Supervisors introduce Green Bank resolution; public commenters call for municipal financing

Supervisor Fielder introduced a resolution calling on the mayor, treasurer and other departments to explore funding opportunities to establish a San Francisco Green Bank, citing prior Board work on public banking and polling showing substantial voter support. Fielder said a green bank would provide financing for renewable energy infrastructure, affordable housing and local small businesses and described polling results (approximately two‑thirds support for a public bank and roughly 70% support for a green bank among likely voters).

During public comment, several speakers from the San Francisco Public Bank Coalition and allied groups urged the board to move forward. Rick Gerling, Misha Steyer and others said a green bank would help the city finance climate and housing priorities directly, keep capital in the local economy, and protect San Francisco from federal funding shortfalls. Speakers cited prior working‑group work and feasibility studies and urged the board to act quickly to develop the institution.

Supervisor Fielder framed the measure as building on earlier unanimous support for a public bank and as a way to address financing gaps for climate and affordable housing programs. The board did not vote on the resolution at this meeting; the item was introduced for future committee consideration.