The San Francisco Housing Authority Commission convened on January 31, 2025, under the leadership of President Joaquin Torres. The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming the presence of all commissioners, including Lee Raylindo, Lewana Kim, and Mary Anne Pikes.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to acknowledging the Ramaytush Ohlone community, the original inhabitants of the San Francisco Peninsula. The commission recognized their ancestral land and affirmed their rights as the first peoples, emphasizing the importance of respecting their heritage and responsibilities as caretakers of the land.
Following this acknowledgment, the meeting opened for general public comments. President Torres clarified that this segment was not intended for debate but rather for individuals to express their concerns or bring matters to the commission's attention. Public comments were welcomed both from attendees in the room and those participating online.
One notable speaker, identified as Ace, shared historical insights regarding the housing authority's meetings being held at City Hall, attributing this change to his previous lobbying efforts. Ace also highlighted the importance of recording these meetings for public access, noting their availability on SFgovTV. He expressed concerns about ongoing issues in the Western Addition, mentioning construction projects and the involvement of developers in the community, and indicated a desire for more information on these developments.
The meeting continued with additional public comments, including contributions from Howard Hill, who also sought to address community issues. The session underscored the commission's commitment to engaging with the public and addressing housing-related concerns in San Francisco.
In conclusion, the meeting reflected a structured approach to governance, with a focus on acknowledging indigenous rights and facilitating community dialogue. The commission's next steps will likely involve addressing the concerns raised during public comments and continuing to foster transparency in their operations.