Housing advocates highlight 61000 empty homes amid San Francisco's homelessness crisis

In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the city's housing crisis, highlighting the stark contrast between rising homelessness and the increasing number of vacant homes. The discussions underscored a growing frustration among residents about the affordability of housing and the moral implications of allowing thousands of units to remain empty while many struggle to find shelter.

Daisy Camay, a leader from the organization Fe en Accion, passionately addressed the board, questioning why so many seniors are forced to work past retirement age just to afford rent. She pointed out that over 20,000 housing units are currently vacant, calling for a moral reckoning among city leaders to address the needs of the community rather than catering to a select few. Her comments reflect a broader sentiment that housing has become a commodity rather than a basic human right.

Jim Lichtty, a resident of District 5, echoed these sentiments, expressing his dismay at the transformation of San Francisco into a city that only the wealthy can afford. He emphasized the importance of Proposition M as a potential step toward restoring the city’s inclusivity and accessibility for all residents.

Matt Alexander, a member of the Board of Education, highlighted the alarming statistic that approximately 2,500 students in the district are homeless, with some schools reporting that one in three students lacks stable housing. He argued that the issue is not merely a housing crisis but a moral crisis, as the city has the resources to provide homes yet chooses to prioritize investment over community welfare.

Francisco de Costa, a long-time advocate, pointed out that the number of vacant homes has surged to over 61,000, questioning the rationale behind plans to build additional housing when so many units remain unoccupied. He criticized the focus on market-rate housing, arguing that it neglects the needs of those earning less than $80,000 annually.

Kristen Evans, a small business owner, shared her struggles with retaining staff due to the high cost of living, attributing it largely to exorbitant rents. She noted that many vacant properties are evident in her neighborhood, further complicating the local economy and community stability.

The meeting concluded with a call for policy interventions to address the vacancy crisis, including potential taxation on empty homes to incentivize landlords to rent out their properties. The board acknowledged the urgency of the situation, recognizing that the current vacancy rates—now the highest among major U.S. cities—must be part of the broader conversation about housing solutions.

As San Francisco grapples with these pressing issues, the community's voices reflect a deep desire for change, urging city leaders to prioritize housing as a fundamental right and to take decisive action to ensure that all residents have access to safe and affordable homes. The board's commitment to addressing these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of housing in the city.