation. “I’m looking forward to it.”

The nomination for Mandelman was put forward first by Supervisor Matt Dorsey, and then by Connie Chan. Both are incumbent supervisors, but they represent opposite ends of the board’s ideological spectrum, with Dorsey generally tacking to the right of Chan, a staunch progressive.

In explaining their support for Mandelman, both described him as a unifying figure on the board and lauded his ability to speak across ideological divisions that have sometimes separated members.
Whenever he works with other city officials, Chan said, Mandelman “does it respectfully and with intellectual honesty, and that is all you can ask in a board president who can lead us in unity, especially in tough times to come.”

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SFPD Park Station Newsletter, February 20, 2025

Captain's Message

Dear Park Station Residents, Merchants, & Visitors:

Happy New Year!
  We look forward to partnering with the residents, merchants, and visitors in our numerous neighborhoods to have great events. Several key events include:

-Cole Valley Nights (3/13/2025)

-420 Day (4/20/2025)

-Bay to Breakers (5/18/2025)

-National Night Out (8/5/2025)

-46th Annual Haight-Ashbury Street Fair (tentatively 9/7/2025)

-Cole Valley Street Fair (TBD)

  If you would like to partner with us for an upcoming community event, please email us at SFPDParkStation@sfgov.org. 

Best,

Jack

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UCSF Health Sciences Instruction and Research Improvements Program recent achievement

The HSIR Improvement Program recently achieved a major feat over a couple of weekends when the UCSF Real Estate team directed the mobilization of two cranes – measuring 135- and 250 feet – for seismic improvements needed on the Health Sciences East (HSE) and Health Sciences West (HSW) towers at Parnassus Heights.  

The cranes reached 220 feet in the air and 50 feet over the roofs of the HSIR towers as workers positioned them over the HSE and the Dolby Regeneration Medicine buildings during two weekends from November 22-25 and December 5-10, 2024.

The crane mobilization and damper installation was successfully and safely completed on an active, fully occupied campus. Additionally, they managed the temporary closure of Medical Center Way and rerouted some UCSF shuttle routes without major disruption to the campus and community. This seamless, behind-the-scenes teamwork ensured the project was completed safely and efficiently.

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District 8 October 2024 Newsletter

Happy Holidays District 8 Neighbors!

As the season lights up our neighborhoods and homes, I want to take a moment to thank you.  Nearing the end of 2024 and heading into my final two years representing you on the Board of Supervisors, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity I have had to get to know and work with so many of you since I was first elected back in June of 2018.  All Supervisors of course think their Districts are the best, but in my case I know District 8 really is. 

Whether you’re spending the holidays with friends and family, volunteering to support our neighbors in need, or simply taking some time to rest up,  I hope this season brings you and your loved ones much joy. 

As always, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office. The office will be closed from December 24 through January 2, but you can always reach us at mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org. In the new year, come visit us in City Hall, where we will be moving from Room 284 down the hall to Room 268.

Warmest wishes, and see you around the District!

Gratefully yours,

MEET YOUR SUPERVISOR: OFFICE HOURS

VIRTUAL OFFICE HOURS: Join me online this Saturday, January 11th, from 10AM-12PM! Reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to secure a spot.

IN-PERSON OFFICE HOURS: Come meet me in Cole Valley on Saturday, January 25th, from 10AM-12PM! Reserve a spot by emailing mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org.

DISTRICT 8 ART SHOW AND HAPPY HOUR!
New Year, new office, new art! Join me, my staff, and local queer artists for an art show in our new office on Thursday, January 30th, from 3-5pm! Drinks and light refreshments will be served. RSVP required! A signup link is forthcoming!
 
NOE VALLEY TOWN HALL
Please join me on January 13 for a Noe Valley Town Hall! Together with District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, SFPD Mission Station Captain Liza Johansen, Ingleside Station Captain Amy Hurwitz, and DEM Director of Street Response Coordination Sam Dodge, we'll discuss public safety, street conditions, and the latest updates in Noe Valley.

  • Date: Monday, January 13th, 2025

  • Time: Doors open at 5:00pm; Program starts at 5:30pm; Event ends at 6:30pm

  • Location: Noe Valley Ministry

  • Address: 1021 Sanchez St, San Francisco, CA

RSVP required for entry. Sign up here: bit.ly/noevalleytownhall

Questions?
Please contact Henry DeRuff at henry.deruff@sfgov.org

UPCOMING NOE VALLEY TOWN SQUARE EVENTS

December 29, 3:30-5:30pm: Chanukah Wonderland - Annual Chanukah celebration including treats, bouncy house, and crafts - open to the entire community. More info here!

December 31, 3:00-7:00pm: Noe Valley Night Market - the last one of the year! More info here.

UPCOMING CASTRO EVENTS

December 20, 5-10pm: Castro Night Market: RSVP here!

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!
District 8 is home to many active neighborhood groups that organize events for the community, lead projects to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful, and connect neighbors with City leaders to advocate for neighborhood priorities. Join an association or go to an upcoming local event - it’s a great way to get involved, make new friends, and change your community for the better!

Learn more about how to get involved in your neighborhood here!

  • Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association: Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month from 7:00 – 8:00 pm, in the Ballroom of the Harvey Milk Recreation Center for the Arts, lobby level, and preceded by a community social from 6:30 – 7:00 pm.

  • Dolores Heights Improvement Club: Green Gardens group holds monthly clean-ups on the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 – 10:30 am. DHIC Board meets on the second Monday of every other month. Meetings are held via Zoom from 7pm – 8pm. Email info@doloresheights.org to obtain the Zoom meeting link.

  • Upper Noe Neighbors meets every other month on the third Wednesday at the Upper Noe Recreation Center.

  • Bernal Cut Project has monthly work days along the east and west sides of San Jose Ave, join the newsletter to find out what's going on and to plant, weed or mulch.

  • Castro Art Mart is a monthly street fair on Noe Street between Market and Beaver the first Sunday of every month from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, featuring LGBTQ art from local artists, live music, comedy and drag shows, and more.

  • Castro Art Walk is a monthly community-driven event where local businesses host special events to share art with the neighborhood! Check out their website to learn which businesses are participating and head out to the Castro each month on the first Friday, from 5-8pm!

  • Noe Valley Town Square hosts regular events such as Acoustic Sunday, Rhythm and Motion dance, and Free Sunday Morning Yoga.

Don’t see your neighborhood group but want your information added to our newsletter? Email Henry DeRuff at henry.deruff@sfgov.org.


SFPD STATION CAPTAINS’ MEETINGS
Curious about safety in your neighborhood or have questions for SFPD? Attending your Station Captains’ Meetings is a great way to learn about what’s going on. Captains’ Meetings are at the following times:

  • Park Station (1899 Waller): Fourth Wednesdays at 5PM on Zoom

    • Neighborhoods: Cole Valley, Duboce Triangle, and Twin Peaks

  • Mission Station (630 Valencia): Last Tuesdays at 5PM at Mission Station

    • Neighborhoods: Castro, Mission Dolores, and Noe Valley

  • Ingleside Station (1 Sgt. John V. Young): Third Tuesdays at 6PM at Ingleside Station

    • Neighborhoods: Diamond Heights and Glen Park

 

24TH STREET REPAVING
Repaving 24th Street in Noe Valley is long overdue. My office has been working with the Department of Public Works to ensure that it is done in a thoughtful way that takes into account the impacts to merchants and residents along the corridor, including advocating for the repaving to take place after the holiday season. Here’s an update from DPW and their contractor, Basset Engineering:
 

What: San Francisco Public Works has hired Basset Engineering to perform infrastructure upgrades on 24th Street between Homestead and Guerrero Street. Some blocks will include open-cut sewer excavation and rehabilitation (lining) work while other work will include concrete curb ramp construction, concrete bus pad installation, and street base replacement. Once the concrete restoration is completed on all blocks, the contractor will schedule final repaving of the roadway.

When: The anticipated start date for construction is the week of January 6th, 2025. Work on 24th Street is anticipated to be completed in May 2025.

Workdays & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am - 3:00pm
(Note: Weekend work is allowed however none is anticipated at this time.)

The best way to stay updated on the project is to sign up for email updates from the project team here. You can also visit the project website here for more information.

For questions, please contact:

  • Alex Murillo at DPW: (628) 271-2244

  • Daire Lordan at Basset Engineering

    • Office: (415) 930-2385

    • After-hours/urgent: (415) 410-4211

NEW 28TH AND CHURCH STOP SIGN
Earlier this year, my office successfully advocated for and secured stop signs at the intersection of Church and 28th streets, which had been long-sought by Upper Noe Neighbors and the Upper Noe community. At long last, the MTA installed the stop sign in November. Here’s an update from the MTA:

A new all-way stop was installed by SFMTA crews on Church and 28th Streets on Friday, November 22, 2024.

Two nearby J Church stops were moved the following week to align with the new stopping pattern. The existing Clipper Street stops will be moved to 26th Street and the existing 27th Street stops will be relocated to 28th Street.

These safety and J Church stop spacing changes were approved by the SFMTA Board of Directors on October 15. They do not include major infrastructure changes.

With these changes in effect, the J Church will stop primarily at even numbered streets on Church Street between 14th and 30th Streets.

A future Muni Forward project will evaluate potential J Church reliability improvements on Church Street from 22nd to 30th streets in collaboration with the Noe Valley community. More details can be found on the J Church Safety and Accessibility Project webpage.


VOLUNTEER WITH US!
We are always looking for D8 office volunteers and interns! In particular, we are looking for volunteers or interns on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, beginning in the new year. Volunteering or interning in my office is a great opportunity to serve District 8 and learn about the issues facing our city, gain valuable experience in the legislative branch of local government, and see how elected officials can work with the community to create effective public policy solutions to solve our toughest problems. Sign up here or reach out to anh.v.ha@sfgov.org for more information.

Welcome to Faces in the Crowd, written by Marshall Kilduff, accomplished journalist and long time volunteer with our District 8 Office. Marshall tells the stories of District 8 community members who are going above and beyond to contribute to San Francisco!

The Castro Street Fair just hit the 50 year mark, an enduring neighborhood feature that’s remained true to its original mission to promote the neighborhood and LGBT rights. Along with the annual PRIDE march and Folsom Street Fair, the Castro event is a community mainstay that features city streets, a welcoming feel, and outdoor weather to draw thousands.

Pulling off the event can be daunting. In the weeks leading up to the big day, it’s a 24/7 enterprise for Jenn Meyer, who heads the fair’s board of directors. The event accommodates 175 booths, 200 volunteers, and a budget of $275,000.

It’s a mix of corporate sponsors such as Verizon and Waymo but there’s an emphasis on local businesses, nonprofits, and artists. This year included the tumbles and flips of SF Cheer, as well as pole dancing by local masseuses. The 90 degree weather – which feels a far cry from today – meant scant sales for the wool sweater booth, and a candle maker had to shut down when his wares began melting. The high temps yielded intriguing clothing options. The Iowa State Fair it’s not.

Going back 50 years, the fair was the brainchild of camera shop owner Harvey Milk. He had the urge to publicize a burgeoning gay neighborhood in a way that dispelled fear and worry. Small businesses, including his own, needed notice and customers. In 1974, the fair covered two blocks along Castro Street.

Spin forward to this year, and the fair is among the biggest in the city, spread across seven blocks including main stem Market street. It’s grown to the point where a production company is needed to line up permits, collect fees, and allocate booth space. This year included extra buzz with mayoral candidates dropping by to work the crowd.

Meyer believes the fair is as important as ever. The pandemic hit local businesses hard and the city’s street life isn’t always inviting. But the broader shift to an online, stay-home world that has darkened downtown and other shopping strips is less of a problem locally, she believes. “Customers want to help local businesses here, and the Castro gives them a reason to come into a store,” she says. The fair can only further the trend, she adds, by getting more people out and about. “We’re all about emphasizing the attractions of a thriving place,” she said.

On December 17, the Board of Supervisors adjourned our last meeting of the year in memory of Bob Dockendorff, who died peacefully in his sleep at his Diamond Heights home in the early morning of Monday December 9th. He was 85 years old. Bob was an active presence in Diamond Heights, longtime member and president of the Diamond Heights Community Association, and LGBTQ champion, particularly in the US military. He helped lead the charge to repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy and provided counseling and support to those it impacted. Rest in Power, Bob. May your memory be a blessing.

On December 10, we honored Andrew Jordan Nance with a Special Commendation at the Board of Supervisors meeting. In 2014, Andrew founded Mindful Arts San Francisco, a volunteer-facilitated mindfulness instruction program benefiting SFUSD students. Andrew’s work helps children develop focus, emotional awareness, and resilience. Since Mindful Arts’ founding a decade ago, Andrew has recruited hundreds of mindfulness volunteers to engage with SFUSD students, serving an estimated 1,000 youth each year.

This year’s Castro Winter Wonderland on December 7 was a treat! Thanks to the Castro Merchants for a spectacular, fun event!

Mandelman introduces redaction legislation for 'personal safety'

Bay Area Reporter, December 17

"These new disclosure requirements, however, have raised security concerns for reproductive health and LGBTQ organizations regarding potential impacts to their officers and staff," Mandelman continued. "The requirement to make publicly available in one place the names of these organizational leaders and the other organizations with which they are associated jeopardizes the privacy and security of these individuals at a time when the rights of reproductive health and our LGBTQ community are under attack from far right groups across the country and the incoming federal administration.

"Especially at this time, San Francisco must remain vigilant and proactively work to protect our most vulnerable communities from right-wing hate groups and those who intend to harm, harass, and bully our people," he added.

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Daniel Lurie wants to declare a fentanyl emergency. Here’s why that might not be possible

San Francisco Chronicle, December 13

The city already has a similar program, called SoMa Rise, a sobering center that gives unhoused people experiencing addiction a place to sleep, shower, get a meal and referrals to treatment programs. SoMa Rise took years to open, so Supervisor Rafael Mandelman said the mayor would need to find a way to expedite the city’s permitting process to create more centers like it, especially in light of the budget deficit.

“We’re going to have to figure out how to do more with less and prioritize our city’s spending on the people with the greatest needs,” Mandelman said.

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This S.F. neighborhood could be the next to get outdoor drinking

San Francisco Chronicle, December 11

Cole Valley began hosting a night market last week, which Mandelman called a “smashing success.”

“Establishment of this Entertainment Zone will allow the neighborhood to build on that success and continue to throw great outdoor events that bring people together, build community and support our local businesses,” he said in a statement.

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San Francisco Supervisors Reverse City's Controversial RV Parking Ban
KQED, December 11

“This is not going to mean the mass displacement of RVs, but these are some tools to be sparingly used as necessary when nothing else is working,” Mandelman said.

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San Francisco shoots down RV parking restrictions adopted this fall to curb homelessness

San Francisco Chronicle, December 10

City transit and homeless response officials portrayed the policy as a balanced approach designed to get people who are living in vehicles into safer and more stable housing while also addressing community concerns. Residents in many neighborhoods have put pressure on their elected officials to address the rise in RVs parked on city streets, raising concerns about impaired sight lines for other drivers, illegal dumping of garbage and sewage, and fewer on-street parking spots.

Mandelman, who sided with SFMTA, called the policy “compassionate” and “constrained,” adding that some San Franciscans may argue it didn’t go far enough.

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SF supervisors overturn expanded overnight RV parking restrictions

San Francisco Examiner, December 10

In his remarks explaining his vote, Mandelman described the crowd’s opposition as a “humane” position. Nevertheless, he said, “it is not the position of the majority of San Franciscans or anything close.”

That being the case, Mandelman said, he has a responsibility to help The City meet his constituents’ demands “that they be able to use their public spaces, that they not be privatized in a completely unregulated way.”

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San Francisco police tout increase in traffic enforcement for 2024

CBS News Bay Area, December 11


"We are still far, far, far below the enforcement levels the department was at prior to the pandemic, much less 10 years ago. And my concern is that we don't really have a clear plan or notion for how we're going to get anywhere close to those levels of enforcement," Rafael Mandelman, San Francisco District 8 Supervisor, told CBS News Bay Area.

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“Daylighting Law” Warnings Started Monday, Nov. 11

Dear Cole Valley Improvement Association,

You’ve probably heard about Assembly Bill 413, the “Daylighting Law” passed by the California legislature last year. It prohibits parking within 20 feet (about one car length) of any crosswalk in the direction of approaching traffic. The law was passed to improve safety at intersections, especially for pedestrians.

I’m writing, because starting Monday, Nov. 11, we, the SFMTA, began issuing written warnings for vehicles parked within 20 feet of any crosswalk in the direction of approaching traffic.

Starting Jan. 1, 2025, we will begin issuing citations to comply with California law.

This law applies to all crosswalks, whether the crossing is painted or not. The state legislature didn’t provide us with the resources to paint every spot red before the law goes into effect on Jan. 1., It’s important for San Francisco drivers to remember to park at least 20 feet – about one car length – away from any marked or unmarked crosswalk.

How daylighting helps people walking and driving

The extra space created by daylighting helps both people walking and driving see each other better. Parked cars will no longer limit what people can see before they step off the curb to cross. Drivers will be able to better see people about to cross the street who might have been hidden by a car without daylighting. This is especially important for children, who are less visible at intersections. 

Our agency has been a strong proponent of daylighting. We have already painted red zones at many busy or high injury intersections. 

Why California changed its intersection parking law

Before the state legislature passed the Daylighting Law last year, California was one of the few states that did not require daylighting at intersections.

The U.S. Uniform Vehicle Code, adopted in 1926, prohibited parking within 25 feet of an intersection. This later was amended to 20 feet. Many countries around the world also prohibit parking within 5 meters (or 16 feet) of an intersection.

California, however, opted to create the state’s own Vehicle Code. It did not include daylighting provisions. So, while daylighting is new to California, the concept is almost as old as the automobile itself.

Here in San Francisco, the Board of Supervisors in 2019 adopted a resolution “urging the SFMTA to create a daylighting plan and systematically implement parking restrictions at intersection corners,” especially on the city’s High Injury Network. That’s the 12% of city streets that account for 68% of severe and fatal traffic crashes.

Now, California joins the more than 40 states that mandate daylighting. So, remember to change the way you park at intersections. Leave a car-length space between your vehicle and the crosswalk in front of you if there is no red zone or parking sign.

This is a big change to what people in San Francisco are used to, but we have to follow state law. We are planning to educate the public through the media and social media campaigns. But we would appreciate your assistance. The most effective messengers are voices from the community, and we need your help to educate your networks and communities about this change to state law, to help them avoid citations and learn the new parking rules.

Thank you. You can learn more about daylighting and about the new law at our daylighting webpage (SFMTA.com/Daylighting). Or you can reply to this email with your questions and concerns.

All the best,
Jowi Aizpuru

 

Jowi Aizpuru (he/him)

Public Relations Assistant

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How can neighbors demand safety improvements to Parnassus/Cole Valley? 

1.    Submit a 311 ticket (https://www.sf.gov/topics/311-online-services) - scroll to the ‘Transportation signs, signals, and markings’ section. This is the only official way to alert SFMTA to road safety issues. 

2.    Record and share your 311 reference number. Email a description of the 311 report you submitted and the reference number to Ho, Calvin <calvin.ho@sfgov.org> and serenaunger@gmail.com (Serena is a CVIA member that is volunteering to track requests). This will give the community visibility on the scale and breadth of safety issues raised. Multiple people submitting the same/similar reports sends a message that the safety concern is serious and requires urgent attention. 

3.    Attend the UCSF Parnassus Heights Construction Update meeting. In a recent SF Standard article, "a UCSF spokesperson said that between 50 and 220 trucks drive to the construction sites per day..." We need UCSF to be actively investing in road safety. When: Wednesday, November 6th from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Where: UCSF Parnassus Heights Campus, Faculty Alumni House, 745 Parnassus Ave; or virtually by Zoom.

4.    Sign up for the newly created Cole Valley Pedestrian Safety Google Group to communicate and organize street safety concerns: cole-valley-pedestrian-safety@googlegroups.com

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Please Volunteer at Alvord Lake this Saturday,October 26 2024

 Please Volunteer this Saturday, 
October 26, 2024
10am - Noon
The fourth Saturday of every month
offers an opportunity to help beautify
the eastern end of Golden Gate Park.
 Meet at the plaza above the lakelet
at Stanyan and Haight Streets.
Look for the SFR&P vehicle to determine our location.

Volunteer slots are limited-
so please sign the waiver in the link quickly.

To ensure the safety and comfort of all parties involved, if you are feeling unwell, please do not come.

Volunteer Guidelines

The supervising gardener is your host. Please respect his/her knowledge and experience. Park gardening is not the same as home gardening. Ask questions and seek assistance.

Safety:

  • Please wear closed-toed shoes. Wear comfortable clothing that covers your entire body (long sleeves, long pants, etc.) And don't forget the sunscreen and perhaps a hat! 

  • Wear gloves and use tools provided in ways demonstrated by the work crew supervisor. 

  • “Eyes before hands.” When picking up trash from under bushes, behind trees, and under benches, use the tool provided to pull things out where you can see them. Then pick them up.

  • Be aware of the locations of other workers and members of the public to ensure your safety and theirs.

  • Lift with your legs, not your back.

  • Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed–toed shoes (ideally boots); you may be work in or around poison oak or blackberries.

  • Avoid picking up broken glass and hypodermic needles. Notify the gardener if you find anything undesirable.

  • Drink water to avoid dehydration. Wash hands or use hand sanitizer before touching and eatingfood

  • Volunteers are not allowed to use power tools, or apply herbicides/pesticides.

    Work Site:
    Stack debris out of the way of the public but still accessible to staff trucks. Stack cut branches with butt end to road. Keep bagged trash separate from organic debris, weeds separate from brush. Pile weeds to be picked up in small piles (handled by one swoop of pitchfork) so that staff can easily load trucks.

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District 8 October 2024 Newsletter

Happy Stairway Month, District 8!
 
It’s sunny, it’s block party and street fair season, and it’s been great to see many of you out and about in the district. As usual, we’ve been busy!
 
LGBTQ History Museum
 
On October 1st, the Mayor and I introduced legislation to acquire the building at 2280 Market Street between Noe and Sanchez to be used as a permanent home for the LGBTQ History Museum! The road to this point has been a long and winding one. We looked at a number of sites, entered into several letters of intent, requested appraisals of multiple buildings, negotiated with various owners, had our hopes raised and dashed at different points.
 
This journey began more than fifteen years ago, when then-Supervisor Bevan Dufty struck the deal that allowed the GLBT Historical Society to open a museum space in the Castro. Although that space has been a great success and a destination for visitors to the Castro and neighborhood residents alike, we have all known for some time that it would not be the museum’s forever home. Beginning in 2021, Mayor Breed set aside funds in each year’s budget to be used for a permanent home for an LGBTQ history museum befitting San Francisco’s role in the story of queer liberation, culture and politics.
 
Former Supervisor and now State Senator Scott Wiener found $5.5 million in State funding to help make initial improvements to the building and give the GLBT Historical Society a solid start on the private fundraising required to sustain and grow the museum’s operations in the future.
 
Currently we anticipate that the building will be operated in partnership with the GLBT Historical Society and the Community Arts Stabilization Trust, a nonprofit that specializes in supporting cultural nonprofits in the acquisition and operation of real estate assets. Our hope is that in time the GLBT Historical Society will be able to acquire the building from the City, but until that point it will operate the museum under a lease.
 
There is still lots of work to do to close on the property, get the second floor ready for the museum and see the museum open and operating, but it is most exciting to have made it this far.
 
SF Stairway Month and Burnside Steps
 
One of the fun parts of this work is that we get to celebrate neighborhood beautification projects and citywide civic involvement. This month, we had the chance to do both!
 
You may be familiar with the Burnside Mural in Glen Park and the effort to create a tiled staircase there, led by the relentless Renee Berger (Renee was profiled in our July “Faces in the Crowd” segment). After a long, meandering, and frankly painful journey through our city’s regulatory “approval” process, tiles are being installed this month. Head out to 50-59 Burnside Avenue to see the work in progress and come for the ribbon cutting on October 27 to see San Francisco’s newest tiled staircase!
 
With the impending completion of the Burnside Steps, the many Crosstown Trail-themed events of “Crosstober,” and the best weather of the year coming up, it seemed a perfect time to celebrate the City’s 900+ stairways. So, we wrote a resolution declaring October to be San Francisco’s first-ever Stairway Month! My colleagues on the Board passed the resolution unanimously on October 1st, so get out there and enjoy District 8’s many stairways! You can find your nearest, or furthest, stairway here to plot your adventures. Stairway Month will include a guided walk across five of the City’s tiled staircases and several other fun events; get involved and find out more  here. Happy trails!

Other Legislative Highlights

We wanted to try something new this month to give you more of a sense of what else we’ve been working on. Here are some of our other legislative highlights from the last month. You can find a complete list on Legistar by using the Advanced Search function with my name. FYI: Sponsorship means our office wrote legislation or was its primary supporter; cosponsorship means we were involved along the way and indicates our strong support for someone else’s legislation.
 


SFUSD Planned School Closures

Finally, SFUSD released their list of proposed school closures and mergers on Tuesday . While I certainly recognize and appreciate the looming budgetary crisis confronting the District and the importance of effective resource alignment, I am quite concerned about the specific proposal to close the Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy and merge it with Sanchez Elementary. Although the Board of Supervisors does not have direct authority over the School District, which is governed by an independently elected Board, I have expressed my concerns directly to Superintendent Matt Wayne and members of the School Board and I will continue to advocate for the communities at both schools to ensure an outcome that better meets their needs than the current proposal.

We welcome constituent feedback on the school closure proposal; if you have thoughts you would like to share, please feel free to reach out to my legislative aide Henry DeRuff.

Thanks for reading, and as always, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office. You can always reach us at mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org and (415) 544-6968, or you can stop by to visit us in Room 284 of City Hall.

See you in the District!

MEET YOUR SUPERVISOR: OFFICE HOURS

VIRTUAL OFFICE HOURS: Join me online on Saturday, October 19th, from 9:30-11AM! Reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to secure a spot.

IN-PERSON OFFICE HOURS: Our next in-person office hours are Saturday, November 23rd, from 10AM-12PM in Glen Park! Email mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to reserve a spot.

JOIN FRIENDS OF EUREKA VALLEY PARK

From Friends of Eureka Valley Park:

Join Friends of Eureka Valley Park! Did you know that the SFParks Alliance's Community Partner Network includes 100 San Francisco parks -- but Eureka Valley Park is not one of them? Our community is missing out on the opportunity to apply for city grants to beautify and improve our park. Friends of Eureka Valley Park was established in 2022 to build a strong relationship with the Parks Department and other neighborhood organizations and join the Community Partner Network to bring more funding to our park. Join our next community gardening session, coming up in October. Email FriendsOfEVPark@gmail.com to get involved.

JAMES LICK MIDDLE SCHOOL EVENTS

From the James Lick Middle School Parents:

There are alot of great things happening at JLMS this year! Here are some of the highlights:

  • Partnership with SF Public Works - Bringing educational programs focused on maintaining our school grounds, including our upper and lower yards and the surrounding areas.

  • Garden Club - Encouraging student learning and enrichment by planting edible gardens!

  • Beautification & Repair Club - Empowering our students to make decisions and take action to improve areas around the school.

  • JLMS Cultural Block Party -  Join us at James Lick Middle School on Wednesday, Nov. 20th, 4:30 - 7pm. We’d love for you to attend and help spread the word (see attached flyer)!

  • JLMS Boys Soccer - Our team won the Championship this past Wednesday!

  • Beautification Fundraising Goals: To support improvements both inside and outside the school, including:

    • Murals

    • Repaving and painting the tarmac

    • Basketball hoop repairs and replacements

    • New outdoor furniture

    • Shade structures for the eating area

    • And much more!

SANCHEZ STREET BLOCK PARTY!

Come on out to the Sanchez Street Block Party next weekend!
When: Sunday, October 20, 12-3pm
Where: Sanchez St. between Clipper and 26th
What: Fun for the whole family, food, dancing, and more!

RESTAURANTS: JOIN FALL SF RESTAURANT WEEK!

From the Golden Gate Restaurant Association:

Fall SF Restaurant Week will take place November 8th-17th. Registration is open now and we would love as many participants from District 8 as possible. Golden Gate Restaurant Association membership is required, but for qualifying small restaurants we do offer complimentary or reduced fee memberships. Registration details are available here!


PROPOSED J-CHURCH UPDATES IN UPPER NOE VALLEY

For years, our office and the Upper Noe Community have advocated for the MTA to install four-way stop signs at 28th and Church to make the intersection safer.

Here’s the latest from the MTA:

In response to community concerns about traffic safety, the SFMTA is proposing to install all-way stop signs at Church and 28th streets. Improving safety at this intersection has long been a priority for our office and Noe Valley residents. The proposal also includes changes to the location of nearby J Church stops.

If approved, the J Church stops at Clipper and 27th streets would shift to 26th and 28th streets. Shifting these transit stops to even-numbered streets would create more regular spacing that is similar to other stops nearby. For example, the J Church currently has stops at 14th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 22nd, 24th and 30th streets. It would also allow for all-way stop signs to be added at 28th Street without delaying trains. While train stops would shift, no stop signs would be removed.

Some community members have voiced concern over the Muni stop changes, but overall, we’ve heard strong support for the proposal — especially adding the all-way stop sign. The proposal was presented at an SFMTA public hearing on September 6, and the SFMTA will request final approval from the SFMTA Board on October 15. You can share feedback on the proposal at the board meeting, or by emailing the project team at JChurchProject@SFMTA.com. Check out the proposed J Church changes and sign up for project alerts.

In the coming years, the SFMTA will evaluate more safety, reliability and efficiency improvements for the J Church in Noe Valley. We will keep you updated once this process starts.

SFPD BOUNDARY ANALYSIS UPDATE + FEEDBACK:

As a charter requirement, every ten years, the San Francisco Police Department must develop a new SFPD District Station boundary map. This proposed map has 15 changes, with the intent to balance workload across stations and improve police services across the city. These changes would move the Castro from Mission Station to Park Station. The new borders between the stations would be Sanchez, 22nd, and Grand View. We have heard from residents and merchants several concerns and priorities, primarily: keeping the Castro beat officers; ensuring institutional knowledge is kept and passed along; and maintaining at least the same level of service.

We encourage you to share feedback with SFPD. See the proposed map and provide feedback by October 15 here. You are also welcome to share your thoughts with my aide, Henry DeRuff.

2026 SFUSD ENROLLMENT FAIR

The SFUSD Enrollment Fair is the start of next year’s annual enrollment cycle. Families who will apply for PK, elementary school, middle school, or high school for the 2025-26 school year can come to the fair to learn about the application process, meet school Principals and other representatives, and access the resources provided by SFUSD and other city agencies and community organizations. Learn more here.

  • Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024

  • Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

  • Location: Balboa High School (1000 Cayuga Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94112)

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!

District 8 is home to many active neighborhood groups that organize events for the community, lead projects to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful, and connect neighbors with City leaders to advocate for neighborhood priorities. Join an association or go to an upcoming local event - it’s a great way to get involved, make new friends, and change your community for the better!

Learn more about how to get involved in your neighborhood here!

  • Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association: Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month from 7:00 – 8:00 pm, in the Ballroom of the Harvey Milk Recreation Center for the Arts, lobby level, and preceded by a community social from 6:30 – 7:00 pm.

  • Dolores Heights Improvement Club: Green Gardens group holds monthly clean-ups on the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 – 10:30 am. DHIC Board meets on the second Monday of every other month. Meetings are held via Zoom from 7pm – 8pm. Email info@doloresheights.org to obtain the Zoom meeting link.

  • Upper Noe Neighbors meets every other month on the third Wednesday at the Upper Noe Recreation Center.

  • Bernal Cut Project has monthly work days along the east and west sides of San Jose Ave, join the newsletter to find out what's going on and to plant, weed or mulch.

  • Castro Art Mart is a monthly street fair on Noe Street between Market and Beaver the first Sunday of every month from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, featuring LGBTQ art from local artists, live music, comedy and drag shows, and more.

  • Castro Art Walk is a monthly community-driven event where local businesses host special events to share art with the neighborhood! Check out their website to learn which businesses are participating and head out to the Castro each month on the first Friday, from 5-8pm!

  • Noe Valley Town Square hosts regular events such as Acoustic Sunday, Rhythm and Motion dance, and Free Sunday Morning Yoga.

Don’t see your neighborhood group but want your information added to our newsletter? Email Henry DeRuff at henry.deruff@sfgov.org.


 SFPD STATION CAPTAINS’ MEETINGS

Curious about safety in your neighborhood or have questions for SFPD? Attending your Station Captains’ Meetings is a great way to learn about what’s going on. Captains’ Meetings are at the following times:

  • Park Station (1899 Waller): Fourth Wednesdays at 5PM on Zoom

    • Neighborhoods: Cole Valley, Duboce Triangle, and Twin Peaks

  • Mission Station (630 Valencia): Last Tuesdays at 5PM at Mission Station

    • Neighborhoods: Castro, Mission Dolores, and Noe Valley

  • Ingleside Station (1 Sgt. John V. Young): Third Tuesdays at 6PM at Ingleside Station

    • Neighborhoods: Diamond Heights and Glen Park

 
311 UPDATE: NOW AVAILABLE IN CHINESE, SPANISH, AND FILIPINO! 

From the City Administrator’s Office:

The SF311 mobile app is now available in Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino! Accessing City services has never been easier. Whether you're on Android or iPhone, just a few taps connect you to the services you need. Download the app today. The app will automatically detect your phone’s language.

GRAFFITI ADVISORY BOARD VACANCY

Tired of blight and graffiti in your neighborhood, District 8, and San Francisco as a whole? Apply to be the District 8 representative to the Graffiti Advisory Board today. Fill out the application here. Once you’ve applied, or if you have questions, please reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org.
 
VOLUNTEER WITH US!

We are always looking for D8 office volunteers and interns! Specifically, we are looking for interns or volunteers on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Volunteering or interning in my office is a great opportunity to serve District 8 and learn about the issues facing our city, gain valuable experience in the legislative branch of local government, and see how elected officials can work with the community to create effective public policy solutions to solve our toughest problems. Sign up here or reach out to anh.v.ha@sfgov.org for more information.

Welcome to Faces in the Crowd, written by Marshall Kilduff, accomplished journalist and long time volunteer with our District 8 Office. Marshall tells the stories of District 8 community members who are going above and beyond to contribute to San Francisco!

Would you like banh mi for lunch? How about chicken tikka or a breakfast burrito? For vegans there’s BBQ tofu, if you slide your tray down the cafeteria line. In a growing number of public schools, these are the mealtime choices offered by super-chef Josh Davidson to hungry high schoolers. 

For these students, gone are the days of thawed out food trucked in from Midwest warehouse kitchens. His team at the McAteer campus at the top of Glen Canyon is whipping up their own meals, buying food locally, baking bread, and serving produce grown on a reclaimed football field.

To begin with, the issue is obvious. School chow usually ranks below airline meals or day-after fast food. A decade back, parents complained and school employees noticed barely noshed offerings filling trash cans. 

San Francisco school leaders set a new course, canceling outside food contracts once thought to be cheap and efficient. A group of determined nutritionists including Davidson saw an opportunity and over time built up the kitchen on the hilltop campus that hosts Ruth Asawa School for the Arts and the Academy San Francisco, two city high schools. 

He started out feeding 60 students a day, a tiny portion of the 1000 students walking by the cafeteria. But with a new menu at breakfast and lunch, that number has jumped to 500, with 600 showing up on pizza day.

The meals are free, paid by state and federal funds. The program also ships meals around the city to several pre-schools and small high schools without kitchens. If a November bond measure wins, the school system may build a major kitchen to prepare food for all students city-wide, tapping Davidson’s ideas and energy.

He’s a lifelong foodie. After working in restaurants in New York and Philadelphia, Davidson came west, believing schools could be a proving ground for new ideas. Students, he noticed, were ready to suggest menu items. They were open to different cuisines. ”Kids are better customers,” he said. “They’re appreciative, grateful. They tell you what they like.”

Chef Davidson and the McAteer Culinary Center are looking for volunteers! Specifically, Josh is looking for book/board game donations (in good condition!) for the dining room and help at the on-campus four-acre farm. There is also a community event to come see the farm (and eat pizza!) on November 2nd from 1-3pm. To learn more about the event or food program, or to volunteer, Josh can be reached at davidsonj2@sfusd.edu.

The Castro Street Fair celebrated its 50th Anniversary on Oct 6th! We braved the heat for a grand time and want to thank Jenn Meyer, Fred Lopez, and the entire volunteer-led Board of Directors, donors, sponsors, and volunteers for continuing the legacy of Harvey Milk’s neighborhood street festival.

On October 5th, we went on the Glen Park Art Walk and celebrated the art, music, food, and small businesses of Glen Park. Congratulations to Art Walk SF, the Glen Park Merchant Association, and Avenue Greenlight on a great event!

On October 1st, the Board of Supervisors passed my legislation authorizing the installation of a commemorative plaque to honor the amazing Activists of Woodland Ave: Jane & Jack Morrison and Diana & Agar Jaicks. These families contributed enormously to countless progressive causes and campaigns through the second half of the last century and the first decades of this one. It was an honor and a treat to work with the Jaicks’ daughter Lisa on this project.

My mother and grandmother both finished their lives at the Jewish Home. They were very different women with very different needs, but I will forever be grateful to the Jewish Home for the excellent care they provided to each of them. On September 30th, I got to visit the SF Campus for Jewish Living for the first time in seven years and to tour the beautiful new Frank Residences. They’re still doing amazing work over there.

On September 24th, we honored the life and legacy of Rudy Stadlberger. Rudy, a son of SoMa and 60+ year Noe Valleyan, passed away this summer at the age of 100. Rudy was a handball champion, community stalwart, daily walker, and serially open-minded person. May his memory be a blessing.

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UCSF Parnassus Heights Construction Update

UCSF Health Helen Diller Hospital (HDH)

With shoring complete, the Helen Diller Hospital project has moved into the next phase of construction – building the foundation for the building. To start, that work includes creating deep foundations, which is a type of foundation made by pouring concrete into holes drilled into the ground.

  • Potential impacts:

  • Periodic early morning material deliveries

  • Intermittent truck traffic - flaggers will be present to direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic, monitor truck idling, and ensure all trucks are covered when leaving the jobsite. Current trucking routes can be accessed here.

  • Work hours:

  • "Noisy" work operations will be Monday - Friday, 7:00AM - 5:00PM and Saturday's 8:00AM - 4:00PM.

  • Through November, "not noisy" work operations are expected intermittently from 5:00 - 8:00PM, Monday - Friday to address unforeseen soil conditions.

There are multiple utility projects underway impacting the two main roads on the campus, Medical Center Way and Parnassus Avenue.

Medical Center Way:

  • Potential impacts:

  • Single lane closures on weekdays and Medical Center Way is closed on the weekends. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

  • Work hours:

  • Monday - Friday, 7:00AM - 5:00PM and weekends 8:00AM - 5:00PM.

Parnassus Avenue:

  • Potential impacts:

  • Beginning Saturday, October 5 through the end of the year there will be a single lane closure along Parnassus Avenue between Hill Point Avenue and the main hospital entrance. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

  • Due to unforeseen steam line issues, overnight work is expected to take place through mid-October. The work will be located within a manhole on the worksite, minimal lighting will be utilized, and noise blankets have been installed.

  • Work hours:

  • Overnight: Monday - Sunday, 7:00PM - 3:00AM

  • Single lane closure: weekends 8:00AM - 5:00PM.

Bakar Research and Academic Building (BRAB)

Shoring work will be ongoing through the fall of 2024.

  • Potential impacts:

  • Intermittent truck traffic on Parnassus Ave and Koret Way - flaggers will be present to direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic, monitor truck idling, and ensure all trucks are covered when leaving the jobsite. Current trucking routes can be accessed here.

  • As a safety precaution and to allow more space for construction logistics, Koret Way will remain closed to parking indefinitely. ADA parking spaces and a pedestrian route to the Koret Vision Center will be available.

  • Work hours:

  • Hours of work will be Monday - Friday, 7:00AM - 5:00PM and Saturday's from 8:00AM - 5:00PM.

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Volunteer at Alvord Lake this Saturday, September 28, 10 a.m. to 12 noon.

Join the RPD gardeners and the Alvord Lake Task Force to beautify the eastern entrance of Golden Gate Park. A wide range of gardening tasks is available. Please wear closed-toed shoes, long pants and layers. The event will occur rain or shine. All supplies, tools, and gloves are provided by RPD. Meet at the Haight and Stanyan entrance to Golden Gate Park.

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District 8 September 2024 Newsletter

Hello District 8!

With the Board’s August recess fading into distant memory, the District 8 Office is gearing up for a productive fall. We hope you’ve had a wonderful summer and are looking forward to the best weather of the year in September and October! We’ve taken on numerous projects this year, from increasing traffic enforcement to expanding shelter capacity, but this month we wanted to update you on one of our ongoing projects: the Residential Treatment and Care Workgroup.

I have been working on expanding access to mental health treatment since I became Supervisor. I believe strongly in using conservatorship to care for people who cannot care for themselves, and whose mental illness prevents them from voluntarily accepting care, but the reality is that without an adequate supply of appropriate facilities, we will be stymied in our efforts to get the hardest-to-treat people off the streets, and out of the jails. And the tragic reality is that, San Francisco (and California more broadly) simply do not have enough treatment facilities or placements for people with severe mental illness. Earlier this year I asked the Mayor to convene a Residential Care and Treatment Workgroup to analyze and address our acute lack of such facilities.

The Workgroup, which I co-chair along with the Director of the Department of Public Health, includes public and private stakeholders, including UCSF, Kaiser, and Sutter Health, has met several times already, and its work is being informed by interviews and focus groups with community health providers and other stakeholders. We are aiming to complete our work and provide recommendations to guide future City investment and advocacy by the end of the year.

The Workgroup comes at an opportune time, as the passage of Prop 1 allows San Francisco to apply for funds to buy and build mental health facilities, while Senate Bill 43 has expanded conservatorship criteria to include people with disabling substance addictions. If you’re interested in learning more about our work on mental health treatment beds, feel free to reach out to my staffer on this issue, Adam Thongsavat.

Thanks for reading, and as always, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office. You can always reach us at mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org and (415) 544-6968, or you can stop by to visit us in Room 284 of City Hall.

See you in the District!

Rafael

MEET YOUR SUPERVISOR: OFFICE HOURS

IN-PERSON OFFICE HOURS: Join me in-person in the Castro, on Sunday, October 6th, from 10:30AM-12:30PM! Email mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to reserve a spot.


VIRTUAL OFFICE HOURS: Join me online on Saturday, October 19th, from 10AM-12PM! Reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to secure a spot.


UPPER NOE BLOCK PARTY!

Saturday, September 21, 11am-3pm: Come celebrate the Upper Noe neighborhood and park with an admission-free party featuring live music, dance, demonstrations, food, children’s activities, and fun for all ages. Meet your neighbors and learn about local community groups, schools and activities. A fun-filled day that strengthens community connections. Free tables and space are available for local groups who want to participate. Email hello@uppernoeneighbors.com or visit uppernoeneighbors.com for more information.

COLE VALLEY FAIR!
 

Sunday, September 22, 10am-5pm: Back for its 20th anniversary this year, the Cole Valley Fair features food booths, live music, a historic Cole Valley photo display, fine arts and crafts, a full block of vintage cars owned by neighborhood residents, and lots of family-friendly fun. With live music, children’s activities, and local resources, come celebrate Cole Valley with this beloved annual neighborhood event!

Join us at Cole Street between Frederick & Grattan and Parnassus Ave between Shrader & Belvedere!

NOE VALLEY ART FESTIVAL!
 

Sunday, September 22, 10am-4pm: Mark your calendar for the third annual, free to the public Noe Valley Art Festival, featuring 23 artists who will be showcasing and selling photographs, paintings, drawings, multi media art, jewelry, ceramics, fabric art, digital art, and sculpture! Many of the artists are locals who live and work in Noe Valley and the surrounding neighborhoods. The Art Festival provides a great opportunity to support and interact “up close and personal” with artists in the Noe Valley community. Art activities for adults and kids will feature interactive typewriter poetry, friendship bracelet making, drawing activities and face painting! In addition, and new this year, you can stroll down 24th Street on the first-of-its-kind Noe Valley Art Walk where you will be able to see more art displayed at several local businesses. Maps will be provided.

CASTRO STREET FAIR: 50TH ANNIVERSARY!


Sunday, October 6, 11am-6pm: The Castro Street Fair is a community street celebration that was founded by Harvey Milk in 1974. For the last 50 years, on the first weekend of October, the Street Fair has promoted queer-owned businesses and continued Harvey Milk’s legacy. Hundreds of local artists, vendors, craftspeople, and organizations line the streets and celebrate the neighborhood, while stages with live entertainment, DJs, and dance areas are scattered along Castro and Market Streets. Donations are suggested and all proceeds go to charitable causes important to the Castro community. Learn more here!

CASTRO NIGHT MARKETS -- BECOME A VENDOR!


The Castro Night Market is coming soon! Vendor applications for the 1st Castro Night Market are LIVE and open for submission! Submissions are due October 8 to allow time to facilitate permit needs. They are accepting applications for retail and other vendors, food vendors, cooking food vendors, and food trucks. Castro Merchant Association members will receive discounts on application fees as well as booth fees, and businesses with a zip code of 94114 will also receive discounts on booth fees.

Vendors can apply for the Castro Night Market directly via the Vendor portal, or through the event website at www.castronightmarket.com . (FYI, the website is just a landing page for now, but will be updated soon!)

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!


District 8 is home to many active neighborhood groups that organize events for the community, lead projects to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful, and connect neighbors with City leaders to advocate for neighborhood priorities. Join an association or go to an upcoming local event - it’s a great way to get involved, make new friends, and change your community for the better!

Learn more about how to get involved in your neighborhood here!

  • Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association: Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month from 7:00 – 8:00 pm, in the Ballroom of the Harvey Milk Recreation Center for the Arts, lobby level, and preceded by a community social from 6:30 – 7:00 pm.

  • Dolores Heights Improvement Club: Green Gardens group holds monthly clean-ups on the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 – 10:30 am. DHIC Board meets on the second Monday of every other month. Meetings are held via Zoom from 7pm – 8pm. Email info@doloresheights.org to obtain the Zoom meeting link.

  • Upper Noe Neighbors meets every other month on the third Wednesday at the Upper Noe Recreation Center.

  • Castro Art Mart is a monthly street fair on Noe Street between Market and Beaver the first Sunday of every month from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, featuring LGBTQ art from local artists, live music, comedy and drag shows, and more.

  • Castro Art Walk is a monthly community-driven event where local businesses host special events to share art with the neighborhood! Check out their website to learn which businesses are participating and head out to the Castro each month on the first Friday, from 5-8pm!

  • Noe Valley Town Square hosts regular events such as Acoustic Sunday, Rhythm and Motion dance, and Free Sunday Morning Yoga.

Don’t see your neighborhood group but want your information added to our website? Email Henry DeRuff at henry.deruff@sfgov.org.


SFPD STATION CAPTAINS’ MEETINGS


Curious about safety in your neighborhood or have questions for SFPD? Attending your Station Captains’ Meetings is a great way to learn about what’s going on. Captains’ Meetings are at the following times:

  • Park Station (1899 Waller): Fourth Wednesdays at 5PM on Zoom

    • Neighborhoods: Cole Valley, Duboce Triangle, and Twin Peaks

  • Mission Station (630 Valencia): Last Tuesdays at 5PM at Mission Station

    • Neighborhoods: Castro, Mission Dolores, and Noe Valley

  • Ingleside Station (1 Sgt. John V. Young): Third Tuesdays at 6PM at Ingleside Station

    • Neighborhoods: Diamond Heights and Glen Park

Mission Station has a new Captain! We will miss Captain Harvey, but Mission Station is in good hands with Captain Liza Johansen. We know her from her previous work work at Mission Station, and we know that she is responsive and efficient. We’re excited to continue working together with her in the Castro, Mission Dolores, and Noe Valley. You can come meet her at the Mission Station Captain’s Meeting on Tuesday, September 24. Until then, here’s a quick introduction:

Captain Johansen is an 18-year veteran of the San Francisco Police Department. She grew up in the Mission District, specifically lower 24th Street. The rewards and challenges of the district are second nature to her. Captain Johansen worked in the Mission District as a patrol officer, as a lieutenant, and recently returned to the district as Captain. She is thrilled to be home and eager to roll up her sleeves and go to work.
 


SFPD BOUNDARY ANALYSIS UPDATE + FEEDBACK:
 

After several months of data analysis and subject matter expert discussions, the San Francisco Police Department is ready to present a new SFPD District Station boundary map for feedback. This proposed map has 15 changes that aim to increase workload balance across stations and improve police services across the city. These changes affect 8 of the 10 district stations. This process is required to be completed every ten years by our City’s charter.

The next step in the process is to hear from the community. With your input, SFPD will revisit our map proposal and refine our recommendation before submitting to the Police Commission. To see the proposed map and provide feedback by October 15, click here.


311 UPDATE: NOW AVAILABLE IN

CHINESE, SPANISH, AND FILIPINO!
 

From the City Administrator’s Office:

The SF311 mobile app is now available in Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino! Accessing City services has never been easier. Whether you're on Android or iPhone, just a few taps connect you to the services you need. Download the app today. The app will automatically detect your phone’s language.


GRAFFITI ADVISORY BOARD VACANCY


Tired of blight and graffiti in your neighborhood, District 8, and San Francisco as a whole? Apply to be the District 8 representative to the Graffiti Advisory Board today. Fill out the application here by July 31. Once you’ve applied, or if you have questions, please reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org.


VOLUNTEER WITH US!


We are always looking for D8 office volunteers and interns! Specifically, we are looking for interns or volunteers on Tuesday mornings this fall. Volunteering or interning in my office is a great opportunity to serve District 8 and learn about the issues facing our city, gain valuable experience in the legislative branch of local government, and see how elected officials can work with the community to create effective public policy solutions to solve our toughest problems. Sign up here or reach out to anh.v.ha@sfgov.org for more information.

Welcome to Faces in the Crowd, written by Marshall Kilduff, accomplished journalist and long time volunteer with our District 8 Office. Marshall tells the stories of District 8 community members who are going above and beyond to contribute to San Francisco!

What draws a neighborhood crowd and gets the volunteer energy flowing? For Sophie Constantinou, the answer is clear. It’s the sidewalk things near at hand. Think graffiti cleanup, fresh plantings for a rubbish-filled lot, or sewer fixes that prevent flooding. Keep it simple and get real.

She’s the organizing spirit behind the College Hill neighborhood, a locale sitting between better known Bernal Heights and Glen Park. It lies alongside the Bernal Cut, a short run canyon dug in the 1920’s to connect the Mission with outer San Francisco. The geography comes with a pair of bridges, murals, hillside bulkheads, Muni tracks, and speeding cars shooting by small homes and flats. It’s a reflection of the past and present with no pretense.

Don’t bother calling meetings on long range civic plans. “People want local, not big issues,” she says. Sophie and her neighbors focus on the here and now. With a mailing list of 400, there is the energy to take on projects and apply pressure. An unfancy neighborhood has developed clout on her watch.

Graffiti–there’s plenty–means her group calls the Department of Public Works to provide roller brushes and paint. The group doesn’t bother waiting for city crews to do the clean up work. Instead volunteers pick up supplies that include favorite paint colors: garbage can green, feather gray for alley walls, and mailbox blue. There are other everyday improvements on the wish list. A sewer grate at the bottom of the hill that repeatedly floods is due for an overhaul. After that comes a rain garden, a plan to open up the pavement to let the rainfall soak in.

Maybe her pride and joy are the walkways that run at the crest of the Bernal Cut. The public paths once were overgrown, trashy, and dotted with homeless camps. College Hill volunteers went to work with the city’s help to remove overgrown patches, put in native plants, and install solar-powered lighting for the pedestrian routes that run to the Glen Park BART station. It was borderline scary and now it’s used by strollers and shoppers toting groceries. The paths are now part of the Crosstown Trail that showcases the city’s neighborhoods.

One job for neighborhood leaders is urging the city to think more broadly with work projects. In College Hill’s case, take Richland avenue, a semi-racetrack that drivers use to shoot through the area. With a sewer replacement project taking shape, College Hill asked for speed bumps as part of the repair work. Relief from noise and danger is on its way, she believes.

By background Constantinou is a documentary filmmaker. A pending project deals with San Francisco social justice luminaries Rev. Cecil Williams and Janice Mirikitani, who ran Glide Church for decades. The late couple’s shared history must make Constantinou think. Surely her ground level organizing and decades of living here tempt her to weigh a political run? “No way,’ she laughs. “I can’t stand people who complain.’’ Far better to dwell in a corner of the city that unites to make life better.

On September 13th, we celebrated the landmarking of the Gilbert Baker Rainbow Flag at Harvey Milk Plaza! Gilbert Baker created the Rainbow Flag as a symbol of hope for all races, all genders, and all ages. A big thank you to the other members of the Board, who unanimously passed our Gilbert Baker Rainbow Flag Landmarking Ordinance. Thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make this happen, Gilbert's Rainbow Flag will fly above the Castro for generations to come!

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Please Volunteer at Alvord Lake this Saturday, August 24

Please Volunteer this Saturday, August 24 from 10am to Noon

The fourth Saturday of every month offers an opportunity to help beautify the eastern end of Golden Gate Park. Meet at the plaza above the lakelet at Stanyan and Haight Streets. Look for the SFR&P vehicle to determine our location.

Volunteer slots are limited-
so please sign the waiver in the link quickly.

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District 8 July 2024 Newsletter

Happy Summer, District 8!
As we head into the Board’s August summer recess, we hope you’re having a wonderful summer! Though there are no Board meetings until September, our office will still be open. Feel free to reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org, call us at (415) 554-6968, or stop by Room 284 in City Hall. We’ll be happy to help. We hope you enjoy this mini newsletter, and we’ll be back in September with more updates.

MEET YOUR SUPERVISOR: OFFICE HOURS

IN-PERSON OFFICE HOURS: Join me in-person near Dolores Park on Saturday, August 24, from 10AM-12PM! Email mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to reserve a spot and for more details.
 

VICTORIAN ALLIANCE PRESENTS: NOE VALLEY HISTORIC HOME TOUR

Sunday, September 8, 1-5pm: The Victorian Alliance of San Francisco (VASF) is hosting a historic home tour in Noe Valley. Visit seven unique historic homes on a self-guided tour and see how these homes are a part of the neighborhood’s transformation into a new time in San Francisco. The tour is a rare opportunity to see the interiors of these beautiful houses.

The tour showcases seven homes, plus historical sites and legacy businesses in the community. VASF’s docents and Bay Area historians will be located throughout the tour sites to provide historical and architectural details about each home and what makes this neighborhood the beloved place it is. 


PURCHASE TICKETS 
 

The Victorian House Tour is an important event for the VASF as it raises funds for its Grants Committee for restoration and preservation of architecture, landscapes, and artifacts. Click here to learn more about the VASF grants program.
  

GRAFFITI ADVISORY BOARD VACANCY


Tired of blight and graffiti in your neighborhood, District 8, and San Francisco as a whole? Apply to be the District 8 representative to the Graffiti Advisory Board today. Fill out the application here by July 31. Once you’ve applied, or if you have questions, please reach out to mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org.
 


GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!
 

District 8 is home to many active neighborhood groups that organize events for the community, lead projects to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful, and connect neighbors with City leaders to advocate for neighborhood priorities. Join an association or go to an upcoming local event - it’s a great way to get involved, make new friends, and change your community for the better!

Learn more about how to get involved in your neighborhood here!

  • Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association: Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month from 7:00 – 8:00 pm, in the Ballroom of the Harvey Milk Recreation Center for the Arts, lobby level, and preceded by a community social from 6:30 – 7:00 pm.

  • Dolores Heights Improvement Club. Green Gardens group holds monthly clean-ups on the first Saturday of the month from 9:00 – 10:30 am. DHIC Board meets on the second Monday of every other month. Meetings are held via Zoom from 7pm – 8pm. Email info@doloresheights.org to obtain the Zoom meeting link.

  • Upper Noe Neighbors meets every other month on the third Wednesday at the Upper Noe Recreation Center.

  • Castro Art Mart is a monthly street fair on Noe Street between Market and Beaver the first Sunday of every month from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, featuring LGBTQ art from local artists, live music, comedy and drag shows, and more.

  • Noe Valley Town Square hosts regular events such as Acoustic Sunday, Rhythm and Motion dance, and Free Sunday Morning Yoga.

Don’t see your neighborhood group but want your information added to our website? Email Henry DeRuff at henry.deruff@sfgov.org
 


SFPD STATION CAPTAINS’ MEETINGS

Curious about safety in your neighborhood or have questions for SFPD? Attending your Station Captains’ Meetings is a great way to learn about what’s going on. Captains’ Meetings are at the following times:

  • Park Station (1899 Waller): Fourth Wednesdays at 5PM on Zoom

    • Neighborhoods: Cole Valley, Duboce Triangle, and Twin Peaks

  • Mission Station (630 Valencia): Last Tuesdays at 5PM at Mission Station

    • Neighborhoods: Castro, Mission Dolores, and Noe Valley

  • Ingleside Station (1 Sgt. John V. Young): Third Tuesdays at 6PM at Ingleside Station

    • Neighborhoods: Diamond Heights and Glen Park


VOLUNTEER WITH US!

We are always looking for D8 office volunteers and interns! Volunteering or interning in my office is a great opportunity to serve District 8 and learn about the issues facing our city, gain valuable experience in the legislative branch of local government, and see how elected officials can work with the community to create effective public policy solutions to solve our toughest problems. Sign up here or reach out to calvin.ho@sfgov.org for more information.


NEW STAFF MEMBER: ANH HA

Here’s a message from Ahn:

Hi District 8!

I'm excited to be the newest legislative assistant on Supervisor Mandelman's team. I recently joined in mid-July and have been focusing on learning the job with help from my amazing co-workers!

I have lived in the Bay Area for the past eleven years and have been a D8 resident since 2017. Previously, my focus has been on my immediate neighborhood – shoutout to the Castro LGBTQ Cultural District and the Castro Art Walk – but I am eager to be involved in other parts of the district and to meet more community members.

For the past two years I have been consulting for small businesses as well as starting my own sustainable lifestyle brand. Before that, I worked in different industries including political communications, commercial real estate, residential mortgages, and software design. You might guess that I'm a jack of all trades, which I think will aid me in this role!

You can often find me in the district enjoying the parks, rock climbing, going to art shows, and spending time with my friends and family.

Looking forward to meeting you all! Feel free to reach me at anh.v.ha@sfgov.org

Cheers,
Anh

P.S. Here's a photo of me and my new boss on a hike recently!

The city needs more dirt than asphalt. It could also use a more knit-together feel that can sometimes be missing in its hilly, divided terrain. Bob Siegel is on a mission to solve these issues. He’s the determined force behind the 17-mile Crosstown Trail.

It runs from Candlestick Point in the city’s southeast to the water’s edge above the old Sutro Baths. Determined hikers can travel the distance in a day while more casual strollers can drop in for a partial stretch. It’s mapped out on https://crosstowntrail.org, which was created by Siegel and his helpers. Just recently, on the fifth anniversary of the trail, Bob and the Parks Alliance announced a second pathway running from Fort Funston near the zoo to North Beach: the Double Cross Trail. Grab your Hokas, San Francisco.

A Peace Corps volunteer who backpacked through Africa, Siegel spotted an opportunity when he moved here. The trim, 80-something outdoor enthusiast worked on the still-emerging Bay Ridge Trail and decided the city could fashion its own link. Building on city support, he went to work, walking sidewalks, parks and preserves. He found something stunning: everywhere he went there was support. Laguna Honda welcomed a stretch behind its midtown hospital. The well-off Forest Hill neighborhood didn’t object to newcomers wandering through. A string of city, state, and federal agencies agreed with his idea and skipped the red tape.

The result is a city on full display. Hawks in the sky and wildflowers on hillsides. When the trail hits the streets there are coffee spots and bookstores. Stairways and hilltop vistas are slipped in. The trail hosts birthdays, dates, and youth groups looking for an outdoor challenge. Its popularity got a boost during the Covid shutdown, when people needed a release from cooped up living quarters.

In a city where bureaucracy can rule, Siegel was surprised. “There was no pushback. It was wonderful how people supported the idea.” The project proves another lesson for would-be activists. “It pays to be a self starter, something I learned in the Peace Corps.” Though the city had plans for a public trail, the idea languished until Siegel and friends ran with it. “It never would have happened otherwise,” he said.

The original trail just grazes District 8, running through Glen Park and Twin Peaks. The forthcoming second trail, however, will shoot down from Twin Peaks, past Mount Olympus, and through Buena Vista Park, Adah’s Stairway, and Duboce Park on its way to Civic Center.

Siegel’s homegrown idea has taken root elsewhere, making him a celebrity on the wool sock circuit. He’s in touch with Boston, which is planning a 27 mile walkway, and Seattle, where there are plans for a 31 mile path. Crowded, busy cities are finding a way to relax and enjoy themselves.

On July 24th, we gathered to celebrate SFPD members who have earned leadership promotions over the last few years. In an incredibly challenging environment for policing nationally and locally, these folks have been doing the hard work of reforming the department while at the same time maintaining and strengthening its efficacy as a crime-fighting organization. Thank you, promotees!

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Please Volunteer at Alvord Lake this Saturday, July 27, 2024

Please Volunteer this Saturday, 
July 27, 2024
10am - Noon
The fourth Saturday of every month
offers an opportunity to help beautify
the eastern end of Golden Gate Park.
 Meet at the plaza above the lakelet
at Stanyan and Haight Streets.
Look for the SFR&P vehicle to determine our location.

Volunteer slots are limited-
so please sign the waiver in the link quickly.

The link below will take you to the SFR&P Calendar.
Scroll until you find the "Alvord Lake Task Force" listing.
(We are in District 1-Horticulture Maintenance.)

https://sfrpd.secure.force.com/SFRPDCalendar

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Walk San Francisco Newsletter

It’s been ten years since San Francisco adopted Vision Zero: a proven, preventative approach to end severe and fatal crashes. Now, the City is looking at how it will approach Vision Zero in the coming years.

The SFMTA has an online public survey about Vision Zero open until August 9. Don’t delay, please take a few minutes to read our guidance on the survey and submit your responses today. 

We need to show that many San Franciscans care about Vision Zero and want to see more meaningful changes on our streets to keep us safe. 

On July 2, we went to Sacramento to go big in our support for SB 961, which would require all new vehicles in California to include technology that alerts drivers when they’re going >10 MPH over the speed limit. 

It was a long and emotional day, but SB 961 made it out of the Privacy and Consumer Protections Committee and will now go to the full Assembly for a vote after what *should* be a perfunctory stop in the Appropriations Committee.

Kick off your fall with an epic hiking adventure where all you have to do is show up!

Tickets for the 20th annual Peak2Peak on Saturday, September 7, are now on sale! If you think after 20 years we can’t come up with a route that will take you by surprise, you’re wrong! This year’s Peak2Peak trades out some classics for lesser-known peaks and paths that will make you fall in love with the city all over again.

Peak2Peak is always a blast and always sells out. Your ticket purchase directly supports Walk SF’s lifesaving work for safe streets. 

On Tuesday, July 16, the SFMTA Board will vote on proposed plans for safety improvements in the West Portal neighborhood. The proposed plan includes a new pedestrian plaza in front of West Portal Station, pedestrian safety zones at crosswalks, and traffic calming throughout the neighborhood. 

Walk SF is supporting the plan, while also urging the SFMTA Board to include key elements to strengthen safety. This includes making Lenox Avenue one-way (which runs next to an elementary school, park, and library), keeping proposed turn restrictions (with a plan for enforcing this with drivers), and building an inviting plaza for the community. 

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