The San Francisco County government meeting on July 4, 2025, highlighted critical issues surrounding affordable housing development in the city. Key speakers addressed the significant challenges faced by developers, particularly regarding delays and financial losses linked to power issues.
Elizabeth MacGregor, an affordable housing developer, shared her experience with the Capuso at Upper Yard development, noting a loss of $2 million due to ongoing delays. She emphasized the urgent need for housing solutions for residents who are eagerly awaiting these developments.
Kevin Kitching from Mission Housing echoed these concerns, pointing out that affordable developers are facing unfunded mandates that complicate their efforts. He criticized the idea of a revenue-sharing model, stating that it is unrealistic given the already thin margins on affordable housing projects. Kitching stressed the importance of predictability in the marketplace, which has been disrupted by changing regulations and relationships with utility providers.
The discussions underscored the pressing need for stable policies and support for affordable housing initiatives in San Francisco, as developers navigate complex challenges that directly impact the community's access to housing. The meeting concluded without further public comments, leaving the future of affordable housing development in a precarious position.