Committee forwards six CBD annual reports to Board after OEWD overview of benchmarks

The Government Audit & Oversight Committee on Feb. 1 reviewed annual reports for six community benefit districts and business improvement districts and voted to forward Items 4 through 9 to the full Board with positive recommendations.

Jackie Hazelwood of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development outlined OEWD’s benchmarking process and legal authorities (including the Property and Business Improvement District Law of 1994 and applicable San Francisco codes). OEWD noted Ocean Avenue missed two benchmarks earlier in the hearing; the office then walked through each remaining district’s results and program highlights.

SoMa West described rapid service build‑out during its first full year of operation, including a 7‑day cleaning and maintenance operation, outreach and a micro‑neighborhood staffing model. Fisherman’s Wharf reported meeting all benchmarks and described a successful digital marketing push that increased web users and page views; it also confirmed surveillance technology compliance with OEWD guidance. Lower Polk met all benchmarks but acknowledged late reporting caused by delayed vendor billing; it is using a consultant to bolster board recruitment and reporting. Union Square summarized rebranding, marketing and public‑realm efforts focused on clean and safe services. The Tourism Improvement District and Moscone Expansion District reported pandemic‑era revenue declines and described Moscone incentive funds used as rent offsets for event attraction. The Downtown partnership presented its first annual report after launching operations in 2020 and highlighted public realm projects including Let's Glow SF.

After public comment, Supervisor Matt Dorsey moved to send Items 4–9 to the full Board with positive recommendations; the clerk recorded two ayes (Chair Preston and Member Dorsey) and the motion passed. The committee adjourned.