In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, significant steps were taken towards enhancing community services through a new commercial ground lease. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, focused on a resolution that authorizes the Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) to enter into a long-term lease agreement for city-owned properties located at 681 Florida Street and 683 Florida Street.

The proposed lease, spanning 75 years with an option for a 24-year extension, is set to facilitate the development of commercial spaces intended for community-serving uses. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support local nonprofits and enhance public benefit in the area. The commercial spaces will be home to Carnival, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing an artist and maker space, which aligns with the city’s commitment to fostering community engagement and creativity.

Omar Masri, a project manager from MOHCD, highlighted that the project builds on previous approvals from 2020, which aimed to develop a mixed-use residential and commercial space. The residential component, consisting of 130 affordable housing units, was completed last year and is fully occupied. The new commercial lease will be set at a nominal rate of one dollar per year, adhering to the city’s guidelines for community-serving activities.

The meeting also addressed the financial aspects of the project, noting that a previously approved $35 million city loan will be amended to separate residential and commercial components, ensuring that funding aligns with the intended uses of the properties.

Despite the absence of public comments during the meeting, the committee members expressed strong support for the resolution, which was passed unanimously. This decision marks a significant advancement in San Francisco's efforts to provide affordable housing and community resources, reflecting the city’s ongoing commitment to addressing local needs through strategic partnerships and development initiatives.

As the project moves forward, the city anticipates that these commercial spaces will not only serve immediate community needs but also contribute to the long-term vitality of the neighborhood.