The City of San Francisco held a critical meeting on July 4, 2025, focusing on the ongoing challenges and developments at Laguna Honda, a skilled nursing facility. The agenda primarily revolved around the facility's recertification process and the implications of potential resident discharges.

The meeting began with a presentation by Mr. Zonghe, who reported that the first two 90-day monitoring surveys indicated "much progress." However, concerns were raised regarding the absence of the third form 25 67 from the health survey component, which is crucial for verifying the reported progress. The delay in receiving this form, now overdue by two to three weeks, has prompted calls for the Local Health Authority (LHA) to demand its submission from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

Public comments highlighted the anxiety surrounding the potential resumption of resident discharges, particularly in light of a recent lawsuit alleging wrongful deaths linked to previous discharges. Advocates, including Dr. Palmer and resident Norman Daigleman, expressed strong opposition to evictions, labeling them as unethical and potentially life-threatening for residents. They urged the management and city officials to prioritize resident safety and well-being over compliance with federal mandates.

Commissioners engaged in discussions about the emotional toll on residents and staff due to the uncertainty surrounding transfers. The leadership at Laguna Honda emphasized their commitment to maintaining staff morale and ensuring that residents receive the best possible care during this tumultuous period. They reported that all 500 milestones outlined in the settlement agreement with CMS had been met, a significant achievement in the path toward recertification.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city officials to support Laguna Honda's efforts and to advocate for the residents' rights and safety. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the need for immediate action to prevent further evictions, with calls for intervention from Governor Newsom and other state officials. The next steps will involve continued monitoring of the situation and further discussions on the facility's future and the well-being of its residents.