San Francisco adopts Japantown Cultural Heritage District's sustainability strategy report

The San Francisco County government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on the adoption of the Japantown Cultural Heritage District's Cultural History, Housing, and Economic Sustainability Strategy Report, commonly referred to as the CHESS report. The meeting began with the introduction of Kira Geithman, the associate director of policy, who represented the mayor's office of housing and community development in the absence of Sheila Nickopoulos.

Grace June Lee, the Cultural Districts Program Manager, provided an overview of the cultural districts program, which was established by the Board of Supervisors in 2018. The program aims to preserve and promote cultural communities in San Francisco, particularly those that have faced historical discrimination and displacement. Lee explained that a cultural district is defined as a geographic area rich in cultural heritage, with a concentration of cultural assets and a significant population of community members.

The meeting highlighted the collaborative nature of the cultural districts program, emphasizing the partnership between the community and city officials. Community input is crucial in identifying needs and strategies for neighborhood stabilization. The CHESS report, coauthored by community members and city officials, serves as a strategic plan and cultural legacy document for the Japantown community.

Susie Kagami, the manager of the Japantown Cultural District, expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and city officials. She noted that the CHESS vision plan is the culmination of 13 years of community engagement, representing the collective voice of the Japantown community.

The meeting underscored the importance of cultural heritage and community involvement in shaping policies that affect local neighborhoods. The adoption of the CHESS report marks a significant step in promoting the sustainability and cultural identity of Japantown, with plans for future implementation and community engagement to follow.