Supervisor Melgar 07272023 Newsletter

Dear Neighbors,

As the Board of Supervisors’ legislative session comes to a close, I am excited to celebrate all that we have accomplished this year. From trailblazing housing legislation, to a balanced budget, and new programs to make our streets safer, the wins for District 7 are plenty! These accomplishments would not have been possible without the shared passion, hard work, and determination of each and every member of our community. Your steadfast dedication to our mission has been the driving force behind the success we proudly celebrate today.

There are undoubtedly more challenges ahead, but with the strength of our unity and the depth of our resolve, there is no goal beyond our reach. In the coming year, I will continue to fight for housing for all income levels on the West Side, increased public safety, and transportation that works for all. Thank you all for your continued dedication and contributions to our shared vision.

As we move forward, I want to assure you that my office remains open during the August recess to address any of your needs or concerns. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 415-554-6516 or via email at MelgarStaff@sfgov.org if you require assistance.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and I hope you all have a wonderful rest of your summer!

Sincerely,
Myrna

TABLE OF NEWSLETTER CONTENTS

Legislative and Project Updates
In the Community
Upcoming Events
District 7 in the News
Constituent Success Corner

LEGISLATIVE AND PROJECT UPDATES

BUDGET SEASON CONCLUDES

This month, the Board of Supervisors approved the budget for Fiscal Years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. Supervisor Melgar played a pivotal role in restoring funds that appeared to be cut in the Mayor’s first proposed budget, although she did not sit on the budget committee this year. Citywide priorities such as Community Ambassadors, Downtown recovery efforts, and public safety programs such as Police and Street Crisis Teams were also well funded.

In 2018, a proposition passed by voters - nicknamed Baby C - paved the way towards universal child care in San Francisco. The Baby C funds had been tied up in the court system until 2021 when the funds were released, but the Mayor’s budget proposed to use $30 million of baseline funding for child care to solve for the budget deficit. There was also a separate tax reform proposal which would have reduced funding for childcare by over $110 million over the next several years. Along with childcare providers and advocates, Supervisor Melgar successfully championed defeating the tax proposal and negotiated a resolution that did not alter the baseline funding for child care while allowing $30 million in accrued interest in the fund to be used to close the budget gap instead.
Existing funds for family and Transitional Age Youth housing were also proposed to be moved despite the wishes of voters who enacted a different Prop C. This was another priority for Supervisor Melgar to resolve positively.
Supervisor Melgar also ensured that there was funding for District 7 Youth Council, and a potential Safe Parking Site to relocate the RVs, funding for a buyback program to replace gas powered landscaping equipment with more environmental options.
District 7’s unique Participatory Budget program continues to be funded.

The board also added back $2.5 million for rent subsidies for low income seniors, restored funds for immigrant civic participation, building code inspections so tenants can get important repairs, and funding to the Public Defender’s office for proactive programs to end the cycle of crime and promote public safety. The negotiated budget was signed by the Mayor on July 26.

FAMILY HOUSING OPPORTUNITY ACT PASSED WITH UNANIMOUS SUPPORT

Supervisor Melgar’s “Family Housing Opportunity” legislation unanimously passed the Board of Supervisors. The legislation creates a Special Use District mostly on the Westside to make it easier for homeowners to add up to four units on their lots. The goal is to allow homeowners the opportunity to expand their homes with less process to support multi-generational living, downsizing, or for a rental unit. Without raising heights, this legislation allows for more housing options while aligning with the goals of Westside neighborhoods that generally want to keep the family-friendly characteristics. The program is limited to “Well-Resourced Neighborhoods” as defined by the State Department of Housing and Community Development map.

San Francisco is required to come up with ways to add more housing as described in the Housing Element and reduce delays in issuing permits. The Family Housing Opportunity ordinance is one more tool towards that goal.

HOMELESS SHELTER HOTLINE REINSTATED

Last year, Supervisor Melgar amended the Place for All legislation to create a shelter registration phone line so that homeless people across the city could be on a waitlist to request a bed. The City’s 311 line used to offer reservations for a bed, but that was discontinued during COVID. Supervisor Melgar listened to homeless advocates and residents who pointed out that homeless services are concentrated in certain Eastern neighborhoods and having to travel only to be turned away was an onerous barrier for homeless people seeking to get off the streets.

We are proud to say that since the phone waitlist reopened on July 5, 2023 that demand has surged. 124 people across the city used the call in number and now 113 are on a waiting list for a spot in our crowded shelters. The list for shelter is expected to grow even more as word gets out. If you come across someone who might want to get on the waitlist please inform them to call 628-652-8000 or go to tinyurl.com/adultsheltersf.

IN THE COMMUNITY

PARTICIPATORY BUDGET WINNING PROPOSALS

This year, we had more than 20 Participatory Budgeting applications to improve our neighborhoods across District 7. Thanks to the tireless work community advocates, the community review committee, department staff, and my office, we have our winners!!

FOUR SEASONS MARKET OPEN FOR BUSINESS

This sweet little market is now open for business on West Portal Avenue where the old Ambassador Toys used to be. It is well stocked, bright and airy. They have a butcher, and I found pomegranate molasses and rosewater there! I spoke with Jamal and Abdullah, the co-owners who told me how impressed they are with how friendly West Portal neighbors are.

DR. DAVID SANCHEZ WAY AT ZC GENERAL HOSPITAL

Grateful for the community as we met to celebrate the naming of Dr. David Sanchez Way at ZC General Hospital. Thank you to Barbara and the family for sharing wonderful memories of this amazing San Franciscan!

HAVELOCK BRIDGE RIBBON CUTTING

The Havelock Bridge has long been in a state of neglect, disrepair, and blight. When neighbors came to me asking for solutions, I was eager to help. This week we cut the ribbon on a reimagined Havelock Bridge with a mural, a touch of maintenance, and a brighter future. We also advocated for additional funding from the state, and I’m happy to report that Assemblymember Ting added $500,000 for ongoing Havelock Bridge maintenance. Thank you to Assemblymember Ting, Christine Weibel, SF Public Works, Neil Ballard, and the Sunnyside Neighborhood Association for all you do for our neighborhoods!

UPCOMING EVENTS

LAGUNA HONDA COMMUNITY TRAIL PROJECT

The Laguna Honda Community Trail Project officially started in January 2017 and has been generously funded by former Supervisor Yee’s District 7 Participatory Budget, the San Francisco Community Challenge Grant, the California Trails and Greenways Foundation, REI, and other local community supporters. The project is improving the historic multi-use trails on the grounds of the Laguna Honda Hospital and Rehabilitation Center. This project has created/restored over 3 miles of multi-use trails that complements Twin Peaks, Mount Sutro and the other neighboring trail systems and open spaces. Hikers, joggers, and mountain bikers are welcomed. They meet the second Saturday of every month from 9 AM-1 PM (weather permitting) at Laguna Honda Hospital (see meeting location map here).

IN THE CITY

World Cup Watch Party – USA vs Netherlands
Wednesday, July 26 (3:45PM - 8PM)
@Embarcadero Plaza

Aloha by the Bay
Saturday, July 29th (12PM – 6PM)
@Japantown Peace Plaza

DUE South 2023
Saturday, July 29th (2PM – 6PM)
@Jerry Garcia Amphitheatre, McLaren Park

Orchids in the Park
Saturday-Sunday, July 29-30th (10AM – 5PM)
@Counry Fair Building

CONSTITUENT SUCCESS CORNER

12th & Taraval Traffic Safety Improvements

After hearing constituent concerns regarding traffic safety on Taraval Street at 12th Avenue, Supervisor Melgar’s Office advocated for proposed red zone changes to solve the issue. These traffic safety improvements will be heard at a public hearing later this month, and will be implemented soon. Thank you to Taraval residents for raising this issue!

Ortega Steps Cleanup

A neighbor in Golden Gate Heights reached out to my office to inform us that shrubs had grown so thick on the Ortega Steps that she couldn't use the handrail. This was both a tripping hazard and a visibly concern. So office staff and interns went out to fix the issue, clearing 90 gallons of vegetation away from the handrail to ensure safe passage for all neighbors in Golden Gate Heights. District 7 is a dream team!

Lost and Found

Last week my office helped return a lost wallet to a constituent. What started off as a quick google search turned into a full on investigation. From scouring LinkedIn pages to searching for relatives to contacting former employers, the D7 office attempted everything. We were met with countless offline phone numbers, and dead ends. After 45 minutes on hold, some internet stalking, a couple more phone calls, and a stroke of luck, the office was finally able to reach the husband of the wallet's owner. A legislative aide returned the wallet over the weekend and they were very grateful. We hope this story reminds you of the importance of kindness and goodwill and your power to make San Francisco a better place.

Parkside Neighborhood Sidewalk

A big thanks to the Department of Public Works for their prompt response and assistance in resolving the issue with the sidewalks in the Parkside neighborhood. Thanks to the concerted efforts of DPW, our dedicated constituents, and hardworking staff, we were able to restore and repair some of our sidewalks. Together, we have made a positive impact on safety and accessibility!

DISTRICT 7 IN THE NEWS

New Dessert Shop The Fate Tea House Opens in Ingleside - Ingleside Light
Frida Kahlo Way Traffic Safety Upgrade Planning Underway- Ingleside Light
After monthslong push, Cal Academy workers vote to unionize - Mission Local
- By a 210-63 vote, workers voted to form a union which will include scientists, educators, floor staff and other positions. SEIU 1021 will be a union affiliation which also represents workers at many other local museums.
One of San Francisco’s Most Dangerous Streets To Undergo Huge Changes - SF Standard

UPDATES FROM THE RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT

Golden Gate Park Projects:

AIDS Grove – Upgrade irrigation at the GGP AIDS Grove
UPDATE: Contractor submitted signed contract on 6/16. Aim to issue NTP next.

Botanical Garden Nursery - New Headhouse and Greenhouse and Growing Grounds
UPDATE: Expect Completion by end of August. Working on DBI permit for Accessible pathways.

Conservatory of Flowers Whitewashing – repair interior woodwork, whitewash exterior.
UPDATE: Adding minor repairs for glass and paint. Continue whitewashing.

Japanese Tea Garden Pagoda Landscape – Renovate the garden surrounding Pagoda
UPDATE: 3-month plant transplant has begun.

Japanese Tea Garden Long Bridge – Wooden bridge restoration
UPDATE: Carpentry shop completed measurements on 7/14.

Conservatory of Flowers Whitewashing – Restore interior woodwork, and whitewash exterior
UPDATE: Continuing to whitewash and make repairs.

Bandshell – Restore façade
UPDATE: Scheduling a site meeting with contractor. Work to begin mid-November.

Bollards – Install deployable bollards pilot at Nancy Pelosi & MLK
UPDATE: Reviewed sites with manufacturer on 4/26. Will begin an internal review of proposal, and confirm the electrical route.

Golden Gate Heights – Repave asphalt pathways
Update: Completed project scope, for bid solicitation, on 6/30. Estimate completion November 2023.

Harding Park Gate & Pavement Repairs - Repair failing gate and pavement
UPDATE: Presentation to Harding Clubs on 6/16, No opposition. Estimated completion in November 2023.

GGP 9th Ave and Lincoln Gateway
This project proposes improving the prominent gateway into GGP with placemaking improvements including an expanded paving area on each side of 9th Ave, with seating, specimen planting, and improved signage to welcome park visitors. Crossings will be brought to ADA compliance and the existing bus shelter may be relocated to create a more usable space.
STATUS UPDATE: Bauman was the lowest bid. PM is planning to take to commission in July.
Budget/Funding: $3.1 Total Budget
$2.8M Mayor’s Office
$200K Open Space (pending $170K)
Construction Anticipated: Fall 2023
Projected Completion: Spring 2024

ADA – Harding Lot Parking Improvements
The intent of this ADA barrier removal project is to implement corrective measures identified as part of a settlement agreement and to renovate existing facilities within and around the Harding Park Golf Course Clubhouse parking lot. The project is being performed as part of the Recreation and Park Department ADA Capital Improvement Program in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office on Disability (MOD). Scope includes bringing existing parking areas to compliance, a new extended accessible pathway across the parking lot, new crosswalks, curb ramps, loading zone and repaving existing concrete pathways.
STATUS UPDATE: 60% CDs (construction documents) were submitted for review in late May. SMY review planned for mid-June. Waiting on cost estimate. Project presents no conflict with PGA Women's tournament in summer 2023 as construction will occur in 2024.
Budget/Funding: COP $900,000 and RPD ADA General Fund $900,000
Construction Anticipated: Winter 2024
Projected Completion: Fall 2024

ADA – Stow Lake Perimeter Path
This project is part of RPD’s ADA Capital Improvement Projects, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of Disability (MOD) funding for the ADA Transition Plan Program.  The Stow Lake Perimeter Path Renovation scope of work includes ADA barrier removal work for compliance with accessibility for path of travel and site furnishings such as benches and picnic tables, as well as additional upgrades to the site furnishings. This project also includes repaving the existing asphalt parking lot at the Stow Lake Boathouse and repaving an existing asphalt path at 36th Avenue and Spreckels Lake Drive.
STATUS UPDATE: Phase 1.1 - 2.1 are complete. The fence for the final phase (2.2) went up 6/20/23.
Budget/Funding: RPD ADA General Fund, $800,000
MOD, $500,000
Commercial Paper, $900,000
Construction Anticipated: January 2023
Projected Completion: August 2023

Lake Merced 2012 Bond Project
This project may include perimeter path improvements, the addition of a new permanent restroom structure, and new site furnishings including fitness equipment and benches.
STATUS UPDATE: Project is under bid prep and specifications development with SAR, CM Team reconstructing proposal due to bid alts.
Budget/Funding: 2012 Clean and Safe Bond, $2M
State Grant, $1M
Construction Anticipated: Fall 2023
Projected Completion: Winter 2024

Ocean Beach Climate Change Adaption Project
This project will create a permanent multi-use trail and parking lot along South Great Highway connecting to the Lake Merced Trail and Fort Funston.
STATUS UPDATE: Working to finalize MOU between RPD and PUC. Working to engage with Zoo. 95% Engineering CDs being reviewed.
Construction Anticipated: Winter 2024
Projected Completion: Winter 2028

Twin Peaks Trail Improvement Project – Phase 2
This project will make improvements on trail segments for which work was excluded from previous contract due to funding shortage and (if we secure additional funding), conversion of closed roadway to linear park promenade (resurfacing a portion of the roadway, removing the concrete barrier at road’s edge, installing wayfinding and interpretive signage and simple site amenities such as bike racks and rustic boulder seating).
STATUS UPDATE: We are seeking federal funding through Sen. Padilla’s FY 24 Community Project Funding - $1.5 million for the Twin Peaks Access, Roadway, and Pedestrian Walkway Project. Design Team working toward 100% CD submittal. Breaking trails and promenade into two separate construction packages. 5/19/23 Design Team working toward 100% CD submittal. Bid package expected to go out in summer 2023. NRD to solidify trail log a. PW to complete construction details and specifications.
Budget/Funding: $1.5M Prop. 68 Regional Park Program Grant, $1M 2020 Bond, $500K PCA Grant. Targeting $1.5-$2 M more for Prop 68 state grant funds for promenade work.
Construction Anticipated: Winter 2024
Projected Completion: Fall 2025

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

You can sign up to volunteer with SF Rec and Park as an individual, or as a small group. These Volunteer Programs provide the opportunity to volunteer in over 220 Parks and Recreation facilities.

Weekly opportunities include:

Weeding, planting, habitat restoration, trail work and other park maintenance;
Teaching classes in arts, theater, sports, music and more in our Rec centers;
Volunteering at our swimming pools;
Joining our youth programs, Greenagers and the Youth Stewardship Program;
And restoring and protecting natural habitats at the EcoCenter at Heron’s Head Park

Visit their Volunteer Programs page here to learn more, view our Volunteer Calendar, and to Sign Up.

Board of Supervisors | District 7 | Myrna Melgar

1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 260
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 554-6516 | Fax: (415) 554-6516
melgarstaff@sfgov.org

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