SF politics

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California begins laying high-speed rail tracks, with future federal funding in question

California's high-speed rail project is progressing with initial groundwork despite political challenges and criticisms concerning funding and efficiency.
#traffic-safety

Commentary: Why do Leaders Only React to Traffic Violence When it Comes from Terrorists? - Streetsblog San Francisco

The focus should shift from understanding perpetrators' motives to implementing harm reduction strategies in traffic safety.

OPINION: Vision Zero Begins with Drivers Simply Sharing the Road - Streetsblog USA

Drivers must fulfill their civic duty to share the road responsibly to ensure pedestrian safety.
Despite efforts like Vision Zero, pedestrian fatalities in Seattle remain alarmingly high.

Commentary: Why do Leaders Only React to Traffic Violence When it Comes from Terrorists? - Streetsblog San Francisco

The focus should shift from understanding perpetrators' motives to implementing harm reduction strategies in traffic safety.

OPINION: Vision Zero Begins with Drivers Simply Sharing the Road - Streetsblog USA

Drivers must fulfill their civic duty to share the road responsibly to ensure pedestrian safety.
Despite efforts like Vision Zero, pedestrian fatalities in Seattle remain alarmingly high.
moretraffic-safety

Superior court judge, city attorney and numerous local prosecutors among applicants to succeed recalled District Attorney Pamela Price

Alameda County is selecting a new District Attorney following Pamela Price's recall, with a public and transparent process expected before the February 4 swearing-in.
#san-francisco

Inauguration of Daniel Lurie as SF Mayor on Wednesday to Include Civic Center Ceremony, Chinatown Celebrations

Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie will officially become San Francisco's mayor on January 8, with significant celebrations highlighting community engagement and cultural symbolism.

Golden Globe winner shouts out San Francisco comedy club in acceptance speech

Ali Wong credits San Francisco's comedy scene for her success after winning a Golden Globe award.

The 2024 election is over. What will San Francisco's big-money groups do next?

The coalition aimed to reshape San Francisco politics through significant financial investments, ultimately resulting in a politically fractured outcome with new leadership.
Despite not backing the mayor-elect, donor groups plan to continue their vision of changing city governance and removing progressive influence.

Exit interview: London Breed says she'll be remembered as San Francisco's 'crisis mayor'

London Breed reflects on her tenure as San Francisco mayor, emphasizing responsibility, urban improvements, and acceptance of electoral outcomes.

Serial car burglar to receive plea deal over San Francisco prosecutors' objections

Repeat offenders in San Francisco continue to receive lenient plea deals from judges, undermining efforts for accountability within the criminal justice system.

Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie taps in SPUR head to oversee infrastructure, climate, and mobility

Daniel Lurie appointed Alicia John-Baptiste as chief of infrastructure, climate, and mobility, aiming for improved governance and sustainability in San Francisco.

Inauguration of Daniel Lurie as SF Mayor on Wednesday to Include Civic Center Ceremony, Chinatown Celebrations

Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie will officially become San Francisco's mayor on January 8, with significant celebrations highlighting community engagement and cultural symbolism.

Golden Globe winner shouts out San Francisco comedy club in acceptance speech

Ali Wong credits San Francisco's comedy scene for her success after winning a Golden Globe award.

The 2024 election is over. What will San Francisco's big-money groups do next?

The coalition aimed to reshape San Francisco politics through significant financial investments, ultimately resulting in a politically fractured outcome with new leadership.
Despite not backing the mayor-elect, donor groups plan to continue their vision of changing city governance and removing progressive influence.

Exit interview: London Breed says she'll be remembered as San Francisco's 'crisis mayor'

London Breed reflects on her tenure as San Francisco mayor, emphasizing responsibility, urban improvements, and acceptance of electoral outcomes.

Serial car burglar to receive plea deal over San Francisco prosecutors' objections

Repeat offenders in San Francisco continue to receive lenient plea deals from judges, undermining efforts for accountability within the criminal justice system.

Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie taps in SPUR head to oversee infrastructure, climate, and mobility

Daniel Lurie appointed Alicia John-Baptiste as chief of infrastructure, climate, and mobility, aiming for improved governance and sustainability in San Francisco.
moresan-francisco
from www.mercurynews.com
11 hours ago

Former Rep. Barbara Lee quietly forms committee to run for Oakland mayor

Barbara Lee is signaling a potential run for mayor of Oakland with her new campaign finance committee.
#local-politics

Lurie takes office-and the supes elect a new board president. Here are the contenders - 48 hills

Mayor Daniel Lurie's inauguration coincides with the Board of Supes meeting to elect a new president, influencing the city's political landscape.
The election of the Board president is pivotal for assigning power dynamics and committee roles between progressives and conservatives.

Edi Birsan's exit from council is the end of a colorful era for Concord politics

Edi Birsan emphasized dialogue and community engagement during his impactful tenure as Concord City Council member before being narrowly defeated in an election.

Day Around the Bay: Mayor Lurie Unveils PR Team

Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie emphasizes continuity by appointing campaign staff to his PR team.
Concerns arise over Trump's second term affecting affordable housing funding in California.

Lurie takes office-and the supes elect a new board president. Here are the contenders - 48 hills

Mayor Daniel Lurie's inauguration coincides with the Board of Supes meeting to elect a new president, influencing the city's political landscape.
The election of the Board president is pivotal for assigning power dynamics and committee roles between progressives and conservatives.

Edi Birsan's exit from council is the end of a colorful era for Concord politics

Edi Birsan emphasized dialogue and community engagement during his impactful tenure as Concord City Council member before being narrowly defeated in an election.

Day Around the Bay: Mayor Lurie Unveils PR Team

Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie emphasizes continuity by appointing campaign staff to his PR team.
Concerns arise over Trump's second term affecting affordable housing funding in California.
morelocal-politics

The Blocks, Strips, and Neighborhoods Carved Out of 'City of Yes'

The modified zoning plan aims to increase housing but is expected to create 25% less than the original proposal, reflecting a compromise.

Oakland's new mayor is Kevin Jenkins - for now

The Oakland City Council underwent significant changes with new members and leadership elected during a chaotic special meeting, aiming for collaborative governance.

How Breed and Lurie are spending final days before SF's mayoral change

Mayor London's Breed's tenure focused on equity and community impact, leaving a legacy as she steps down.

Barbara Lee files papers to run for Oakland mayor

Congresswoman Barbara Lee has opened a campaign account to run for mayor of Oakland, indicating her serious intent to enter the race.

Kevin Jenkins selected to serve as next interim mayor of Oakland amid fire station closures

Oakland's leadership is changing as Kevin Jenkins steps in as interim mayor amidst a budget crisis affecting essential services.
#urban-planning

Newsom says local government at fault for homelessness; here's why he's wrong - 48 hills

California's homelessness crisis persists despite increased funding, with critics arguing that the issue stems from the lack of low-priced housing rather than an overall shortage.

Talking Headways Podcast: Zoning for Vermicelli - Streetsblog USA

Zoning presents an opportunity to reshape communities and is crucial in urban planning.

Anyone Can Redesign a Street. Here's How. - Streetsblog USA

Anyone can contribute to street design using Google Maps and Streetmix, aiding planners and engineers with fresh ideas.

Newsom says local government at fault for homelessness; here's why he's wrong - 48 hills

California's homelessness crisis persists despite increased funding, with critics arguing that the issue stems from the lack of low-priced housing rather than an overall shortage.

Talking Headways Podcast: Zoning for Vermicelli - Streetsblog USA

Zoning presents an opportunity to reshape communities and is crucial in urban planning.

Anyone Can Redesign a Street. Here's How. - Streetsblog USA

Anyone can contribute to street design using Google Maps and Streetmix, aiding planners and engineers with fresh ideas.
moreurban-planning

Gas leak forces evacuation at SF's Laguna Honda Hospital

A gas leak at Laguna Honda Hospital led to a temporary evacuation of employees, resolved swiftly by PG&E.
#aging

Normalizing Aging

Reframing aging positively can enhance well-being and challenge ageist views.

Best of 2024: Rural America Has Non-Drivers, Too - Streetsblog USA

Aging can complicate independence, especially in rural communities reliant on driving for mobility.

Normalizing Aging

Reframing aging positively can enhance well-being and challenge ageist views.

Best of 2024: Rural America Has Non-Drivers, Too - Streetsblog USA

Aging can complicate independence, especially in rural communities reliant on driving for mobility.
moreaging
#affordable-housing

How Santa Clara County divvied up its housing bond dollars - San Jose Spotlight

Measure A has successfully funded the construction of over 5,000 affordable homes in Santa Clara County, addressing a critical housing crisis.

Cupertino renters may get a reprieve from losing their homes - San Jose Spotlight

Cupertino's Housing Commission is advocating for anti-displacement policies to protect residents from rising rental costs and expiring contracts.

Been waiting forever for affordable housing in Toronto? The city's new system could give you a shot | CBC News

Toronto is implementing a new affordable housing lottery prioritizing long-waiting applicants amidst surging demand.

How Santa Clara County divvied up its housing bond dollars - San Jose Spotlight

Measure A has successfully funded the construction of over 5,000 affordable homes in Santa Clara County, addressing a critical housing crisis.

Cupertino renters may get a reprieve from losing their homes - San Jose Spotlight

Cupertino's Housing Commission is advocating for anti-displacement policies to protect residents from rising rental costs and expiring contracts.

Been waiting forever for affordable housing in Toronto? The city's new system could give you a shot | CBC News

Toronto is implementing a new affordable housing lottery prioritizing long-waiting applicants amidst surging demand.
moreaffordable-housing

This Week: French Housing, Happy Hour, Smart City Cycling - Streetsblog San Francisco

Here is a list of events this week.
Got an event we should know about?
Drop us a line.

Minnesota Street Project Presents: "The San Francisco Art Week Party" (2025)

Minnesota Street Project partners with San Francisco Art Week for 2025, showcasing works from The Space Program alumni in the exhibition 'Dark Matter.'

NYC Housing Calendar, Jan. 6-13

City Limits rounds up the latest housing and land use-related events, public hearings and affordable housing lotteries that are ending soon.

Workforce housing real estate firm buys two San Jose apartment complexes

A real estate venture that specializes in creating affordable housing has bought two San Jose apartment complexes.
Originally Published: January 6, 2025 at 7:35 AM PST

Pete Songi on Elon Musk interfering in British politics cartoon

#democratic-party

Meet the 9 new House members from California

California's new Democratic representatives began their term amidst legislative disorder, reflecting a shifting political landscape in the state.

Exclusive | Group launches $7M effort to mobilize Jewish voters for NYC races - including for mayor

Aiming to mobilize Jewish voters in NYC municipal elections through a $7 million campaign focusing on voter registration and turnout.

Meet the 9 new House members from California

California's new Democratic representatives began their term amidst legislative disorder, reflecting a shifting political landscape in the state.

Exclusive | Group launches $7M effort to mobilize Jewish voters for NYC races - including for mayor

Aiming to mobilize Jewish voters in NYC municipal elections through a $7 million campaign focusing on voter registration and turnout.
moredemocratic-party

Elon Musk wades into European politics

Elon Musk wades into political life in several European countries with messages of support for right-wing parties, and attacks on elected leaders.
from ABC7 San Francisco
3 days ago

Warriors coach Steve Kerr receives key to City of San Francisco

Steve Kerr received the key to the city from Mayor London Breed, acknowledging his contributions to basketball and social issues in the community.

Gas leak prompts evacuation in San Francisco neighborhood, SFFD says

A gas leak in San Francisco prompted the evacuation of residents and the setup of temporary shelter.

2025 Heart Sculptures in SF Artists (Jan. 6-Feb. 3)

The San Francisco General Hospital Foundation is thrilled to unveil the 22 newest Heart sculptures from the 2025 Hearts in San Francisco public art

2024 was record-setting year for precipitation at Toronto airport: Environment Canada

OTTAWA'S LRT
Ottawa's new north-south rail line will open to the public on Monday, Jan. 6, connecting downtown Ottawa and Riverside South with a spur to the Ottawa International Airport.

EXCLUSIVE: SF supervisor calls for 'compulsory detox and treatment' for drug users

San Francisco officials propose mass arrests of drug users to enforce compulsory treatment in response to increasing drug-related issues on the streets.
#leadership-appointments

Former SFPD commander will be first-ever chief of Public Safety

Daniel Lurie appointed Paul Yep as Chief of Public Safety, emphasizing community safety coordination and support for law enforcement efforts in San Francisco.

Daniel Lurie unveils communications and community relations team; four out of six hires came from mayoral campaign

Lurie has built a skilled staff team emphasizing public engagement post-election with a mix of campaign veterans and experienced professionals.

Former SFPD commander will be first-ever chief of Public Safety

Daniel Lurie appointed Paul Yep as Chief of Public Safety, emphasizing community safety coordination and support for law enforcement efforts in San Francisco.

Daniel Lurie unveils communications and community relations team; four out of six hires came from mayoral campaign

Lurie has built a skilled staff team emphasizing public engagement post-election with a mix of campaign veterans and experienced professionals.
moreleadership-appointments

Mayor Adams tackles nonprofit payment delays, appoints new executive director | amNewYork

Mayor Eric Adams has appointed Michael Sedillo as the new head of the Mayor's Office of Nonprofit Services to expedite payments and support nonprofits.

Nolan Hicks Takes Over As Streetsblog's Investigative Reporter - Streetsblog New York City

Nolan Hicks joins Streetsblog as an investigative reporter, bringing extensive experience in local government and transportation reporting.

It's About to Get Good! (2025 Housing Market Predictions)

Today, we're releasing our 2025 housing market predictions, and let's just say we're feeling optimistic about the future.

Recession bites as German jobs market faces slowdown ahead of early general election

Germany's labour market remains stable despite economic challenges, as voters prepare for February's early general election.

Dramatic Insurance Spikes Could Tank California's Homeless Housing | KQED

California's solution to homelessness is hindered by skyrocketing insurance costs for supportive housing providers.

Performance: Kim Shuck's Poem Jam Poetry Reading

Free poetry readings showcase diverse voices and experiences.
The event emphasizes community engagement and celebration of Indigenous heritage.
#homelessness

Exit interview: Dean Preston reflects on successes, disinformation, election loss

Dean Preston's five years as San Francisco supervisor were defined by significant achievements in housing and homelessness, especially during the pandemic.

Mission Local staffers pick their favorite stories of 2024

Abigail Van Neely's stories highlight the human impact of homelessness strategies, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives in understanding societal issues.

Exit interview: Dean Preston reflects on successes, disinformation, election loss

Dean Preston's five years as San Francisco supervisor were defined by significant achievements in housing and homelessness, especially during the pandemic.

Mission Local staffers pick their favorite stories of 2024

Abigail Van Neely's stories highlight the human impact of homelessness strategies, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives in understanding societal issues.
morehomelessness

Police investigating deadly shooting in SF's Bernal Heights neighborhood

San Francisco police are investigating a homicide in Bernal Heights with no ongoing threat to the community.

Safety experts detail ways to protect SF's 'entertainment zones' in wake of New Orleans attack

Bay Area officials are increasing police presence in response to the New Orleans truck attack, despite no credible threats reported in the area.

Mallon: How can we make progress on transit during another Trump presidency? - San Jose Spotlight

Although Trump is less vocal on transit issues than Biden, there are still opportunities for progress in public transit funding under his administration.

Ten rounds of voting needed to elect first Portland City Council President

Portland's City Council faced significant ideological divisions during its first meeting, which delayed electing a Council President.

SF Unplugged Hosted By Anthony Arya with Guests The Coffis Brothers

San Francisco Unplugged offers an intimate live music experience featuring top local and national acoustic acts, alongside complimentary cocktails and dining options.
#san-francisco-botanical-garden

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a diverse urban oasis offering free access to residents and specific days for visitors.

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden offers free admission for residents and special days, encouraging accessibility to a diverse collection of plants.

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden showcases diverse plant species and offers free access for residents and on select days to promote community engagement.

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a diverse urban oasis showcasing over 9,000 plant species.

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a diverse urban oasis offering free access to residents and specific days for visitors.

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden offers free admission for residents and special days, encouraging accessibility to a diverse collection of plants.

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden showcases diverse plant species and offers free access for residents and on select days to promote community engagement.

San Francisco Botanical Garden's Free Day (2nd Tuesdays)

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a diverse urban oasis showcasing over 9,000 plant species.
moresan-francisco-botanical-garden
from SFGATE
6 days ago

Woman killed on Great Highway marks the most SF pedestrian deaths in a decade

San Francisco's traffic deaths and pedestrian fatalities have surged in 2023, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the Vision Zero program.

Thousands pack SF for New Year's Eve celebrations and fireworks

Children express innocent excitement for fireworks and New Year's festivities, while adults grapple with political and financial concerns as the year changes.

Vote totals show GOP faces major hurdle to woo black voters: The 'Selma effect'

The disconnect between ideological beliefs and voting behavior among black voters persists, challenging assumptions about racial affiliation in politics.

Drug overdose deaths plummet in San Francisco. What's changed?

Drug overdose deaths in San Francisco dropped sharply in 2024, showing a 23% decrease compared to 2023.

SF Giants' all-2000s team: From Bonds to Lincecum, who cracks the roster?

The San Francisco Giants have had significant achievements, including three World Series titles, and Buster Posey is recognized as the franchise's greatest catcher.

Singer Jason Brock Gives Us Hope for 2025 - San Francisco Bay Times

Jason Brock, an impressive vocalist and X-Factor finalist, is set to perform again in San Francisco after success in Tokyo.

California Stiffens Penalties for Theft, and More Changes Are Coming

California enacts tougher penalties for retail theft and drug offenses, aiming to increase prosecution effectiveness and accountability.

SF Saw Fewest Homicides Since 1960 This Year But Traffic Deaths Hit a 17-Year High

San Francisco achieved its lowest homicide count in 64 years, but traffic deaths surged to a 17-year high.

What did US election officials learn about our democracy from 2024's vote?

There was a significant decrease in public concerns regarding election integrity following the 2024 presidential election results.

Here are the most-read Mission Local stories of 2024

The site saw an impressive 2.44 million unique visitors in the past year, highlighting significant reader engagement.

49ers' Kyle Shanahan, John Lynch Aren't 'Going Anywhere,' amid Struggles, York Says

The 49ers will retain head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch for the 2025 season despite a disappointing 2024.

Dramatic Insurance Spikes Could Tank California's Homeless Housing | KQED

California's solution to homelessness faces risks from rising insurance premiums for supportive housing, potentially jeopardizing efforts to house the unhoused.
#san-francisco-49ers

Monday Night Football: Detroit Lions vs San Francisco 49ers

The Lions aim to secure the #1 seed in the NFC with a win against the eliminated 49ers.

Photo highlights: Last place San Francisco 49ers fall to the Detroit Lions 40-34 in home finale

Brock Purdy wants to play in the final game despite re-injuring his elbow, as the 49ers face disappointing end to a tough season.

Monday Night Football: Detroit Lions vs San Francisco 49ers

The Lions aim to secure the #1 seed in the NFC with a win against the eliminated 49ers.

Photo highlights: Last place San Francisco 49ers fall to the Detroit Lions 40-34 in home finale

Brock Purdy wants to play in the final game despite re-injuring his elbow, as the 49ers face disappointing end to a tough season.
moresan-francisco-49ers

Developers making millions from affordable housing' program lobbied California lawmakers to shut down regulation

With their lucrative 'middle-income housing' deals under threat, developers spent thousands lobbying legislators who wanted to regulate the program out of existence.
@JamesJalaPayneo / Upcoming changes in SF for 2025

San Francisco's new political motto is 'throw the bums out' - The San Francisco Standard

Two years ago, a political earthquake struck San Francisco - one that from our perch in the future feels like an early tremor.
@JamesJalaPayneo / Upcoming changes in SF for 2025

Elections, raids, sweeps, protests: Here are the top 10 Bay Area stories of 2024

Coming into 2024, the election was widely expected to dominate headlines both locally and nationally.That certainly happened in the Bay Area, where the story unfolded in often surprising ways.
@JamesJalaPayneo / Changes Coming to SF in 2025

Breed wasn't afraid to take risks' as 'crisis mayor'

She didn't know it yet, but San Francisco Mayor London Breed's days in office were numbered when she visited Sunnydale in October to celebrate the opening of a new community center, replete with a Boys and Girls Club, community kitchen and even a recording studio.
@JamesJalaPayneo / Changes Coming to SF in 2025

Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie names six key City Hall staffers, including well-known philanthropist

As the Jan. 8 inauguration day approaches, incoming Mayor Daniel Lurie named another six key City Hall staffers including a philanthropist as chief of protocol and a legislative aide as the liaison to the Board of Supervisors.
@JamesJalaPayneo / Changes Coming to SF in 2025

Incoming Mayor Lurie names five new staffers including key S.F. City Hall insiders

Soon-to-be mayor Daniel Lurie unveiled a list of new appointees in his administration Thursday, including a number of City Hall insiders.

How Democrats Lost the Working Class

Union voters increasingly support Republicans despite Democratic efforts to promote labor policies.
Growing dissatisfaction among union members signals a need for Democratic parties to regain trust.
#campaign-finance

Opinion: We cannot allow the matching funds program to be sidelined in 2025

New York City's matching funds program empowers diverse candidates and enhances democratic representation by significantly increasing participation among women and people of color.

2024 Wrapped: The Year's Biggest Election News

Multnomah County voters embraced change by electing new political leaders, signaling a shift in local governance and potential new policies.

Opinion: We cannot allow the matching funds program to be sidelined in 2025

New York City's matching funds program empowers diverse candidates and enhances democratic representation by significantly increasing participation among women and people of color.

2024 Wrapped: The Year's Biggest Election News

Multnomah County voters embraced change by electing new political leaders, signaling a shift in local governance and potential new policies.
morecampaign-finance

Shifts in Los Angeles County opinion on criminal justice, new analysis reveals

California and LA are tightening crime penalties with the approval of Proposition 36, reversing the 2014 trend toward criminal justice reform.

NYC Housing Calendar, Dec. 30-Jan. 6

The City Planning Commission will meet next Monday, and a dozen of the city's rental housing lotteries will close to applicants this week.
Here's the roundup.
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