Dear District 8 Residents and Friends,
June was a whirlwind month at City Hall. I spent much of the month deep in hearings and negotiations over our city’s two-year budget. It wasn’t an easy process and no one got everything they wanted, but we were able to restore critical services, including protecting funding for legal aid, housing support, and community-based organizations.
June was also Pride Month, and I was honored to once again march alongside so many of you in San Francisco’s Pride Parade! But this month also brought reminders of the work still ahead. In a deeply disappointing move, the Department of Defense announced it would strip Harvey Milk’s name from the Navy ship that once bore it—a shameful erasure of an American hero. But San Francisco will not let bully’s erase Harvey’s legacy. On the last Friday of Pride Month, I joined the Mayor to announce that the long-awaited renovation of Harvey Milk Plaza in the Castro will begin next year.
On June 26 I held two hearings on San Francisco’s behavioral health crisis at the Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee. The first focused on San Francisco's implementation of Senate Bill 43 (2019), which expanded the eligibility criteria for conservatorship to include individuals with severe substance use disorder. The second was on the Residential Care and Treatment Workgroup's findings and recommendations on San Francisco’s treatment bed inventory. I had asked Mayor Breed to convene the Workgroup following the passage of Prop 1 in March 2024, and I co-chaired the group. I will continue pressing our departments to turn promises into real, on-the-ground help for people struggling with mental illness and substance use. As always, thank
you for your support, your partnership, and your commitment to a more compassionate, livable San Francisco.
Best,
Rafael |
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MEET YOUR SUPERVISOR!
VIRTUAL OFFICE HOURS: Join virtually on Saturday July 12th from 9:30AM to 11:30 AM. Email mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org for a time slot!
IN-PERSON OFFICE HOURS: Join in-person on Saturday, July 19, from 10AM - 12PM at Duboce Park Cafe. Email mandelmanstaff@sfgov.org to reserve a spot. |
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UPCOMING DISTRICT 8 EVENTS
Wednesdays, 3-7pm: Castro Farmers’ Market - Every Wednesday on Noe & Market Streets!
Friday, July 18th, 5-10 PM: Castro Night Market - Enjoy local food vendors, merchants, and live entertainment on the 3rd Friday of every month!
Saturday, July 19, 4:00 - 8:30 PM: Glen Park Night Market - Enjoy local food vendors, merchants, and live performances in Kern Street (Diamond to Brompton)
Tuesday, July 29th, 4:30-8:30 PM: Noe Valley Night Market - With the expanded footprint onto 24th St, the Noe Valley Night Market is growing! Enjoy live entertainment, local artists and delicious food! |
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FACES IN THE CROWD: BOB SIEGEL |
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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!
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The city needs more dirt than asphalt. It can also use a more knit-together feel 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 Cliff House. 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 crosstowntrail.org, a site created by Siegel and his helpers. And just last month, on the fifth anniversary of the trail, a second pathway was added, running from Fort Funston, near the zoo, to North Beach. Grab your Hokas, San Francisco!
As 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 adventure. Its popularity also 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.
For now the trail barely touches District 8, but the new second trail will shoot down from Twin Peaks and run 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 now in touch with Boston, which is planning a 27 mile walkway, and Seattle, which wants a 31 mile path. Crowded, busy cities are finding a way to relax and enjoy themselves. |
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GET INVOLVED IN YOUR CITY! |
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Attend the Treatment on Demand Hearing
On July 24th at 10am, I will hold a hearing to understand the shortcomings of the Treatment on Demand policy and what needs to be done to improve its utilization. San Francisco's Treatment on Demand Act (Proposition T), passed in 2008, mandates that the city provide sufficient free and low-cost substance use disorder treatment services to meet public demand. The goal of this legislation was to ensure the City had recovery resources available the second someone needed them, but the implementation has been spotty.
Want to tune in? Head to sfgovtv.org on July 24th at 10am. |
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Take a Tour of the Southeast Wastewater Treatment Plant
Have you ever wondered what happens to the dirty water from your shower, laundry, and toilet after it goes down the drain? What about water that flows into storm drains from rain, watering lawns, and washing cars? Find out by taking a free tour of the Southeast Wastewater Treatment Plant. You'll go behind the scenes to see (and smell!) how this vital infrastructure works. |
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Learn About the Commission Streamlining Task Force!
Last November, San Francisco voters approved Proposition E, creating the Commission Streamlining Task Force. The Task Force is charged with reviewing the City’s many appointive boards and commissions and making recommendations to the Mayor and Board of Supervisors on how to modify, eliminate, or consolidate them for more effective, efficient, and economical governance.
The Task Force meets every first and third Wednesday at 1 PM in City Hall room 408 to discuss potential improvements to the structure of City government.
Learn more about the Commission Streamlining Task Force today on its website.
Interested members of the public can join the Task Force mailing list or share feedback by emailing commissionstreamlining@sfgov.org. |
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Join a Commission!
San Francisco has 100+ committees and commissions that advise City Departments on how to administer the City’s services and revenues. From advising on how the City distributes its Sugary Drink Tax revenue to ensuring the success of San Francisco’s City College, these commissions are a great way to use your background and expertise in service to the City of San Francisco.
Follow this link to see the current vacancies and instructions on how to apply. Reach out to melanie.mathewson@sfgov.org with questions!
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Claim Your College Funds!
On Friday, June 20th, the San Francisco Chronicle published an op-ed by San Francisco Treasurer José Cisneros highlighting a critical issue: more than 30,000 low-income students in San Francisco have not claimed $500 or more in college funds already set aside for them through the Kindergarten to College (K2C) and
CalKIDS programs.
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Over 80% of eligible San Francisco students have not yet claimed their CalKIDS money.
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Most low-income students are eligible for $500–$1,500 to help with books, housing, fees, or tuition.
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These funds can be claimed in less than 10 minutes online by following this link: Claim your funds!
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GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD! |
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DOLORES PARK CLEAN-UP!
Tomorrow, LoveDolores, the leave no trace education campaign at Dolores Park, is having their annual Micro Litter Clean-up event! This is a super special event each year that is very important after Pride and the July 4th weekend.
Where: Dolores St & 19th
When: July 12th, 1PM
Participants who volunteer for at least one hour during the Micro Litter Clean-Up Day will be eligible to enter a raffle to win a pair of Outside Lands tickets. Volunteers must sign in upon arrival at the park and sign out after collecting litter to qualify. The raffle will take place on Saturday, July 12th at 2:45pm so please arrive by 1:45pm to enter. Winners must be present to claim their prize. |
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JOIN A NEIGHBORHOOD GROUP!
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!
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Buena Vista Neighborhood Association: To learn more, visit BVNA’s website here.
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Cole Valley Improvement Association: To learn more, contact CVIA here.
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Corbett Heights Neighbors: To learn more, visit CHN’s website here.
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Diamond Heights Community Association: To learn more, contact DHCA here.
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Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association: Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every other month from 7:00 – 8:00 pm, in the gazebo room of the California Pacific Medical Center, and preceded by a community social from 6:30 – 7:00 pm.
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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.
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Eureka Valley Neighborhood Association: EVNA hosts a variety of events, including regular meetings. You can find their meeting information here.
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Glen Park Association meets quarterly and alternates between in-person and Zoom meetings. Email info@glenparkassociation.org for more information.
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Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association has an active membership and a number of committees working on a broad range of issues. Check out their website here.
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Mission Dolores Neighborhood Association: To learn more, visit MDNA’s website here.
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Mount Olympus Neighbors Association: To learn more, visit MONA’s website here.
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Upper Noe Neighbors meets every other month on the third Wednesday at the Upper Noe Recreation Center.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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Noe Valley Town Square hosts regular events such as Acoustic Sunday, Rhythm and Motion dance, the Noe Valley Farmers Market on Saturdays, and Free Sunday Morning Yoga.
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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:
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Park Station (1899 Waller): Fourth Wednesdays at 5PM on Zoom
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Neighborhoods: Cole Valley, Duboce Triangle, and Twin Peaks
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Mission Station (630 Valencia): Last Tuesdays at 5PM
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Neighborhoods: Castro, Mission Dolores, and Noe Valley
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Ingleside Station (1 Sgt. John V. Young): Third Tuesdays at 6PM
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Neighborhoods: Diamond Heights, Glen Park, and Upper Noe
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APPLY FOR AN SF SHINES GRANT!
Thanks to a unique program through the San Francisco Office of Economic & Workforce Development, small business owners can apply for a small business improvement grant!
SF Shines Facade Improvement: The SF Shines Facade Improvement Program provides financial assistance to small businesses that want to enhance the exterior appearance of their storefronts. This initiative aims to help local businesses that will increase the vibrancy of the neighborhood. The program will fund up to $20,000 for comprehensive exterior improvements that will transform the storefront.
Eligible facade improvements include exterior lighting, window replacement/anti-graffiti film, door replacement, exterior tile, neon sign restoration, awnings and signage, exterior painting, murals and planters. |
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On June 3rd, I honored Chief Bill Scott with a special commendation for his years of leadership and reform in the city as he stepped down from his role as San Francisco Police Chief.
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On June 5th, I discussed procurement reform and my Contract Streamlining Act with SPUR (San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association) and Molly Peterson of the City GovOps team.
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On June 6th, I joined the Mayor as well as LGBTQ+ community members and leaders to raise the Pride Flag at City Hall to mark the commencement of Pride month.
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On June 7th, I attended the 30th annual unveiling of the Pink Triangle at Twin Peaks.
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On June 11th, I met with members of the SF Commons for a fireside chat about various topics relevant to San Francisco.
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On June 12th, I spoke at a Unity Gathering in collaboration with SF Interfaith and Mayor Lurie in solidarity with San Francisco’s immigrant community.
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On June 18th, I stopped by to congratulate Bar 49 on their one year anniversary!
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On June 20th, I attended the Pride Night Market presented by Castro Night Market, Castro Merchants, and the Civic Joy Fund.
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On June 21st, I attended the first Glen Park Night Market presented by Glen Park Association, Civic Joy Fund, and Art Walk SF.
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On June 24th, I presented special commendations to Ron Gallman and Rebecca Rolfe in honor of their retirements, recognizing their contributions to the San Francisco Symphony and the SF LGBT Center, respectively.
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On June 29th, I walked in the Pride Parade with residents, business owners, and friends of District 8. Thanks to all who joined me!
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SFPD issuing more traffic tickets, new data reveals
NBC Bay Area - June 2nd
Mandelman, bicycle and pedestrian safety advocates said that they are happy that San Francisco police are increasing their traffic enforcement efforts. But they added very quickly, it's not enough." "We are still significantly below 2020 levels. And 2020 levels were way below 2014 levels,” Mandelman said. |
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What's new - and what's very familiar - in Lurie's budget proposal
SF Examiner - June 3
Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman said he’s still digesting the budget, but he said “I think it represents a real effort to bring our expenditures more in line with our revenues. We’re going to find that cuts are painful,” Mandelman said. “They're real. They're impacting real organizations doing important work for various communities.” |
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Mandelman becomes powerbroker in high-stakes police commission fight
The Bay Area Reporter, June 16
Mandelman extended support for Pratibha Tekkey for a seat on San Francisco’s Police Commission at a Board of Supervisors Panel.
Mandelman spoke to Tekkey’s work day-to-day in the Tenderloin, and said this seat had traditionally been set aside for community voices, particularly surrounding the Mission district and the Latino community, but that “if you think of a neighborhood that needs representation in the conversation about safety in San Francisco and whose serious concerns must be addressed … it’s the Tenderloin.” |
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SF Civil Grand Jury finds part of 'Vision Zero' failure due to lack of police traffic enforcement
ABC 7, June 22
In March 2024, San Francisco Supervisor Rafael Mandelman warned us.
"If there's no enforcement, you can change all the rules you want to and no one will take them seriously," he said. |
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SF Supervisors Preserve Millions for Homeless Prevention, Housing in Budget
KQED, June 26
"After more than 14 hours of tense closed-door negotiations, the city’s Budget and Appropriations Committee at 2 a.m. Thursday voted to move the amended $16 billion budget proposal forward to the full Board of Supervisors." |
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'Profoundly disappointing' modest gains in S.F.'s effort to force mentally ill people into treatment
SF Chronicle - June 26th
“It’s profoundly disappointing that we are where we are,” Mandelman said during a Thursday hearing, which he had called for, of the Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee. Centered on behavioral health issues since he was first elected in 2018, Mandelman has sponsored several actions in support of expanding conservatorship programs. Now, he’s turned critical of the little progress that’s been made. |
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Loosened rules not leading to SF conservatorship rush, data show
San Francisco Examiner - June 27
“I think we’ve all gotten something wrong in the way that we are thinking about what it takes to solve the problem of severe mental illness, indigent folks who may not know what they need,” Supervisor Rafael Mandelman said during Thursday’s meeting. |
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More incentives planned for SF commercial-to-housing conversions, but there are still challenges
ABC 7 - June 28
"Where are we going? Are we headed into a recovery or are we headed into recession, that will make a difference. What happens with interest rates? What happens with tariffs?" asked Mandelman. |
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