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MESSAGE FROM SUPERVISOR STEPHEN SHERRILL
Hi everyone,
For the past few days, we have been ready to send this newsletter, only to rush back and update it. Let’s just say it’s been a very busy end to Q3 and start to Q4.
I want to start with the ICE deployment non-deployment(!) to SF and the potential of a National Guard deployment in the future.
As Mayor Lurie announced on October 23, 2025, there will NOT be an ICE surge in the Bay Area. This is unequivocally good for San Francisco, but we must stay on our toes.
1. No matter what happens: Stay Vigilant, Stay United.
SFPD will not coordinate with federal immigration officials. San Francisco’s Sanctuary City law ensures that everyone—regardless of immigration status—can safely access hospitals, schools, and police assistance.
(We’ve attached additional resources at the end of this email.)
2. San Francisco has momentum - and everyone is seeing it.
Crime stats, hotel bookings, and office leasing are all trending in the right direction—but we still have work to do.
As I said last week, “The fentanyl crisis in San Francisco is real, urgent, and deadly. But the idea that the National Guard could fix it is both naïve and counterproductive… We must be thoughtful and aggressive, not performative with gestures that are destined to fail.”
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Metric |
Change |
Trend |
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Overall Crime |
-27.2% |
⬇️Major improvement |
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Hotel Bookings |
+4.9% |
⬆️Growing steadily |
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Tourism |
+1.9% |
⬆️Small gain |
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Moscone Hotel Bookings |
+70% |
🚀Big rebound |
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Office Leasing |
+46% |
📈Strong recovery |
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Office Vacancies |
-0.8% |
⚖️ Stabilizing |
The bottom line: federal threats are dangerous distractions from the real challenges here in San Francisco. Our focus must remain on keeping our streets safe and protecting families striving for a better life.
San Francisco: The #1 City for Families
Over the last ten months, I’ve talked a lot about making it easier for families to start, grow, and stay in San Francisco. I want to set a bold goal:
In 10 years, San Francisco will be the #1 choice for families in America.
Hard? Absolutely. Impossible? No.
This is about kids, yes ( San Francisco has the fewest per capita in the US), but it’s also about the family of your choice. San Francisco must be a place where families of all kinds - and at all stages of life - can thrive, with safety, affordability, and a thriving job market.
So here’s what’s on my mind…
Highlights:
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Recent Public Safety wins, but we must stay focused on persistent challenges. Addressing drug activity near parks, playgrounds, and schools is my top priority over the coming months.
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Small business momentum growing, but restaurant and retail sectors still need help.
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Amendments to the Mayor’s Family Zoning Plan were introduced last week, but more work remains to balance prioritizing San Francisco while avoiding a state takeover.
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And yes… we need more trash cans.
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Public Safety:
1. Crime trends are down across the board. Violent crime is at a 70-year low in San Francisco. And police recruitment is up - we just saw our first net increase in staffing since 2020.
Northern Station: Down 19% from last year, flat from August, and -35% so far in October.
Richmond Station: Down 22% from last year, -47% from August, and -9% so far in October.
2. Addressing fentanyl near parks, playgrounds and schools is my #1 focus for the next 3 months.
I introduced a new measure urging SFPD to prioritize intervention near family spaces like parks, playgrounds, and schools. Services first—but when refused, we can’t look away. A public hearing on Thursday, November 13 starting at 10AM at the Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee will focus on enforcement barriers and solutions. You can attend the hearing in person at City Hall or watch on SFGOV TV.
3. Gun Safety Initiative - First in the Nation
On September 8, we launched a first-in-the-nation “ safe gun storage” program to prevent tragedies during domestic disputes. One child is killed every week in the US during a domestic dispute - we must keep pushing to protect children. Pierce’s Pledge founder Lesley Hu is an incredible leader; I couldn’t be prouder to stand with her.
Program details here.
4. Nightlife and Corridors: paying attention to the everyday challenges.
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Our list of high-risk individuals on commercial corridors has several individuals come off, but also several new ones on (overall numbers between 12–15). We’re pursuing stay-away orders for two ongoing cases—one person vandalizing plants near Jefferson Square Park (now in effect) and one well-known individual on Chestnut. If you’ve had encounters, please email our office at
SherrillStaff@sfgov.org.
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The Fillmore & Greenwich intersection sees, no surprise, big crowds late on Friday and Saturday nights. SFPD is adjusting shifts to reduce unsafe late-night activity, and partnering with Waymo on safer pickup/dropoff options. Major thanks to management at Balboa, Rockwell and Wilder (and others) for demanding that SFPD increase presence.
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The alleys off Van Ness, Franklin and Gough continue to have persistent challenges at night. Some incredible neighborhood leaders have been critical in working with SFPD to get the focus we need to keep these spaces safe.
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Small Business & Economic Recovery
Our merchant corridors are the heart of District 2— but many are still struggling. The average SF restaurant profit margin: 0.19% - meaning nearly half lose money.
Key District 2 Stats:
📉 Business closures: -17%
📉 Retail closures: -25%
📉 New businesses registrations: down slightly (-5% retail, -2% overall)
Key Takeaway: moving in the right direction, but we need to keep the pedal down.
Bright Spots:
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Thuma and Super Mensch opened on Chestnut.
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Q Specialty Coffee opened in the old AG Ferrari space on California Street after 8 years.
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Breakfast Little coming soon to Union Street.
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Gap reopened on Chestnut today!
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Clay Theater moving forward with beer & wine service legislation next week!
Entertainment Zones
Union Street’s Entertainment Zone legislation goes live next month - letting local businesses sell to-go drinks during permitted events.
This keeps revenue local and creates more small-scale, community-driven events.
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What it is: During permitted events, bars and restaurants inside the permitted area can sell to-go drinks for consumption inside the permitted area.
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What it isn’t: It doesn’t change event permits or close streets.
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What to expect: Maybe more big events like a car show on Union, but more likely it we’ll see more small events like wine walks and holiday walks
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Next up: Fillmore Street? 🙂
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Housing & Zoning Updates
Last Monday, finally had its chance to introduce amendments to the Mayor’s Family Zoning Plan.
A huge number of amendments were introduced.
We led on…
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Amendments to amplify production of family-sized (aka multi-bedroom) units, and
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Targeted amendments focused on community resources, like the Marina Safeway, Ghirardelli Square, and a senior living facility and a dialysis clinic.
We supported amendments for…We can now negotiate directly with the California Department of Housing and Community Development on specifics of the plan.
This matters because, for the past year, it has felt that we were aiming at an ephemeral moving target (despite HCD’s warning letter in September). Now we can push as hard as possible to both craft the most San Francisco-centric plan possible AND block a state takeover of our zoning rules (and a loss of transit funding).
I’m pushing ahead on 3 related parallel elements:
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Legislation to control unintentional excesses of the CA State Density Bonus law,
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Overhaul of the City’s design standards to include neighborhood-specific standards, and
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New landmarks in District 2. A draft proposal has been put together that we will circulate shortly, but we encourage you to reach out if you are interested in this program.
Next Steps:
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The Land Use Committee meets again today, November 3 starting at 1:30PM to finalize amendments.
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A full vote at the Board of Supervisors will likely happen in December.
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Neighborhood Cleanliness: Trash Cans Matter
We’ve submitted a list of 34 priority locations for new public trash cans based on resident and merchant feedback.
We’ll update quarterly as we learn which sites are approved.
Sometimes, progress is as simple as putting a trash can where it’s needed most.
Sincerely, |
Stephen Sherrill
District 2 Supervisor
GET IN TOUCH WITH THE OFFICE:
Email: SherrillStaff@sfgov.org
Phone: 415-554-7752
Instagram: @stephensherrill
X: @scsherrill |
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Pierce’s Pledge Safe Gun Storage Press Conference
Mayor Daniel Lurie launched the new SFPD Pierce’s Pledge Gun Safety Storage Program in partnership with our office and gun violence prevention leaders. Through a new partnership with Pierce’s Pledge, the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) will offer San Franciscans a safe way to remove firearms from their homes by surrendering them at any of the city’s 10 district police stations, where firearms can be securely stored for up to one year at no cost.
Pierce’s Pledge was founded by Lesley Hu, a San Francisco resident whose 9-year-old son Pierce was tragically killed by his father during a family law matter. The program aims to prevent similar incidents by providing safe zones for residents to store firearms securely outside their homes.
Every parent deserves the chance to raise their child in safety, free from the fear that a moment of conflict could turn into tragedy. Thanks to the leadership of Lesley Hu and the partnership of Pierce’s Pledge, families now have a simple and dignified way to remove firearms from volatile situations. This program honors Pierce’s memory and stands as a powerful step toward preventing violence in our city.
Prior to the one-year mark, SFPD will contact the owner with steps to reclaim the firearm. If residents do not wish to reclaim the firearms, they are also entitled to sell or transfer the title to a Federal Firearms Licensed dealer, provided that the firearms are legal to own or possess and the person has the right to title the firearm.
Citations Resolution
San Francisco is facing a public safety and public health crisis—open drug use and trafficking are happening in broad daylight, near our parks, schools, and playgrounds. Families are rightfully asking: Why isn't there a faster, clearer response?
Last week, I introduced a resolution calling on the San Francisco Police Department to create and implement a focused plan for enforcement and intervention within 250 feet of schools, parks, and playgrounds. This includes issuing citations for illegal activity, conducting on-site health assessments, and removing individuals from the site.
We must do better—for our kids, for families, and for the future of our public spaces.
Hearing for Design Guidelines
This week, I introduced a hearing request to explore how our citywide objective design standards can be applied thoughtfully and contextually across San Francisco. Our goal is to welcome new families while preserving what makes our communities distinct.
Over the past year, I’ve met with architects, planners, and developers, and I’m confident we can meet our housing goals without sacrificing good design. This hearing will bring the Planning Department and design experts together to make sure our approach is objective, equitable, cost-effective, and true to San Francisco’s urban identity.
Stunt Driving Legislation Co-Sponsorship
Public safety is one of my top priorities, and that’s why I’m proud to support Supervisor Danny Sauter’s legislation to crack down on dangerous stunt driving in our city.
Across San Francisco—including here in District 2—we’ve seen an alarming rise in illegal street take overs by motorbike riders and reckless stunt driving that puts pedestrians, cyclists, and families at serious risk. Supervisor Sauter’s proposal would increase fines for impounded vehicles/motorbikes to the highest allowable amount and give law enforcement more tools to hold offenders accountable.
This legislation is a strong step toward restoring order on our streets and protecting our communities. We deserve neighborhoods where everyone feels safe—whether walking to school, biking to work, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. |
D2 Family Zoning Town Hall
This week, I hosted a town hall focused on Mayor Lurie’s Family Zoning Plan. The Family Zoning Plan is an effort to meet our state-mandated legal obligations to create the needed zoning capacity to add more homes and further address our housing affordability crisis. During the town hall, residents heard from Planning Department experts about the plan, and I engaged with neighbors for over an hour of Q&A.
If you have a question about rezoning that has been unanswered, please reach out to my office at SherrillStaff@sfgov.org so that my staff and I can make sure we provide you with any needed information! Thank you to Calvary Presbyterian Church for hosting this important community meeting.
Latino Heritage Month
In honor of Latino Heritage Month we were honored to commend Javier Vigil-Aragon, Owner of Leonore’s Deli & Taqueria. Based in Cathedral Hill, Javier shares the flavors of his heritage and the values of family, resilience, and community, creating a tribute to his late mother and a welcoming restaurant for all San Franciscans. Congratulations to Javier and his family on this well deserved recognition.
SFPD Chinatown National Night Out
It was great seeing neighbors and our public safety partners at the National Night Out with SFPD’s Northern Station, an evening to build community and strengthen our neighborhoods! Huge thanks to San Francisco PD, San Francisco Sheriff and San Francisco Adult Probation and everyone involved in keeping our residents safe.
Love Our Neighborhood Beautification Day
Special thanks to SF Public Works, community partners, and our incredible residents who joined us for the annual D2 Beautification Day and helped make it a success! From planting trees to picking up litter and removing ivy, your dedication keeps District 2 looking its best.
Firefighters Local 798 Chili Cook Off
Nothing brings the heat like the annual Johnny V. Chili Cook-Off and all for a great cause. Huge thanks to our San Francisco firefighters for hosting this spirited (and spicy) community tradition, all to benefit the SF firefighter Toy program. Proud to support our local heroes for such a great cause.
SF Youth Commission Swearing-In Ceremony
Huge Congratulations to all the new Youth Commissioners sworn in on September 10th. We are especially excited that District 2 is represented by Tea and Camryn, Two incredible young leaders ready to bring fresh ideas and energy to City Hall. We cannot wait to see the work they will do for San Francisco.
9/11 Commemoration
I joined our first responders and neighbors to honor the memory of September 11th. September 11th reminds us of the power of courage, sacrifice, and unity. We honor those we lost, those who risked everything to save others, and those who serve us daily with the same spirit and dedication.
LBFE Happy Hour
It was an honor to give opening remarks at the Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly Fundraiser. The LBFE community continues to do amazing work to end isolation and build meaningful connections for our elders.
CCSC Gala
Congratulations to the Charity Cultural Services Center on its 42nd Annual Gala! Thank you for more than four decades of empowering underserved communities through education, mentoring and job placement. Special congratulations to Bill Lee and Claudine Cheng on receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award!
Chuseok Day
Honored to join the 7th Annual Bay area Chuseok Festival and celebrate the Korean Center's 50th anniversary! Chuseok is a time to celebrate the harvest and come together in community. San Francisco has a proud history with the Korean American community, and today we recognize 80 years of Liberation and 50 years of the Korean Centers Incredible legacy |
Community Office Hours
We’re hosting our November Community Office Hours on Saturday, November 15th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM and would love for you to join us! Secure your appointment spot today!
Map Your Neighborhood with District 2 Supervisor Sherrill & Neighbors
Saturday, November 8, 4-6 PM
3601 Lyon Street
RSVP Here
Do you and your neighbors know the 9 steps to take in the first 60 minutes after a disaster when first responders will be overwhelmed?
Earthquakes, fires, tsunamis, water and power outages can happen anytime. You can be ready. Neighbors who talk do better in an emergency. We are short-staffed in the FIRE department, so we become the first responders. ARE YOU READY? Map Your Neighborhood (MYN) is an interactive program to organize neighbors to help each other in an emergency in the crucial 60 minutes after a disaster when first responders are overwhelmed.
Discover your area’s strengths and resources and start mapping your block for emergency readiness.
You'll receive a MYN booklet and a desire to connect and share the 9 step response plan. Join us. Protect yourself. Protect your neighbors. Build a safer community—together.
SF Restaurant Week 10th Anniversary Membership Discount- Saturday, November 1st- Sunday November 9th The GGRA is offering free three-month memberships from October - December 2025. By signing up now, you can be a GGRA member until the end of the year. 3 month memberships expire December 31st, 2025, so make sure to sign up as soon as possible. Email sean@ggra.org to sign up for your free 3 month membership. Sean will send a coupon code and sign up instructions. Offer ends October 24th, 2025.
District 2 Neighborhood Cleanups
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Saturday, November 8th - 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM - 3595 California St - Laurel Village Cleanup -
Saturday, November 8th - 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM - 1800 Chestnut St - Marina Cleanup -
Sunday, November 9th & November 23rd - 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM - 3154 Fillmore St - Cow Hollow Triangle Cleanup -
Wednesday, November 12th, November 19th, & November 26th - 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM - 3 Masonic Ave - Masonic Avenue Cleanup -
Thursday, November 20th - 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM - 3154 Fillmore St - Marina Happy Hour Cleanup -
Sunday, November 23rd - 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - 2232 Bush St - Fillmore North Cleanup -
Friday, November 28th - 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - 2101 Fillmore St - Fillmore Street Happy Hour Cleanup -
Sunday, November 30th - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM - 1750 Divisadero St - Lower Pacific Heights Cleanup
Immigration Resources In Response to Federal Activity
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24/7 - Rapid Response Network - 415-200-1548
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Call this same-day hotline to connect people with immigration enforcement issues to legal assistance and support services or to report ICE activity.
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San Francisco Immigrant Legal Defense Collaborative (SFILDC)
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A collaboration of 16 local organizations providing legal representation to individuals and families facing removal proceedings.
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San Francisco Immigrant Legal and Educational Network (SFILEN)
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A network of 12 organizations offering free legal assistance and education to immigrants.
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SF Office of Civic Engagement & Immigrant Affairs (OCEIA)
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A dedicated City department to help immigrants understand their options and find the right community legal services.
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Office of Supervisor Stephen Sherrill
1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 256, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 554-7752 Fax: (415) 554-7843 |
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