Commissioners hear $3M venue fund update as city eyes yellow tier loosening

San Francisco's Entertainment Commission heard updates May 4 on federal grants and a local venue recovery fund as the city prepares to move into the state’s "yellow tier" for COVID-19 restrictions.

Executive Director Dr. Weiland told commissioners the city is awaiting the health department's final order but expects less restrictive rules for entertainment activity, including outdoor settings where face coverings are likely to be no longer required if groups maintain distance. "We're waiting on the final rules to be published from the health department," she said, adding that staff will educate permit holders and inspectors on any changes.

Ben from the Office of Economic and Workforce Development reviewed recently launched federal programs, including the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, both operating on a first-come, first-served basis. "The money will likely run out before every business owner can have access to it," he said, urging eligible businesses to apply and noting application assistance through city partners at oewd.org/covid19.

Weiland also highlighted a $3,000,000 local Music & Entertainment Venue Recovery Fund established in March 2021; the fund provides grants of at least $10,000 to hardest-hit venues. She said the local application portal was closing the day after the hearing. "This is a big deal," Weiland said, and asked commissioners to share outreach posts to boost applications.

Ben noted several state bills moving through committees that could affect nightlife operations, naming SB 314 (temporary catering authorization), SB 389 (permanent to-go sales), and SB 793 (a proposed music-venue liquor license and intermittent open-container zones), and explained local relief grants that close May 7. "There are a number of state nightlife and entertainment bills"); he added that local partners are helping with applications.

Next steps: staff will post guidance and updated permit information on the commission’s site and continue targeted outreach to venues and permit holders as the health order is finalized.