San Francisco Housing Authority Elects Commissioner Shoemaker as New President

In a recent meeting of the Housing Authority of the City and County of San Francisco, key discussions highlighted both leadership transitions and pressing tenant issues. The meeting commenced with an acknowledgment of the Ramaytush Ohlone community, recognizing their ancestral ties to the land and affirming their rights as the original inhabitants of the San Francisco Peninsula. This gesture underscores the authority's commitment to honoring indigenous heritage as part of its operational ethos.

The meeting also marked the annual election of the board's president and vice president. Commissioner Doug Schumacher was nominated and accepted the presidency, with a roll call vote confirming his position. Vice President Leroy Lindo was re-elected, reflecting continuity in leadership as the board navigates ongoing challenges in housing management.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments, where tenant representatives voiced concerns about housing stability. Michael Zorns, president of the Citywide Council Senior Disabled Tenant Association, raised alarms regarding back rent notices affecting residents at 1880 Pine Street. He described a troubling situation where tenants were receiving incorrect rent calculations and were being pressured into payment plans that many could not afford. Zorns emphasized the potential for eviction proceedings if these issues remain unresolved, highlighting the precarious position of vulnerable tenants in the current housing landscape.

The meeting concluded with a call for further public engagement, inviting residents to communicate their concerns via email, thus reinforcing the authority's commitment to transparency and community involvement. As the board moves forward, the discussions from this meeting will likely shape its approach to addressing both leadership and tenant issues in the coming months.