|
|
|
As we approach the end of June, I hope you are having a fun kickoff to the summer season and that you enjoy a great Fourth of July celebration.
This month, I introduced bold new legislation to help make San Francisco’s public spaces safer from gun violence, submitted a Letter of Inquiry to city departments demanding better coordination to serve unhoused individuals in our District, and in the face of a significant budget deficit exceeding $700 million, I have been working tirelessly to ensure the fiscal health and stability of our city.
Thank you so much for your ongoing support and involvement during these challenging times. Let's work together to create a resilient and inclusive San Francisco that we can all be proud to call home. Have a fantastic summer, and stay tuned for more updates in the upcoming months.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out at StefaniStaff@sfgov.org or 415-554-7752.
Sincerely,
|
|
|
Prohibiting Firearms from Sensitive Public Places
|
This month, I introduced landmark legislation prohibiting firearms from sensitive places such as hospitals, election facilities, parks, places of worship, grocery stores, restaurants, and more. This ordinance directly responds to the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen Supreme Court ruling, which struck down a New York gun safety law requiring that a person demonstrate a special need to obtain a license to carry a concealed weapon in public. As a result, this decision has driven an increase in people applying for concealed carry licenses nationwide and in San Francisco, and consequently, more weapons will be present in public spaces. This is not acceptable.
By passing this ordinance, the Board of Supervisors can take a significant step toward making our public spaces and our city safer. I’m honored to have the support and partnership of City Attorney David Chiu and gun safety advocates like Rudy Corpuz from United Playaz, Celeste Perron from Moms Demand Action, Mattie Scott and the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, and Golden State Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr. Together, we can and will reduce the trauma gun violence inflicts on our communities.
Supporting Governor Newsom’s Proposed 28th Amendment to the Constitution
I introduced a resolution to support Governor Newsom's proposed 28th Amendment, aiming to incorporate sensible gun safety measures into federal law. This significant amendment would have multiple provisions, including banning the civilian purchase of assault weapons, increasing the minimum age to purchase firearms from 18 to 21, mandating universal background checks for all firearm purchases, and implementing a "reasonable waiting period" before the completion of such purchases. Furthermore, it would explicitly acknowledge that Congress, as well as states and localities, can establish additional regulations to enhance gun safety.
While I take immense pride in the efforts undertaken by my office and other stakeholders to position San Francisco as a frontrunner in gun safety, we recognize the urgent need for federal action. Recent tragic incidents in the Mission and the Excelsior neighborhoods highlight the ease with which firearms can be transported into our city from regions where the purchase process is less stringent. To prevent the proliferation of weapons on our streets, I remain committed to utilizing every available avenue to ensure comprehensive measures are in place.
Letter Requesting Action and Better Departmental Coordination on Unhoused Individuals
I sent letters to Dr. Grant Colfax, Director of the Department of Public Health, and Jorge Rivas, Executive Director of the Office of Civic Engagement & Immigrant Affairs, demanding increased coordination and targeted intervention for several unhoused individuals living in the Marina District. In doing so, I will ensure that my office brings the necessary leadership to the table to work toward a solution that brings essential services to unhoused individuals and resolve threats to public safety.
|
I am thrilled to have kicked off Pride Month with our annual flag-raising celebration at City Hall. In the face of escalating acts of hate and a Supreme Court prioritizing discriminatory policies over the law, we must remain steadfast in our fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Together, let's build a world where dignity and respect are ensured for all.
Meeting Our Fillmore Community Ambassadors
|
Last year, I funded the SFPD Community Ambassador Program to keep our Fillmore merchant corridor safe and vibrant. I was thrilled to visit with merchants and thank the ambassadors for their hard work. The ambassadors are a visible presence on Fillmore, and they are always willing to help and build relationships with the neighborhood. I encourage you to shop on Fillmore and say hello to them. They are an important part of our community and work hard to make our neighborhood safe and welcoming. I am working hard to ensure that we expand the Community Ambassador Program to other parts of the District.
Union Street Festival
|
This year’s Union Street Festival was a huge success! The street was alive with music, delicious food, and boutique shopping. I was delighted to see many of our neighbors and friends enjoying the event. Thank you to all of our merchants who participated in the festival. Your hard work and dedication made this event possible. I hope you saw a boost in business during the festival. I'm so proud of our community for coming together, and I look forward to next year!
Marching Across the Golden Gate Bridge to Fight Against Gun Violence
|
On June 2nd, I joined forces with Moms Demand Action, United Playaz, Pierce’s Pledge, and other local activists in the fight against gun violence in San Francisco and nationwide. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to speak about my legislative efforts to curb this senseless violence. As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact that gun violence can have on families and communities.
I know we can do more to protect our children and loved ones from gun violence. That’s why I’ve introduced legislation to ban concealed carry weapons from sensitive places and it's why I’ve passed legislation to ban ghost guns in San Francisco. I urge you to join me in this fight.
Celebrating 57 Years of Self-Help for the Elderly
|
I had a wonderful time celebrating Self-Help for the Elderly's 57th anniversary! I especially loved getting to join my friend, State Treasurer Fiona Ma, for a mini fashion show displaying gorgeous gowns from different cultures. Self-Help for the Elderly promotes independence, well-being, and dignity for older adults through culturally aligned services and programs in the San Francisco Bay Area. They serve over 40,000 annually, providing invaluable and much-needed assistance to our seniors. I can’t thank them all enough for all they do, especially their President and CEO, Anni Chung.
For more info on Self-Help for the Elderly, visit selfhelpelderly.org.
Giffords Law Center 30th Anniversary
|
It was a motivating evening at Pier 27 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. I joined former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, and hundreds of other advocates to support the center's work, honor its founding, and recognize courageous leaders. We learned about the center's work to pass common-sense gun safety laws and to hold the gun lobby accountable. Join me in supporting the Giffords Law Center and other organizations working to make our communities safer and free from gun violence.
For more info on the Giffords Law Center, visit giffords.org/lawcenter/gun-laws.
Meeting with Richmond’s Community Police Advisory Board (CPAB) |
I was honored to join Captain Canning and Richmond Station’s Community Police Advisory Board this month to discuss pressing issues in the neighborhood. Quality of life concerns and public safety have long and will remain my top priorities for my District and the city. It was inspiring to hear how ready and willing folks are to step up in their neighborhood and be part of the change. I know our city is worth fighting for, and I look forward to tackling these issues together.
If you are interested in learning more about Community Police Advisory Boards or getting more involved, please contact my office for more information.
|
Fillmore Jazz Festival
Fillmore Street between Washington and Geary
The Fillmore Jazz Festival is back on Saturday and Sunday, July 1st and 2nd! Art and soul harmonize in one of San Francisco's most distinctive neighborhoods. This vibrant event offers a full day of live music across various stages, showcasing talented artists, while indulging in delicious food and beverages. This festival will have plenty of activities for attendees to participate in.
Learn more at fillmorejazzfest.com.
Fourth of July Fireworks at Fisherman's Wharf
Come down to the waterfront to enjoy the day on Tuesday, July 4th! The fireworks show from the Bay begins at 9:30 pm—one located at PIER 39 and another located at Aquatic Park. Neighborhood restaurants, activities, and retail shops in Fisherman's Wharf will be open for you and your family to enjoy. Please note: Dress appropriately for the weather, which can get cold and windy.
Learn more at fishermanswharf.org/events/annual-events/4th-of-july.
State of the Bay with Supervisor Stefani
I will be joining Ethan Elkind and Grace Won on 91.7 FM KALW’s State of the Bay radio show on Monday, July 10th, from 6-7 PM. Join me to discuss the state of the city, what we’re doing well, and what we can always improve upon.
To call in during the show, dial 866-798-TALK.
To share comments or questions, please email stateofthebay@kalw.org or tweet @stateofbay.
Adopt a Drain Program
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission launched the Adopt a Drain Program in 2016. The program provides an opportunity for community members to help their neighborhoods by keeping storm drains clear of trash and helping prevent unnecessary stoppage. During this past winter’s storms, volunteers stepped up to take care of San Francisco through this program. Here are some highlights:
- The number of drain adopters nearly doubled in January 2023 alone, from 2,700 to 4,700, as residents helped respond to the historic rainy season.
- We’re scheduling our next tool giveaway event for this fall – registered drain adopters will receive an email.
- We’ve launched a new and improved Adopt a Drain website: adoptadrain.sfwater.org, where people can learn about the city’s 25,000+ storm drains on an interactive map, join the program, adopt drains (un-adopt drains if they need to), give their drains fun names, and see what names others have given their drains.
- Here is an article showcasing our Drain Heroes: Thank You, Drain Heroes: Adopt a Drain Program Nearly Doubles in 2023.
Thank you to the District 2 Drain Adopters for your public service! If you haven’t yet, look at drains in your neighborhood that you can steward!
SF Muni Service Changes
SFMTA has announced service changes for several bus lines, including the 1 California and 1 California Express, effective June 12th. Read more about all the service changes at sfmta.com/ServiceChanges.
UCSF Laurel Heights Closure
UCSF is moving out of 3333 California Street after over 35 years. UCSF is beginning the process of moving out of the property; all staff and functions have moved. In the coming weeks, you will see UCSF signage removed from the property and gates closed to ensure the safety of the building.
During the transition period through March 2025, UCSF will conduct regular security patrols and continue maintaining the grounds. If you have any questions, please contact community.cgr@ucsf.edu.
SF City Guide Tours
SF City Guide Tours’ mission is to share the history, lore, characters, and stories of our city in a fun, informative, and engaging way. You’ll see the places that made San Francisco unique and hear about the people and events that shaped the city you see today. Because you’re walking with enthusiastic experts, you’ll have an experience you can’t get anywhere else.
Learn more at sfcityguides.org.
Taken with Transportation: An SFMTA Podcast
SFMTA has officially launched Taken with Transportation, the official podcast hosted by Melissa Culross. Each episode will take you along for the ride as they profile the people and policies that make accessible, equitable transportation in San Francisco possible. These stories will cover everything from the city’s streets to the inner workings of the SFMTA and offer insight and perspectives you won’t get anywhere else.
Listen today at sfmta.com/taken-transportation-podcast.
|
|
|
|
Listen: Soup With the Supes: Catherine Stefani on police and safety
San Francisco Chronicle | June 6, 2023
“San Francisco can’t have a police force that only responds to top priority calls, says the supervisor whose District 2 includes the Marina and Pacific Heights. Stefani described how she would like to handle challenges with hiring cops, what we expect police officers to do, and why public safety is such a critical issue for San Francisco.”
Here’s why hundreds of orange-clad people marched across Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco Chronicle | June 4, 2023
“But San Francisco Supervisor Catherine Stefani, a former leader of the city’s Moms Demand Action chapter who introduced that ordinance, said Sunday that the measure alone wasn’t enough to curb gun violence.”
San Francisco Considers Banning Guns in More Public Places After Recent Shootings
KQED | June 13, 2023
“Supervisor Catherine Stefani and City Attorney David Chiu announced a new ordinance on Tuesday that would add more places where guns are prohibited, now to include hospitals, parks, movie theaters, places of worship, restaurants, grocery stores and voting sites."
S.F. would extend ban on firearms to these places under proposed ordinance
San Francisco Chronicle | June 13, 2023
“Flanked by Chiu and several members from gun safety advocacy groups Moms Demand Action and United Playaz, a local violence-reduction group, Stefani took aim at the controversial ruling, calling it a ‘dangerous step backwards and a gross misinterpretation of the Constitution’ by a ‘rogue’ Supreme Court.”
Group of teens blamed for at least 11 violent robberies in Noe Valley, NoPa, S.F. police say
San Francisco Chronicle | June 29, 2023
“'I am incredibly alarmed by this and think it highlights the need for increased police presence in the area, especially given what is happening in Noe Valley,’ Stefani said. ‘Ensuring the security and well-being of residents, particularly women, is top priority for me and I have asked SFPD to step up patrols in the area.'”
|
|
|
|
Chief Bill Scott Welcomes Largest SFPD Academy Class in Three Years
San Francisco Police Department | June 26, 2023
“The SFPD’s 280th Basic Academy Class has 32 recruits, the largest class since 2020 when the COVID pandemic caused wide-spread challenges with hiring and retaining police officers in San Francisco and the rest of California.
‘I am overjoyed as I look on at this class of recruits,’ Chief Scott said. ‘Our recruitment unit has worked hard to streamline the hiring process and double down on the quality of applicants was well as the quantity. I thank them for their efforts.’
‘Improving public safety in San Francisco starts with addressing our police staffing shortage so we have more officers in our neighborhoods and on the streets keeping residents, small business, and visitors safe,’ said Mayor London Breed. ‘Interest in the Department has increased significantly over the last several months, and this class reflects that growing interest and the hard work our department has put in to focus on recruitment. This Academy class is the largest we’ve seen in over three years, and it’s just the start. We will sustain our focus on recruitment and retention so that San Francisco can be an even safer City for all.’”
S.F. arrests 58 drug users in a week as Breed cracks down. Sheriff targets open-air markets, usage
San Francisco Chronicle | June 9, 2023
"The San Francisco sheriff unveiled plans Thursday to deploy an emergency team in the Tenderloin and SoMa to arrest drug dealers and compel people using drugs into treatment, stepping up a controversial effort by Mayor London Breed to confront the city’s fentanyl crisis.
State and local law enforcement agencies citywide have already stepped up enforcement against people dealing and using drugs. The Sheriff’s Department said Thursday that it tracked 58 arrests by multiple agencies since May 30 under six health and safety codes related to public intoxication and drug possession in the Tenderloin and South of Market neighborhoods. All but one were also arrested for more serious crimes, the department said.
Miyamoto was joined Thursday by Scott, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, Emergency Department Director Mary Ellen Carroll and San Francisco Supervisors Matt Dorsey, Joel Engardio, Ahsha Safaí and Catherine Stefani."
Advocates for Unhoused San Franciscans Say Encampment Sweeps Continue Despite Court Order, Call on Judge to Rein City In
KQED | May 27, 2023
“In December, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the city from sweeping homeless encampments and citing people for sleeping on the streets.
The city has been trying to fight the preliminary injunction, and is still waiting for a decision on its appeal. A spokesperson for the city attorney, David Chiu, said San Francisco is following the court order and spending hundreds of millions of dollars on shelter and services for unhoused residents. “The City is also working to ensure San Francisco’s streets are clean, safe, and provide a sufficient path of travel for all, including persons with disabilities,” spokesperson Jen Kwart wrote in an email, adding that the office is reviewing the new motion and will respond in court.”
|
|
|
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
