San Francisco expands certificate of preference program for displaced families

In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, officials discussed significant updates to the Certificate of Preference (COP) program, aimed at assisting families displaced by redevelopment activities. This program, which dates back to the late 1960s, has undergone crucial changes to expand eligibility and improve outreach efforts, reflecting the city's ongoing commitment to addressing historical injustices related to housing displacement.

The meeting highlighted the legislative efforts led by former Assembly Member David Chu, which now allow descendants of displaced individuals to inherit the certificate, thereby broadening the scope of those eligible for housing preferences. This change is particularly important as it acknowledges the long-term impact of displacement on families and aims to facilitate their return to San Francisco.

Interim Director Jim Morales of the Office of Community Investment and Infrastructure (OCII) provided a historical overview of the COP program, emphasizing its role as a displacement remedy. He noted that approximately 5,800 households have been identified as displaced since the program's inception, with around 1,800 having successfully utilized their certificates for housing opportunities. However, the number of active certificate holders has dwindled to about 900, as many original claimants have passed away over the decades.

Director Eric Shaw from the Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development (MOCD) elaborated on the current implementation of the COP program, which prioritizes displaced households in city-sponsored housing lotteries. He emphasized the importance of meeting income eligibility criteria and the ongoing efforts to streamline the application process through the DAHLIA housing portal, which has significantly improved the intake and processing of applications.

Both directors acknowledged the challenges posed by the limited availability of affordable housing units in San Francisco. Currently, there are about 6,400 existing units and an additional 8,000 in the pipeline, but the demand continues to outpace supply. To address this, the MOCD is enhancing outreach strategies to ensure that eligible families are informed about available housing opportunities.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further research and outreach efforts to identify and assist descendants of displaced individuals, ensuring that the expanded COP program effectively serves its intended purpose. As San Francisco grapples with its housing crisis, these discussions underscore the city's dedication to rectifying past wrongs and fostering a more inclusive community for all residents.