We hope this email finds you well. We would like to provide you with an important update regarding the recent neighborhood walk and highlight a crucial call to action that requires your immediate attention and support.

First and foremost, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who showed up for the neighborhood walk. Your presence and unwavering support of this petition were truly inspiring, and we appreciate your strong commitment to the well-being of our community.

Update: During the neighborhood walk, we had the opportunity to raise critical concerns that directly affect our neighborhood, West SOMA. Here are the key points that were discussed:

• Neighborhood-Specific Issues: We emphasized that the proposed solution of a Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) facility for Transitional Age Youth (TAYs) does not address the existing safety issues in our neighborhood. Walking our children safely on our block remains a challenge, and the proximity of the facility to Sumner Street exposes TAYs to drug users and other undesirable activities.
• Police Department (PD) Staffing Shortage: The PD captain made it clear that they are currently understaffed and unable to respond adequately to emergency calls. Despite efforts to improve staffing levels, it may take up to five years to bring the PD up to the necessary capacity. Adding extra patrols to support this project is not feasible under the current circumstances.
• Opposition to Harm Reduction: Matt Dorsey expressed his lack of support for a harm reduction approach and advocated for a sober living environment. Data showing that 16% of fentanyl-related deaths occurred within PSH facilities further strengthened his stance. He committed to discussing this point with the Mayor.
• Strong Opposition from Neighbors: It was evident that neighbors remain strongly opposed to fast-tracking this project. We stressed the importance of engaging with the community and exploring alternative solutions. During the walk, creative suggestions were put forth, including a 25% allocation of the building to a TAY program or concessions to the neighborhood to foster business growth and community well-being alongside potential HSH clients.
• Strained Businesses and Mental Stress: Local businesses are already facing challenges, and the community is experiencing significant mental stress due to the perception of SoMa as a dumping ground. The optics of another housing program are not favorable, despite the understanding of the need to address homelessness. The concentration of four Episcopal housing services buildings within one block is deemed unfair by neighbors.
• Call to Action: If the HSH department truly empathizes with both the community and the TAYs, values frugal spending of tax dollars, and anticipates potential lawsuits, we implore them to drop the current plan and revisit it with extensive community engagement. The impressive turnout during the neighborhood walk, organized on short notice, clearly demonstrates the strong community opposition. With proper community engagement, there is a genuine opportunity to find a mutually beneficial solution.

We urge you to take immediate action by writing to the Mayor's office, expressing your concerns and urging a reconsideration of the conversion of the property at 1174-1178 Folsom Street. Your voice matters, and collectively, we can make a substantial impact. We will be sharing a sample email to be sent to her office.