BCNA

Update: The trial start time has been changed to 1:30 pm on Wednesday, January 10.

The lawsuit filed by the State Lands Commission against the City of San Francisco over Proposition B is scheduled to go to trial on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at 9:30 am before Superior Court Judge Suzanne Bolanos in the Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister Street, Department 504.

Prop B, which passed with overwhelming support in June 2014, requires voter approval before a developer can exceed the present height limits on San Francisco Port waterfront properties. The Commission is headed by Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom, who is running for governor. The trial is expected to last 2-3 days and include testimony from Port staff and other witnesses.

The case is Corinne Woods, Michael Theriault, and Tim Colen v. John Arntz, in his official capacity as Director of Elections of the City and County of San Francisco, and City and County of San Francisco, Case Number CPF14513503. Read the complaint here.

From the SFPD Central Station Newsletter:

I hope everyone is enjoying the 2017 holiday season, as we get ready to say “Happy New Year” and welcome in 2018! The safety of all San Francisco residents and visitors continues to be our top priority.

SFPD Statement on FBI Investigation of Planned Attack on Pier 39:
The San Francisco Police Department was notified by the FBI about this investigation and we remain in contact with our local, state and federal partners as this case proceeds. During the holiday season we will continue our increased uniformed presence in the Central District shopping corridors and at our City’s attractions. As always, “if you see something, say something.” We encourage the community to contact officers or 9-1-1 to report suspicious activity, for crimes in progress or life threatening emergencies please. For all other incidents, please call the SFPD Non Emergency line at (415) 553-0123.

The San Francisco Department of Emergency Management (SFDEM) encourages people celebrating New Year’s Eve in San Francisco to text the phrase NYESF17 to 888-777 to receive emergency text messages alerts related to New Year’s Eve events in San Francisco. New Year’s Eve celebrants may also visit www.sfdem.org/NYESF.

San Francisco residents, visitors, and businesses can help by remaining vigilant while enjoying New Year’s Eve festivities. These simple tips will help you stay safe:

• If you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 or talk to a police officer if you see something suspicious.
• Have a plan. It is easy to lose track of people during large events. It is even more difficult when there is an emergency. Designate a meet up spot if you get separated from your group.
• Be aware of your surroundings and take note of emergency exits.
• Have a designated driver or alternative transportation plan if you plan on drinking alcohol.
• All fireworks including “Safe and Sane” are dangerous and illegal in San Francisco. We encourage everyone to choose the safety and observe a public fireworks shows.
• If you have a noise complaint, call the police non-emergency line at (415) 553-0123.

Thank you all for your support in 2017. Have a safe and memorable 2018 New Year’s Celebration!

On December 11, 2017, BCNA met with Supervisor Aaron Peskin and was assured that the proposed Navigation Center sites at 88 Broadway and Pier 23 will not be developed. Supervisor Peskin apologized for “getting ahead of the process” by not involving us in vetting possible locations for a Navigation Center in District 3. There are problems with both sites, and Supervisor Peskin acknowledged our concerns in assuring us that the sites are no longer viable options. Due to the recent wildfires, there is an urgent need for the mobile houses used for Navigation Centers, and thus, it is currently not feasible to set up a Navigation Center in either the 88 Broadway or Pier 23 locations.

We were insistent that a District-wide approach be used In evaluating any subsequent Navigation Center locations. Supervisor Peskin intends to create a working group of neighborhood organizations to come up with ideas and locations for transitional/supportive housing for the chronically homeless in District 3. While our area may not have homeless encampments or the most homeless people, reports show that District 3 has had the largest increase in numbers of people living on our streets.

The BCNA will continue to monitor the situation and keep members informed.