San Francisco's budget and appropriations committee has made significant strides in shaping the fiscal budget for the 2023-2025 period, with a proposed budget of $713.3 million for the upcoming year. This marks a one-time increase of $23 million compared to the current budget of $672 million, primarily driven by adjustments in non-general fund revenue.

The committee's recommendations, which are expected to be adopted by the full board later this month, focus heavily on housing and homelessness services. Over 40% of the budget is allocated to maintaining housing and providing subsidies for individuals already housed with city funds. Additional funding will support shelter services, crisis intervention, and homelessness prevention initiatives.

Key changes include a reduction of over $2 million in community-based organization (CBO) contracting funding, which will not result in a loss of services, and a one-time reduction of $438,000 for outreach contracts, supplemented by a state encampment resolution grant. The budget also preserves funding for the transgender homelessness initiative, ensuring its full support.

In a move to enhance service delivery, the board approved new positions within the department, including a cross-program initiative manager and housing program analysts. Furthermore, a 4.5% cost of doing business increase for health and homelessness general fund contracts was also included, aimed at supporting service providers.

The budget also introduces several one-time funding initiatives, such as $1 million for quality of life improvements at permanent supportive housing sites and $200,000 for food security for transitional age youth. Additionally, a new program called Urban Rest and Sleep Grama will receive $350,000 to support individuals in the Tenderloin area.

Looking ahead, the budget reflects a commitment to addressing homelessness and housing challenges in San Francisco, with a focus on strategic goals over the next five years. The board's collaborative efforts with the mayor's office and community stakeholders aim to ensure that the city continues to make progress in providing essential services to its most vulnerable populations. As the budget process moves forward, the community can expect ongoing discussions about how to effectively allocate resources to meet the needs of families and youth in the city.