San Francisco County officials are racing against the clock to secure a pro housing designation from the state, a critical step for accessing vital funding for affordable housing and transportation projects. During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the urgency of passing an ordinance that aligns local policies with state requirements before the March 19 deadline.

The proposed ordinance aims to streamline the process for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), which are essential for increasing housing availability. City leaders emphasized the importance of this designation, as it could significantly impact the city’s ability to compete for state grants, especially in light of proposed budget cuts to affordable housing funding.

Public comments highlighted the stakes involved. Advocates from the Housing Action Coalition and SPUR urged the board to act swiftly, noting that every point in the pro housing designation process matters. They stressed that the funding tied to this designation is crucial for projects that could deliver hundreds of affordable housing units and substantial transportation improvements.

However, concerns were raised about the potential trade-offs involved in conforming to state law, particularly regarding tenant protections. Some speakers warned that the push for a pro housing designation might compromise local priorities, including the preservation of affordable housing and the protection of existing tenants.

As the city navigates these complex issues, the urgency to finalize the ordinance remains paramount. The board plans to revisit the matter next week, with hopes of aligning the timeline for planning commission reviews to ensure that San Francisco does not miss out on critical funding opportunities. The outcome of these discussions will have lasting implications for the city’s housing landscape and its ability to address the ongoing housing crisis.