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MESSAGE FROM CATHERINE






As summer transitions to fall, I hope you all enjoyed moments of rejuvenation, recreation, and rest. During the August legislative recess, I joined the San Francisco Police Department to announce an action plan combating car break-ins, stood in solidarity with dialysis healthcare workers pushing for good faith bargaining, and met with community members and local businesses to discuss pressing issues facing the District.


The Board returned to the Chambers this September, and I began the fall session by introducing legislation aimed at enhancing the transparency, accountability, and effectiveness of San Francisco’s contracted Community Based Organizations (CBOs) – the nonprofits responsible for producing essential City services. I look forward to this initiative and more to come during the next few months!


If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out at
mailto:[email protected]?subject=
[email protected] or 415-554-7752.


Sincerely,






Nonprofit Accountability Legislation


This September, I introduced landmark legislation aimed at bringing additional accountability to the City’s contracted nonprofits that we rely on for key City functions, including but not limited to housing, shelter, mental health, and crisis intervention programs. This bill centralizes responsibility with the City Controller to establish standardized performance criteria and requirements, ensuring measurable objectives, and it will require fiscal audits for organizations receiving more than $750,000 in City funds.


Currently, the City maintains contracts with over 600 nonprofits across dozens of departments, accounting for approximately $1.7 billion in funding. The absence of uniform guidelines across City departments managing these contracts often results in redundant requirements for nonprofits and operational inefficiencies during contract management and evaluation. I look forward to working with various City departments, the City Attorney’s Office, and CBOs to pass this bill. Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every taxpayer dollar is allocated judiciously and accounted for, and that our nonprofit partners uphold the highest standards of performance and accountability.


HealthRight 360 Audit
In August 2023, our city saw a heartbreaking 84 overdose deaths, tying a local record high. This brings the total number of lives lost in 2023 to 563. That is an average of 5 deaths every two days in San Francisco alone. Meanwhile, first responders, at the forefront of this crisis, have voiced frustration that the detox centers we fund are turning away people in crisis – leaving countless lives at risk.


Despite allocating hundreds of millions of public dollars to HealthRight 360 for lifesaving detox services, we have not met the Treatment on Demand mandate from voters. This September, I asked that the City Controller immediately audit HealthRight 360’s Medical Detox contract so that we can discern whether or not those services are being provided in compliance with the terms of the agreement. If they’re not, we must intervene now to ensure compliance and the effective utilization of our public funds. I will continue to do all that I can to improve access to recovery for those suffering from Substance Use Disorders.


SFPD Coverage at the Palace of Fine Arts



In August, I stood alongside District Attorney Brooke Jenkins and SFPD Chief Bill Scott at the iconic Palace of Fine Arts to unveil a robust initiative aimed at cracking down on smash-and-grab car break-ins. Thanks to a resounding call for more substantial public safety investments, SFPD finally has the staffing levels and funds to allow this program to be implemented. I’m grateful to our law enforcement partners for sending a clear message that this neighborhood is finally getting the coverage it deserves.


Encouraging Storefront Activations




I am proud to co-sponsor the proposed “Citywide Expansion of Allowable Commercial, Restaurant, and Retail Uses” ordinance, aimed at easing regulatory hurdles small businesses face when trying to establish new storefronts. This legislation fosters an environment where small businesses can flourish while enhancing the city's commercial landscape by simplifying the permitting process, diversifying usable spaces, and bolstering ground-floor business opportunities. I have always been committed to seeing small businesses thrive and we can help do that by creating more resilient and diverse merchant corridors in San Francisco.


Marina Improvement and Remediation Project


The East Harbor in the Marina and its adjacent area require remediation to address the presence of toxic sediment left behind by
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historical manufactured gas plants , aiming to eliminate the exposed contaminants. To do so, the City and PG&E entered a
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Final Settlement Agreement in 2021 to ensure that PG&E shoulders a significant majority of the cost for the clean up. The Recreation and Park Department (RPD) is coordinating with other City, regional, State, and Federal agencies to implement
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a project that accomplishes needed environmental remediation, refurbishes Marina amenities, increases public access to the water, and ensures a fiscally sustainable marina for decades. Please
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read the FAQs on the project for more information and for more opportunities to provide feedback to project teams.


My husband and I co-own a boat slip in the East Harbor, which will be directly affected by the remediation project. Under the Political Reform Act, a public official may not participate in nor use their position to influence a governmental decision when it is reasonably foreseeable that the decision will have a material impact on their personal finances. Separately, under the Campaign and Governmental Conduct Code, an official may not use "his or her public position or office to seek or obtain anything of value for the private or professional benefit of himself or herself, his or her immediate family." As such, the City Attorney’s office has advised that I recuse myself from any discussion, votes, or governmental decisions related to this remediation project.


I recognize that many wish to submit feedback on the project proposals. You may voice your concerns regarding the project to the
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Recreation and Park Commission – one of many agencies that will oversee this remediation project. The Department contact for the project is Monica Scott (
mailto:[email protected]?subject=
[email protected] ). In addition, you may voice your concerns regarding the project to the Recreation and Park Commission. The Commission is just one of many agencies that will have oversight over this project. You can learn more
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HERE .


You may also reach out to
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other members of the Board of Supervisors to voice your concerns, and to the
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Mayor’s Office .


Later this fall, the RPD project team will host another round of community engagement and information sessions to gather public feedback on prospective designs, and an environmental review of the project will start sometime next year. There will be two RPD hearings on this issue, one on October 4th at 2 PM at the RPD Capital Committee and one on October 19th at 10 AM at the RPD Commission. Learn more about those department meetings
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here !



Standing with Health Workers




I was proud to stand in solidarity with SEIU-United Health Workers at an organized demonstration outside one of the dialysis clinics in District 2. Dialysis workers are currently grappling with issues of understaffing, excessive workloads, and inadequate compensation. It's crucial that we recognize the dedication of these life-saving healthcare workers and work toward providing them with the better conditions they deserve.


Refuse Refuse SF Cleanup




Thank you to Refuse Refuse SF for organizing regular cleanups throughout the City and District 2. My office was thrilled to join volunteers for a morning clean-up in Laurel Heights and help to beautify the neighborhood.


To learn more about the organization and to join for a cleanup, visit
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refuserefusesf.org .


Pre-Labor Day Breakfast




I was proud to attend the annual Pre-Labor Day Breakfast organized by the San Francisco Labor Council. I will always stand firmly behind workers who choose to strike in their pursuit of fair and just wages. Thank you to everyone who plays a pivotal role in advancing the labor movement. Your dedication and efforts are greatly appreciated.


Labor Day Rally with SEIU-United Health Workers




I joined SEIU-United Health Workers this Labor Day at a rally to fight for a fair contract with Kaiser Permanente. As someone who comes from a family of healthcare workers, I know the importance of the services they provide to patients and our community. Increasing our investment in caregivers is crucial for tackling the patient care crisis!


SF Transit Month




September is San Francisco Transit Month and I recently had the opportunity to join the SF Transit Riders for a Muni ride, followed by a subsequent rally at City Hall. Public transportation is critical to our city’s continued economic recovery. We must do all that we can to ensure that transit is accessible, reliable, and safe for all riders.


To learn more, visit
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sftransitriders.org .


Ninth Annual Chinatown Night Out




I was honored to be a part of the 9th Annual Chinatown Night Out gathering. It’s essential we continue to safeguard our AAPI members and ensure public safety for all. Seeing the city come together to support our AAPI community is heartening and I’m grateful to the event organizers and our dedicated first responders for all that they do.


Honoring Our September 11th Heroes




This September 11th, I joined San Francisco’s first responders to honor the selfless heroes who sacrificed their lives 22 years ago. Their acts of valor and courage on that fateful day will never be forgotten.


Kicking Off Fleet Week




I am thrilled to kick off Fleet Week in San Francisco with organizations and partners who make this annual event a possibility. It’s always an honor to welcome members of our Armed Forces to our city.


Plan your trip to this year’s Fleet Week by visiting
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fleetweeksf.org .


Youth Commissioner Allister Adair




I want to congratulate Commissioner Allistair Adair on his reappointment to the San Francisco Youth Commission. His unwavering dedication to District 2 is truly commendable, and I look forward to our continued partnership in shaping a brighter future for our youth and the next generation.


Heritage Happy Hour




San Francisco Heritage and the San Francisco Legacy Business Program are two entities that help preserve the city’s unique identity. I was glad to join them for a happy hour at the historic Buena Vista Cafe. Thank you to all who attended and to the Buena Vista staff for hosting!


To learn more about SF Heritage, visit
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sfheritage.org .


To learn more about the Legacy Business Program, visit
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legacybusiness.org .


Small Sites Project at 1130 Filbert




I'm delighted to announce the successful completion of 1130 Filbert. This project, originally located in District 2 and now within District 3, has been instrumental in safeguarding our vulnerable, long-term senior tenants from the looming threat of eviction. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my dedicated staff, the San Francisco Community Land Trust, the Mayor's Office of Housing & Community Development, and the tireless tenant advocates whose collaborative efforts have made this achievement possible.


Gum Moon Luncheon




I joined Gum Moon at their annual luncheon and celebrated the organization's critical work to uplift Asian American and Pacific Islander women. Congratulations on their recognition and 155 years of service to the community!


Learn more about Gum Moon by visiting
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gummoon.org .




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Presidio Blvd. Closure

September 18th - 28th between 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM




Please be advised that a section of Presidio Blvd. between Simmonds Loop and the Presidio Gate will be closed to cars, pedestrians, and cyclists from Monday, September 18 to Thursday, September 28 from 8 AM and 3 PM. This closure is necessary to allow the Presidio Forestry crews to safely remove trees and branches that fell during the intense winter storms and perform hazard mitigation pruning. Please review detour routes and plan to take alternate routes during the closure. The roadway will be reopened Friday morning through Sunday evening and each day after work hours. Muni service will not be impacted.


Helping Individuals in Crisis


The City of San Francisco has launched an educational campaign focused on helping the public understand what to do when they see someone in crisis on the street. We want people to know what to do,
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who to call , and how
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specialized street response teams work together to meet the needs of those in need of help. Learn more about the program by visiting
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sf.gov/okaytocall .



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Participate in A Survey to Shape San Francisco's Future Housing Plan


Your input is needed– help shape your neighborhood's housing future by taking a survey provided by San Francisco Planning! San Francisco faces a housing affordability crisis, and state regulations demand the construction of 36,000 new housing units by 2031. Complete the survey before October 1 for a chance to win a $50 Visa gift card.


Take the survey at
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surveymonkey.com/r/housingchoice .


Learn more about the Expanding Housing Choice program at
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sfplanning.org/project/expanding-housing-choice#housing-element .



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Off the Grid at Fort Mason Center


September 1st - October 27th


Off the Grid at Fort Mason Center is back! From September 1 to October 27, join over eight themed food parties and experience diverse offerings from the Bay Area's top food trucks and pop-ups, accompanied by live music, dance performances, a full bar, and more. Check out the full lineup
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here .



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Neighbors Night at NEON


Thursday, September 26th, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM


Join NEON for Neighbor Night with Habitat for Humanity of Greater San Francisco. Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco builds homes and sustains affordable homeownership opportunities for families in Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo counties. Tickets for this event are $10 and all proceeds go directly to Habitat for Humanity.


RSVP today at
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eventbrite.com/e/neighbors-night-september-edition-habitat-for-humanity-tickets-721517045907 .



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San Francisco Fleet Week


Monday, October 2nd - Tuesday, October 10th




San Francisco Fleet Week is the annual public event that honors the contributions of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Come enjoy the parade of ships, community events, and other shows taking place during the week!


Learn more about the scheduled events during Fleet Week at
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fleetweeksf.org .



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Italian Heritage Month Events


October 2023




Join me in celebrating Italian Heritage Month with a vibrant festival that embraces the Italian community’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and captivating traditions. Immerse yourself in fun events filled with lively music, mouthwatering food, and the October 8th parade that pays tribute to Italy's contributions to art, history, and food.


Learn more about the Italian Heritage events at
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sfitalianheritage.org/events .



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Awning Amnesty Program


This temporary process allows property owners to obtain awning permits for existing awnings without needing a licensed contractor, and it addresses violations for unpermitted awnings. While no fees apply to these permits, certain state and local fees might still be relevant. New awnings or installations must follow standard procedures with licensed contractors, and this temporary process is valid until June 1, 2024, requiring completion of permits within a year.


Learn more at
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sf.gov/awningamnesty .



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APEC 2023 in San Francisco


November 12th - 18th


This November, San Francisco will be hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Meeting, which will be the biggest global event hosted by our city in recent years. We expect approximately 30,000 delegates from across 21 APEC Member Economies, 1,200 CEOs from around the world, and 600 media representatives for this 30th annual event.


With so many world leaders in San Francisco, we have a unique opportunity to showcase our city's unique and diverse small businesses and welcome delegates worldwide to our fabulous commercial corridors and cultural districts. The Office of Small Business is working closely with other agencies and organizations ahead of this event. We will continue to share updates and you can reach out with questions at
mailto:[email protected]?subject=
[email protected] .




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Supes worry that San Francisco’s detox resources are falling short


San Francisco Examiner | August 2, 2023

“‘What I hear time and time again is there’s no easy way to get people into treatment after hours,” said Stefani. ‘With the detox, it seems like beds aren’t readily available, and there’s nowhere to go other than the hospital, but that doesn’t always work either.’”



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‘This has to stop’: S.F. police to use new tactic to crack down on car break-ins

San Francisco Chronicle | August 24, 2023

“‘Stefani said she is ‘very excited’ that recent budget increases could fund the added officers and bait cars, calling them a turning point in the city’s battle against auto burglary. ‘I think when the criminals wake up in the morning and decide where they’re going to go in S.F., the message is clear: Don’t come here, because we are staffed up, and we are going to make sure that any time you are trying to break into a car here, you will be caught and you will be prosecuted.’”



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San Francisco Lawmaker Calls for Audit of City’s Biggest Drug Treatment Nonprofit

San Francisco Standard | September 5, 2023

“HealthRight 360 temporarily paused intakes to its withdrawal management program due to a reported Covid outbreak on Thursday, infuriating Supervisor Catherine Stefani, who called for an immediate audit at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting. Stefani asked the San Francisco Controller’s Office to investigate HealthRight 360’s ability to adequately staff its withdrawal management program, which has 48 beds funded through a $37 million-a-year city contract.”



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San Francisco Gives $1.7B to Nonprofits. This Lawmaker Wants Audits

San Francisco Standard | September 12, 2023

“Stefani’s legislation would require nonprofits that receive contracts worth at least $750,000 in a fiscal year to submit balance sheets audited by an outside accounting firm. The City Controller’s Office would be given additional powers to monitor the financial dealings of nonprofits, and the city would also be forced to put firmer rules in place to include ‘measurable objectives’ in contracts.”



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New S.F. plan to mandate audits of city nonprofits with billions at stake


San Francisco Chronicle | September 12, 2023

“Supervisor Catherine Stefani proposed legislation Tuesday that would mandate auditing of the more than 600 nonprofit organizations that hold city contracts, including HealthRight 360, the drug treatment provider she called out for an audit last week.”



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Supervisor wants better ways to track city-funded nonprofits

San Francisco Examiner | September 12, 2023

“San Francisco pours more than $1 billion into nonprofits, which in turn deliver a dizzying array of social services to city residents. But are those organizations doing a good job? A new bill introduced by Supervisor Catherine Stefani aims to at least help begin to answer that question.”












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WEBSITE
Office of Supervisor Catherine Stefani

1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 273, San Francisco, CA 94102

Phone: (415) 554-7752 Fax: (415) 554-7843





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