Board debates charter amendment to create Housing and Development Commission; votes to continue measure to July 26

A charter amendment that would create a Housing and Development Commission to oversee the Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) and the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) drew a mix of support and concern at a special meeting of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

The measure, a third draft of a charter amendment described by staff as implementing motion M16-91 (approved July 15), would require the new commission to review proposed development agreements, the disposition of certain surplus city property, and changes to inclusionary housing rules before the board considers them. Supervisor Peskin, the measure—s sponsor, opened the hearing and said the commission would create "a single point where discussions will happen about affordable housing, economic development, development agreements, and proposals for the disposition of surplus properties."

Why it matters: Backers said the commission would increase public transparency and provide a standing venue for high-level policy discussions about how housing, economic development and social services fit together. Critics warned the additional layer could delay projects, complicate federal and state-required processes and diminish the mayor—s executive authority over department leadership.

Public supporters and concerns

Fernando Marti of the Council of Community Housing Organizations urged supervisors to place the…