Supervisor Ronan introduces amendments to San Francisco's inclusionary housing regulations

San Francisco County is taking decisive action to strengthen its affordable housing policies, addressing critical loopholes in the planning code that have hindered the delivery of much-needed housing. During a recent government meeting, Supervisor Ronan introduced legislation aimed at closing gaps in the Inclusionary Housing Program, which requires developers to contribute to affordable housing when building new market-rate units.

The proposed amendments come in response to troubling instances where developers have shifted the tenure of affordable units from ownership to rental, undermining the original commitments made during project approvals. This shift has left affordable units vacant while market-rate units are rented out, exacerbating the housing crisis in a city where many residents struggle to find affordable living options.

Ronan highlighted specific cases, including a project at 2100 Mission Street, where a developer sought to change the approved ownership units to rentals, leading to significant delays and unmet obligations. The legislation aims to establish clear procedures for any changes in tenure or inclusionary options post-approval, ensuring that affordable units are delivered in a timely manner and match the tenure of the principal project.

Key provisions of the legislation include requiring public hearings for changes that result in fewer affordable units, setting strict timelines for the marketing and occupancy of below-market-rate (BMR) units, and prohibiting occupancy certificates until marketing plans for BMRs are approved. These measures are designed to enhance transparency and accountability in the development process.

The Planning Commission has unanimously recommended approval of the ordinance, emphasizing the need for consistent and enforceable regulations to protect affordable housing commitments. As the city grapples with its housing challenges, this legislation represents a significant step toward ensuring that affordable housing obligations are met and that residents have access to the homes they need.