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Commission voices support to renew Code Enforcement Outreach Program serving tenants and landlords
Summary
The Building Inspection Commission voted a voice of support to recommit funding and renew contracts for the Code Enforcement Outreach Program (CIOP), citing the program's role in mediating landlord‑tenant disputes and avoiding litigation.
The San Francisco Building Inspection Commission on Oct. 17 voted to voice the commission's support for the Code Enforcement Outreach Program (CIOP), which has provided tenant and landlord mediation, multilingual outreach and referrals since 1996.
Jamie Santonato, who oversees the CIOP contracts, presented photographs and case examples to illustrate housing code violations identified through the outreach network. Santonato said the program works in seven languages, resolves complaints that would otherwise require lengthy enforcement or litigation, and partners with housing inspectors and community groups.
Public speakers representing the San Francisco Apartment Association and tenant organizations described CIOP as a "lighter side" of enforcement that encourages voluntary resolution and prevents escalation to formal enforcement. Sarah Short of the Housing Rights Committee told commissioners that the program allows advocates to work in community languages and to refer serious matters to DBI for inspection and enforcement when needed.
Commissioners discussed contract oversight and practice; some said they preferred to leave contracting details to staff while offering the commission's ongoing support for the program concept. A motion voicing support for continuing CIOP services was moved, seconded and carried by voice vote.
Next steps: staff will proceed with recommitting program contracts as appropriate and will return to the commission with any contract specifics if needed.
