Supervisor Peskin proposes pause for community input on 711 Post Street shelter plan

San Francisco County is taking significant steps to address homelessness in the city, as highlighted in a recent government meeting. Supervisor Aaron Peskin announced plans to pause the approval of a new shelter at 711 Post Street for one month to allow for more community engagement and input. This decision comes amid concerns from local residents and business owners about the impact of additional shelters in the area, which already hosts several facilities for the unhoused.

During the meeting, Peskin emphasized the importance of geographic equity in housing and shelter distribution, noting that his district has seen a concentration of such facilities. He expressed frustration over the lack of meaningful community involvement in the planning process for the new shelter, which is intended to provide semi-congregate housing for up to 250 individuals. The proposed shelter would be operated by Urban Alchemy, with a budget of approximately $18.5 million through June 2024.

Emily Cohen, Deputy Director of the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, defended the project, highlighting the urgent need for shelter beds, especially during the ongoing pandemic. She noted that the facility would offer a unique configuration with private bathrooms and community spaces, aiming to provide a safer alternative for those currently living on the streets.

However, community members voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about safety, crime, and the adequacy of the outreach process. Many residents reported feeling blindsided by the rapid development of the shelter, with some claiming they had not received adequate notification about the project. A petition opposing the shelter has reportedly garnered over 1,700 signatures from local residents.

The meeting underscored the tension between the urgent need for shelter solutions and the necessity of thorough community engagement. As the city grapples with its homelessness crisis, the decision to pause the project reflects a commitment to ensuring that local voices are heard and that the implementation of such facilities is done thoughtfully and collaboratively. The next steps will involve forming a working group to facilitate dialogue between the city, community stakeholders, and the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for February 2, 2025.