A summary...

First and foremost, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Supervisor Matt Dorsey, Assistant Chief David Lazar, Paul Yep Chief of Public Safety, Carla Short Director of Public Works, Mark Mazza LCSW Outreach Manager for the Department of Homelessness, Captain Luke Martin, Captain Kevin Knoble, and Lieutenant Chris Wilhem for participating on our panel.

We are delighted to see a significant improvement in street conditions, with fewer individuals lounging, blocking business entrances, and engaging in drug dealing and drug use. Jessie Street is no longer overcrowded with unhoused individuals, allowing businesses like 54 Mint Cucina Romana to attract more customers and thrive.

Carla Short discussed the DPW's daily sidewalk cleaning efforts, despite this responsibility falling on property owners and businesses. When asked how long these cleanings would continue, she was unable to provide a definite answer.

Additionally, an ongoing issue remains with elderly Asian women who gather at the corner of Sixth and Mission, near the entrance of Miss Saigon Vietnamese restaurant, and resell food from food banks, as well as selling cigarettes. Law enforcement has struggled to prevent them from continuing these activities.

Individuals struggling with severe mental health issues should not be left on the streets in their current condition. It is essential that we come together to support conservatorship programs that provide them with housing and necessary services. Also, drug abuse remains a major concern. Supervisor Matt Dorsey is currently drafting an ordinance called "Drug-Free Sidewalks," which aims to significantly impact the ongoing challenges posed by drug addiction in public spaces.

United Playaz, in collaboration with San Francisco Democratic Party and SOMBA urges you to please join us in this march!



The fentanyl crisis has had a devastating impact not only on the unhoused population but also on individuals struggling with addiction—many of whom may not appear to be users at first glance. This highly potent drug is so lethal that a mere two-milligram dose, equivalent to just 5-7 grains of salt, can be fatal.

The SFPD has made numerous arrests of fentanyl dealers, and while the District Attorney prosecutes them, some judges impose minimal penalties, allowing the cycle to continue. The purpose of the march is to send a strong message to city officials—and especially to the judiciary—that leniency in these cases enables the ongoing sale of fentanyl, contributing to countless preventable deaths.

ABC reporter Tim Johns reached out to interview SOMBA President, Henry Karnilowicz regarding the mobile Triage Center at the corner of Sixth Street and Jessie Street. He questioned what impact it has created so far, on the neighborhood and the unhoused population in the area.

Click button below to watch the full interview.

The SF Shines Facade Improvement program page is live! 

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. 

Program Goals:

1. Improve the physical appearance of commercially-zoned storefronts.
2. Encourage economic activity and increase foot traffic.
3. Enhance the look and feel of the commercial corridor.

For more information, click the button below.

The Renaissance Center is an invaluable resource for primarily women entrepreneurs, offering a wide range of classes covering everything from launching a startup to growing an existing business. Their programs include expert guidance on management, marketing, and financial strategies.

Check out their upcoming workshops and events:

Our friend Manny at Civic Joy Fund has just announced a new night market on Valencia Street. Starting May 8, the Mission will have its own music fueled, food-filled monthly street party.

RSVP to Valencia Live here:

And if you’ve ever dreamed about reshaping San Francisco, now’s your chance: The Civic Joy Fund is teaming up with the Urban Land Institute and city leaders on a competition to reimagine the future of Market Street, and the winning idea gets $100,000. Yes, for real. This is an opportunity to dream big, let’s see what you’ve got!

SF Restaurant Week is back Friday, April 4th through Sunday, April 13th. 

See what restaurants are participating by clicking the button below:

SOMBA supports the proposed Central City Theater, Art, and Events District Project...

A meeting was held at Trellis Coworking with Lorenzo Listana and other stakeholders in SOMA to discuss the proposed project. While various topics were covered, one of the most significant challenges identified was funding. Bringing this project to life will undoubtedly take time.

We eagerly anticipate its realization, as it promises to make a substantial impact on SOMA, further establishing the area as a hub for theater, arts, and events.

Stay tuned for updates!