San Francisco enacts escalating vacancy tax to combat housing shortages

During the December 16, 2024, meeting of the Oakland City Mayor's Commission on Persons with Disabilities (MCPD), discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges and potential solutions regarding housing vacancies in the city. A significant point of conversation was the recent implementation of a vacancy tax in San Francisco, which imposes increasing fines on property owners for each unit left empty over time. This model has sparked interest among Oakland officials, particularly in exploring a similar approach to address local housing shortages.

Commissioner Brearty noted that while Oakland has a vacancy tax, it currently applies on a per-building basis rather than per unit. This means that property owners with partially occupied buildings may not face penalties if some units are filled. There is a growing interest among council members to revisit the idea of a more comprehensive vacancy tax that could be put to a public vote. However, previous attempts to place such measures on the ballot have not succeeded.

The discussion underscored the complexities of housing policy in Oakland, with commissioners acknowledging both the support and opposition surrounding the vacancy tax initiative. The MCPD's engagement in these discussions reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that housing policies consider the needs of all community members, including those with disabilities.

As the city navigates these housing challenges, the potential for a revised vacancy tax could play a crucial role in increasing housing availability and affordability. The MCPD's ongoing dialogue about these issues emphasizes the importance of inclusive policymaking that addresses the diverse needs of Oakland's residents.