Mayor Lee Launches Congestion Management Strategy in San Francisco

BOMA San Francisco Members:

Mayor Ed Lee has launched the City’s Congestion Management Strategy to improve traffic flow and safety, especially in the South of Market neighborhood where construction and growth remain the highest in the City.

Mayor Lee’s Congestion Management Strategy outlines additional efforts the City could undertake, beyond traditional approaches such as the Interdepartmental Staff Committee on Traffic and Transportation (ISCOTT). These additional efforts include smarter traffic enforcement, better construction permitting, and coordinated efforts through the City’s new Traffic Management Center (TMC).

San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) and San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) will coordinate rush hour traffic enforcement and traffic management. From 3-6 p.m. on weekdays, SFPD will deploy officers at the City’s most congested intersections and SFMTA will deploy Parking Control Officers (PCOs) at intersections adjacent to those staffed by police officers. SFPD’s Operations Center and SFMTA’s TMC will monitor traffic in real time and work together to adjust deployments if congestion develops elsewhere.

Parking Control Officers will also focus on preventing gridlock by enforcing 'blocking the box' violations, which is a strategy that has proved successful based on a Summer 2014 pilot that reduced blocking the box by 82 percent at key intersections near the Bay Bridge and Ballpark. SFMTA will enhance double parking enforcement, which causes congestion and makes it difficult to drive, walk, and bike safely on City streets, target PCO deployment on streets with high-ridership Muni buses and heavy traffic flow, and double SFMTA engineering and field staff to ensure that commercial districts have enough loading zones, and to install them quickly where they are lacking. SFMTA will also double staffing in construction inspection to ensure that developers and construction companies comply with the terms of their permits, and do not block any more lanes, bus stops, or parking spaces than they are permitted to.

Over the next two years, additional efforts will focus on data and technology, planning and enforcement. SFMTA will assemble currently available real-time data from traffic cameras and public information cutting-edge public data feeds to establish a monitoring function in its new TMC. By the end of next year, SFMTA will connect the City’s traffic signals to the TMC to allow engineers to diagnose signal problems in real time, fix signals quickly, and manage traffic peaks during rush hours and special events. SFMTA will use its real-time Twitter feed to provide and receive traffic info, just as it currently provides Muni info.

SFMTA will also use new data on traffic flow from Commuter Shuttle Pilot participants, Muni buses, regulated vehicles, and some private sector partners to identify bottlenecks in the traffic and Muni network, and to make better decisions about construction permit stipulations and targeting traffic enforcement resources. SFMTA will make street closure information (e.g., from ISCOTT and Special Traffic Permits) available on datasf.org and work with developers to incorporate that information into mapping and navigation products.

SFMTA and other City agencies will review City’s restrictions on street construction including construction loading during rush hour can reduce traffic impacts without slowing construction. Greater use of variable message signs in advance of and during large street construction projects, and use of detour signs during construction, and greater restrictions on use of public rights-of-way for construction equipment staging can all further reduce the impact of construction on city streets.

SFPD will increase enforcement by increasing Traffic Company staffing, making more solo officers available for traffic control, and SFMTA will pursue legal authority to implement automated (camera-based) safety enforcement, directed at blocking the box violations.

UPDATE - Mandatory Seismic Retrofit Program for Wood Framed Buildings - Soft Story Financing Program

UPDATE - December 23, 2014

The Earthquake Safety Implementation Program (ESIP) is pleased to announce the next phase of the Soft Story Financing Program. 

Working with industry leaders the ESIP team have completed the development of a program that will allow property owners required to upgrade their multifamily soft story buildings to fully finance their upgrades. AllianceNRG has partnered with the City to provide turnkey access to all of the following financing services:

• 100% Financing of the upgrade
• Long Term financing -Up to 30 years- No balloon payment 
• Finances only the improvement - no need to refinance the entire mortgage
• Competitive interest rates
• If the property is sold the assessment may transfer to the new owner 
• If accepted and documents are signed, the program can pay for engineering design work upon approval by city. There is no need for the engineering and design costs to come out of your pocket, which could run up to $20,000 

If you have any questions about this program or would like to apply, please feel free to contact AllianceNRG at (855) 431-4400. Building off the 99% compliance rate with the screening requirement, this is a critical step forward in our effort to improve San Francisco's earthquake resiliency. 

-------------------

UPDATE - October 8, 2014

BOMA San Francisco Members:

If you have buildings in your portfolio that meet the Mandatory Seismic Retrofit Program for Wood Framed Buildings, please be sure that you have complied with the initial screening requirement that was due to the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection on September 15th.  Details in this article in the San Francisco Chronicle, here.

-------------------

UPDATE - June 20, 2014

The San Francisco Department of Building Inspection will be hosting a Q&A session on the City's Soft Story Program on August 11, 2014 at the Koret Auditorium, San Francisco Public Library from 3:00-5:00 p.m.

The purpose of the gathering is to assist those property owners that qualify for the Mandatory Seismic Retrofit Program for Wood Framed buildings (details in our previous blog post, below) in completing their screening forms prior to the September 15, 2014 compliance deadline. Please pass along this information to your friends and colleagues who may be affected or who may be interested in attending to learn more about the program and its requirements.

RSVP by clicking here.

For more information on the Soft Story Program visit www.sfdbi.org/softstory.

--------------------

Original Post - April 18, 2013

UPDATE - April 18, 2013

The Mandatory Seismic Retrofit Program for Wood Framed (soft story) Buildings legislation was signed by Mayor Ed Lee this morning - the anniversary of the 1906 earthquake.  We thank the City and County of San Francisco for its continued leadership in earthquake resiliency.

--------------------

UPDATE - March 18, 2013

BOMA supports the Mandatory Seismic Retrofit Program for Wood Framed Buildings, or Soft Story Building Legislation, that is scheduled to be heard at the San Francisco Board of Supervisors' Land Use and Economic Development Committee.  This measure derives from CAPSS, Community Action Plan for Seismic Safety, an effort that BOMA San Francisco Codes and Regulations Committee members have been involved with since its inception.

This legislation, which includes sensible phase-in provisions for owners of residential/mixed-use properties, is a step in the right direction for the City and County of San Francisco to improve housing resiliency in the event of a major earthquake in the region.

--------------------

UPDATE - December 19, 2012

If you are interested in attending a CAPSS meeting, the next gathering will be on Monday, January 28, 2013 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at San Francisco City Hall, Room 34.  

BOMA San Francisco Codes and Regulations Committee member Will Grogan will be in attendance and will provide a report on the CAPSS meeting discussion at the February 27, 2013 Codes meeting.

--------------------

Original Post - November 26, 2012 

The CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation Program continues to work toward a more resilient San Francisco. Here is a very brief update on their activities:

• Patrick Otellini appointed Director of Earthquake Safety
• Soft-story building program final review
• Private School Earthquake Safety Working Group progress
• Upcoming CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation Program Public Meeting

A Message from Laurence Kornfield

Dear Friends,

Big news! The Mayor has appointed Patrick Otellini to be San Francisco’s Director of Earthquake Safety. We are fortunate to have such a qualified and enthusiastic new Director. Patrick comes to the CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation Program from the private sector where has spent over a decade working across the spectrum of San Francisco’s building community – he is intimately familiar with the City’s permit approval and inspection processes, building owner and user concerns, the pragmatic construction issues of costs, scheduling, and financing. He has been closely engaged in the CAPSS earthquake safety work, including serving as a committee chairperson on the 2010 Mayor’s Soft Story Task Force. Patrick, who will be working directly under City Administrator Naomi Kelly, brings passion, vitality and commitment to the position of Director of Earthquake Safety. I am thrilled that we are fortunate enough to get Patrick Otellini in this role.

I will continue to work on the CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation Program (ESIP) both on our ongoing programs and as an advisor to Patrick and his staff, as we embark on our challenging 30-year implementation program. I am extraordinarily grateful to have Patrick join me in the leadership of our crucial earthquake safety programs. Patrick’s commitment, the overwhelming support of the City leadership, and your continued involvement mean that we will succeed in making San Francisco a safer and more resilient city.

With much thanks,

Laurence Kornfield

Click here to download the Mayor’s Office press release.

Soft-Story Building Final Review

All of the pieces are now in place to move forward with a program to dramatically improve the safety of many of San Francisco’s most hazardous buildings. Over the next few months the Earthquake Safety Working Group will work to determine the best ways in which to implement the proposed regulations for earthquake upgrade of vulnerable soft-story buildings, focusing on buildings having five or more dwelling units and three or more stories (ESIP Task A.3.a). Much of the groundwork for these regulations was laid under the 2010 Mayor’s Soft Story Task Force. The CAPSS team is looking forward to a collaborative, consensus-based effort to make San Francisco’s housing stock more resilient and safer. More details on this in the near future.

Private Schools Earthquake Safety

A Private Schools Earthquake Safety Working Group, under volunteer chairperson Laura Samant, is studying the technical and policy issues related to the earthquake risk of private schools in San Francisco, and will propose ideas for how the City may best address private school safety (ESIP Task A.6.f). The group is exploring challenging issues such as community expectation for school safety, evaluation of earthquake risk, and potential building improvement opportunities. A report on the findings of this Working Group is to be delivered to the City Administrator and the Mayor in late 2013. If you would like to receive information about the activities of the Working Group by email or to participate in the Working Group, please contact Micah Hilt, micah.hilt@sfgov.org.

The next meeting will be in City Hall, Room 370, on December 6, 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Click here to download our notice to the private schools.

Upcoming CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation Program Public Meeting

December 10, 11:00 a.m. until 1: 00 p.m. at City Hall, Room 370.

Please join the CAPSS team for an update on their many CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation programs. This will be an opportunity to ask questions and to learn how you can get further involved in their activities.

Building Rating Systems

The CAPSS recommendations for improving San Francisco’s earthquake resilience were founded on an ability to evaluate or rate building earthquake performance and to effectively communicate about building performance with the public (ESIP Task A.6.h). Building rating systems for buildings of all types, from older homes to new high rises, are now being developed. The CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation Program staff is working with the groups preparing these rating systems to assure that proposed rating systems will meet San Francisco’s needs. Expect to see one or more rating system proposals within the next few months.

Update to the Community Safety Element Adopted

The Board of Supervisors, following the lead of the Planning Commission, unanimously adopted an update to the Community Safety Element of San Francisco’s General Plan that incorporates many earthquake resilience goals, including those outlined in the CAPSS work. Thank much to Planning Department and Department of Emergency Management staff for their help in preparing this document.

Shelter-in-Place and Neighborhood Support Center update

The Shelter-in-Place and the related Neighborhood Support Center concepts focus on keeping San Franciscans in their homes, in their neighborhoods, and informed and supported after an earthquake. This will empower communities, reduce the demand for emergency housing, and facilitate a more rapid recovery. The Department of Emergency Management, SF SAFE, the Neighborhood Empowerment Network, SPUR, CAPSS/Earthquake Safety Implementation Program and many other groups and agencies have worked together to prepare demonstration programs, work which is actively continuing (ESIP Task A.4.b). More details on this coming soon!

A few of the other CAPSS/ Earthquake Safety Implementation Program programs underway:

• Demonstration of one- and two-family home earthquake improvements (ESIP Task A.6.b)
• Focus on earthquake improvements for economically-disadvantaged San Franciscans (ESIP Task A.6.e)
• Provide information and assistance about renter’s insurance and other insurance (ESIP Task A.1.b)

Thank you for your continued support of CAPSS and our Earthquake Safety Implementation Program.

Laurence Kornfield
Special Assistant to the City Administrator
laurence@kornfield.org

Patrick Otellini
Director of Earthquake Safety
patrick.otellini@sfgov.org

Micah Hilt
Earthquake Safety Implementation Program
micah.hilt@sfgov.org

 Click to follow the CAPSS Program on Facebook!

UPDATE - Amendments to the San Francisco Lobbyist Ordinance

BOMA San Francisco Members:

UPDATE - December 22, 2014

The Ethics Commission staff has prepared answers to the top ten questions regarding the City’s registration and reporting requirements for permit consultants, which take effect January 1, 2015. These answers are intended to provide guidance pending the adoption of formal regulations. Please note that this guidance may be subject to change in the future. Interested parties will be notified of any such changes, which will also be posted on the Ethics Commission’s website. To ensure that you will be notified of any changes to this guidance, please contact Pat Peterson at (415) 252-3100 or patricia.petersen@sfgov.org.

You are also encouraged to check the Commission’s website regularly until formal regulations are adopted.

 

-------------------

Original Post - July 17, 2014

Please be aware that recent amendments to the City’s Lobbyist Ordinance passed by the Board of Supervisors will take effect on July 26, 2014.  Some of the key changes to the Lobbyist Ordinance are summarized below. Please note that this summary is for general informational purposes only, and that you should refer to the new law (available here) or contact the Ethics Commission for more complete guidance if you feel that you may qualify as a lobbyist.

Lobbyist Qualification Threshold

The new rules change the lobbyist qualification threshold, which is now based entirely on the number of compensated lobbying contacts an individual has with a City officer. More specifically, an individual must register and report as a lobbyist if he or she makes:

• one or more compensated lobbying contacts in a calendar month with a City officer on behalf of a client, or 
• five or more compensated lobbying contacts in a calendar month with City officers on behalf of the individual’s employer (unless the individual owns 20 percent or more of the employing entity). 

Covered City Officials

The new rules expand the list of those City officials with whom compensated lobbying contacts will trigger lobbyist registration and reporting. These new officials include members of the following boards and commissions: 

• First Five Commission 
• Health Authority Board 
• Housing Authority Commission 
• Law Library Board of Trustees 
• Local Agency Formation Commission 
• Parking Authority
• Relocation Appeals Board 
• Workforce Investment San Francisco Board 
• Successor Agency to the former Redevelopment Agency of the City and County of San Francisco 
• Oversight Board of the Successor Agency 
• Successor Agency Commission 

Also included is any person appointed as a department head by any City board or commission.

Exemptions From Lobbyist Registration

Under the new rules, lobbyist registration and reporting requirements are not triggered by communications by an officer or employee of a 501(c)(3) non-profit nonprofit organization (or any organization it fiscally sponsors), when the officer or employee is communicating on behalf of that organization. Also exempt are such communications by officers and employees of 501(c)(4) non-profit organizations that file either an IRS Form 990-N or an IRS Form 990-EZ.

The new rules also narrow the current exemption for communications in connection with bidding on a City contract, negotiating the terms of a City contract, or administering a City contract. The exemption for communications by a “party or prospective party” to a contract no longer applies to a City contractor’s outside consultants or independent contractors.

Developer Disclosures

The new rules require developers of major City real estate projects to file reports with the Ethics Commission disclosing donations of $5,000 or more to nonprofit entities that have lobbied the City regarding the developers’ projects. The filing requirement applies to real estate development projects costing over $1,000,000 and is triggered by the certification of an environmental impact review or the adoption of a final environmental determination under the California Environmental Quality Act.

Permit Consultants (aka Permit Expediters)
To bring greater transparency to the City’s permitting process, the new rules create registration and reporting requirements for “permit expediters.” These new requirements are similar to, but not exactly the same as, those for lobbyists and will take effect on January 1, 2015.

* * * * * * * * * *

Ethics Commission staff is in the process of drafting implementing regulations as well as updating its Lobbyist Manual and its online training, and will provide more detailed guidance regarding the recent amendments in the near future. In the meantime, you may contact the Ethics Commission if you have any questions at (415) 252-3100 or ethics.commission@sfgov.org.

BOMA San Francisco Addresses Office of the San Francisco Assessor-Recorder Letter Requesting Annual Report of Tenants, Rent Roll, and Leases

BOMA San Francisco Members:

A number of BOMA members have reached out to the association regarding a letter from the San Francisco Assessor-Recorder initially sent in early November that asked for information from property owners due 21 days after the date of the notice.  Of concern to BOMA was the request in the missive that a property owners' roster of tenants, a copy of their rent roll as of 1/1/2012, 1/1/2013, and 1/1/2014, and copies of leases or lease abstracts for leases be provided to the Assessors' office. 

Some of this information is difficult to come by and also time consuming for our members to compile. As such, BOMA is appreciative that the Assessor has agreed to these updated terms:

• Roster of building owners tenants (including contact information): Due by December 31, 2014
• Rent roll for building owners tenants (years 2012/2013/2014): Due by January 15, 2015
• Tenant leases
• The Assessor has requested this information, but if it is not provided there will NOT be penalties applied. 

The Assessor has confirmed that all information provided to the office is confidential and will not be open to public inspection.

The relevant statute provides that the taxpayer needs to make the records available for examination – not produce or e-mail copies. Copies only need to be produced if either the taxpayer or assessor seeks to challenge an assessment.  Individual property owners may wish to review the applicable provisions of the Revenue and Taxation Code and consult with their respective legal counsel as to the property owner’s duty to make documents available for examination.

BART Improvements at Powell and Civic Center Stations - Your Feedback is Requested

BART is seeking your input on the future of our escalators and entrances at Powell and Civic Center stations. 

The transit agency is considering changes to make your BART experience more comfortable. The organization knows that signage, escalator performance, and lighting are issues. They are also considering safety, sustainability, usability, appearance, and the overall customer experience at the station entrances.

Please let them know which improvements are important to you by coming by our in-station events or filling out a survey online at www.bart.gov/sfentrances.

In Station Events

Powell Station

Tuesday, Dec 16, 2014

During commute times:

7-10 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.

Civic Center Station

Thursday, Dec 18, 2014

During commute times:

7-10 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.

BOMA International Advocacy Update - BOMA Scores Win on Leasehold Depreciation and Senate Adjourns without Action on TRIA

BOMA San Francisco Members:

Last night, the U.S. Senate approved a package of tax extenders, including a one-year, retroactive extension of the 15-year depreciation period for tenant improvements, which had previously expired at the end of 2013.  This means that building owners can deduct expenses for tenant improvements made in calendar year 2014 over 15 years instead of 39—a significant victory for commercial real estate!

Unfortunately, the Senate failed to extend the federal terrorism insurance backstop program, known as TRIA, which is set to expire on December 31.  Earlier this year, the Senate passed a seven-year extension with overwhelming bipartisan support. Debate on the issue dragged on in the House, and finally, in the Lame-Duck session, the House passed a different version that would have extended the program for six years; the bill then had to go back to the Senate for a final vote.  Unfortunately, it was not a clean bill and contained other provisions that were objectionable to many in the Senate.  TRIA has been a priority issue for BOMA and our real estate partners, and we will work to ensure that this is on the top of the congressional agenda when the 114th Session convenes on January 6.

Urgent BOMA International Advocacy Update - Tell Your United States Senators to Pass TRIA Today!

BOMA San Francisco Members:

BOMA International needs your help in urging the United States Senate to pass S.2244, the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act (TRIA) of 2014, which extends the federal terrorism insurance backstop program for six (6) years. Yesterday, the House did its part, passing S.2244 by a vote of 417-7. Without Senate action, the program will expire at the end of 2014, leaving the commercial real estate industry vulnerable to devastating losses and jeopardizing investment and other opportunities for growth. The commercial real estate market simply cannot afford the uncertainty an expiration of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program would create.

Please take action to urge your U.S. Senators to vote "Yes" on S.2244. Without affordable and available terrorism insurance, commercial real estate financing will be thrown into flux, premium rates will increase dramatically and many commercial properties throughout the country will lose significant value. Contact your Senators today!

Proposed San Francsico Tax Collector Regulations - Notice of Tax Collector Hearing on December 10th

BOMA San Francisco Members:

As you know, BOMA members have been active in representing your interests with regard  to the implementation of San Francisco's Gross Receipts Tax and Business Registration Fees Ordinance.  More information can be found here.  

Please review the proposed San Francisco Tax Collector Regulations, below, and, if these requirements affect your business, attend this upcoming public hearing to discuss your concerns:

Wednesday, December 10, 2014 - 2:00pm

1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl

City Hall Room 408

San Francisco, CA 94102 

Pursuant to authority granted under Section 6.16-1 of the San Francisco Business and Tax Regulations Code BTRC the San Francisco Tax Collector invites the public to comment on the following proposed regulations:

2014-1

2014-2

2014-3

The hearing will be on December 10th, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. in room 408 of City Hall. The proposed regulations are above and available at www.sfgov.org/tax. You may comment at the hearing; written comments may also be submitted at the hearing. You will be able to address the Tax Collector during the public comments period.

Questions?  Please contact: Greg Kato, Gross Receipts Tax Director: Greg.Kato@sfgov.org

BOMA California Advocacy Update - 2014 Legislative Year-End Wrap-Up

BOMA San Francisco Members:

BOMA California is a federation of all eight metropolitan BOMA local associations in California and serves as the collective membership’s legislative and regulatory advocate.  The mission of the Building Owners and Managers Association of California (BOMA California) is to preserve and promote the interests of California commercial real estate professionals through legislative and regulatory advocacy. 

Through our members and staff, BOMA San Francisco is an active participant with BOMA California.  If you have an interest in statewide legislative and regulatory proposals that can impact our industry, please contact kenc@boma.com and johnb@boma.com.

BOMA California is fortunate to have Matthew Hargrove as our advocate in Sacramento.  Matthew has kindly put together a 2014 Year-End Wrap-Up of BOMA California's efforts.  It's been a good year for the industry in California from a legislative perspective - all thanks to BOMA California!

Click here to review the report.  

BOMA San Francisco's Energy & Environment Committee Members Meet with SF Environment Director Deborah Raphael

BOMA San Francisco Members,

BOMA San Francisco's Energy & Environment Committee recently met with the San Francisco Department of Environment Director, Deborah Raphael.  Deborah was recently appointed by Mayor Ed Lee.

As Director of SF Environment, Raphael will work with the City’s diverse residents and businesses to take an active role in protecting and enhancing their homes, businesses, and the urban environment. SF Environment develops innovative policies and practical environmental programs that promote social equity, protect human health, and lead the way toward a sustainable future. 

Please click here to review Deborah's presentation to the committee.  

About Deborah Raphael

Governor Edmund G. Brown appointed Raphael as the Director of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) in May 2011. In her tenure with DTSC, Raphael was responsible for the protection of human health and the environment from the impacts of toxic chemicals and hazardous waste and led a department of over 1,000 employees in 9 offices with a $200 million annual budget. Raphael led the successful programmatic and financial transformation of DTSC and focused on innovation by reviving California’s efforts to protect consumers from toxic chemicals in everyday products through the Safer Consumer Products initiative.

Raphael received a Bachelor’s degree in Biology/Plant Ecology from the University of California at Berkeley and a Master’s degree in Physiological Plant Ecology from the University of California at Los Angeles.

After college, Raphael worked at the Exploratorium in San Francisco for five years, where she was an exhibit designer in life sciences. She joined the City of Santa Monica as an environmental program manager before she joined SF Environment to provide leadership on groundbreaking programs that reduced the use of toxic chemicals and improved green building standards.

Monique Moyer, Executive Director of the Port of San Francisco, Awarded as BOMA's Public Official of the Year

On occasion, when there are deserving candidates, BOMA San Francisco selects someone in government to be recognized as our Public Official of the Year. We’ve presented this award to elected officials, and sometimes we have recognized City Department heads or administrative personnel.  Recommendations for award recipients typically emanate through BOMA’s Governmental Affairs Policy Advisory Committee, or via our Political Action Committee.

L to R: Ken Cleaveland, Monique Moyer and Blake Peterson

This year we have chosen to recognize, as BOMA’s 2014 Public Official of the Year, the Executive Director of the Port of San Francisco, Monique Moyer. With this award, we acknowledge Monique for her strong support of the public/private partnerships she has used to enhance and improve the city’s Port property. In her 10 years of leadership as the Port’s Executive Director, Monique Moyer has overseen major projects like the Giants ball park, the rehabilitation of the Ferry Building, the opening of the new, world-class cruise ship terminal, and the rebirth of the Exploratorium on the waterfront.

Blake Peterson, BOMA San Francisco's 2015 President, and Marc Intermaggio, BOMA San Francisco's Executive Vice President presented the Public Official of the Year award to Monique - well deserved!

About Monique Moyer

Appointed by former Mayor Gavin Newsom in 2004, Monique serves at the pleasure of current Mayor Edwin Lee and a 5-member Port Commission. Ms. Moyer is the second woman to serve as Executive Director in the Port’s 151-year history and one of only 3 female port directors nationwide (out of 85). Ms. Moyer is the longest-serving Port Director since the Port transferred to the City & County of San Francisco in 1969.

The Port of San Francisco is a self-revenue generating agency of the City & County of San Francisco and manages a broad range of commercial, maritime and public-access facilities along the city’s waterfront. The Port of San Francisco is 7½ miles and is home to a fishing fleet, cruise ships, Fisherman’s Wharf, the SF Giants’ ballpark and many other entrepreneurial entities and water spots. Ms. Moyer manages a staff of 235 and a budget of $70 million.

Please click here to view pictures of the event on our Facebook page.  

San Francisco's Higher Incentives for Energy Efficiency Upgrades

BOMA San Francisco Members:

Our partners at the San Francisco Department of the Environment have helped over 6,000 commercial and multifamily properties save energy by offering incentives and assistance for energy efficiency projects through the SF Energy Watch program. 

The program - a partnership between the City of San Francisco and PG and E -  has increased the incentive levels for LED lamps and most refrigeration measures. Upgrading the interior and exterior lighting of your building can yield significant utility savings. Another option is to optimize your large HVAC fans and VAV system performance with Variable Frequency Drives, which can cut energy waste, minimize noise, and reduce the wear of your unit. 

The  SF Environment staff can help you identify your energy saving opportunities and estimate your qualifying SF Energy Watch incentive. Get started today by contacting SF Energy Watch at (415) 355-3769 or at sfenergywatch@sfenvironment.org. For more information, visit SFEnergyWatch.org.

UPDATE - BOMA San Francisco Janitorial & Security Contractors Now Impacted By San Francisco Formula Retail Employer Requirement Ordinances

UPDATE - November 25, 2014

BOMA San Francisco Janitorial and Security Members,

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously passed both measures at their meeting on November 18th and it's expected that the members of the Board will do the same today as they consider these items for a second and final vote.

Even so, BOMA San Francisco members and staff will be working with the Board of Supervisors and our business community partners in the next month to address our members' concerns as detailed below. More information on our efforts will be reported to you.

Questions or concerns?   Please email johnb@boma.com and kenc@boma.com.

-------------------

Original Post - November 17, 2014

Legislation is being fast-tracked at the San Francisco Board of Supervisors that, until this afternoon, didn't impact your industries (janitorial/security contractors), now requires your immediate attention. Please contact the San Francisco Board of Supervisors – details below.

There are two ordinances for you to review:

• Supervisor Eric Mar
• Police Code - Hours and Retention Protections for Formula Retail Employees
• Abstract
• Ordinance amending the Police Code to regulate the operation of Formula Retail Establishments, including requiring employers to offer additional hours of work, when available, to current part-time employees; and requiring successor employers to retain employees for 90 days upon a change in control of the business.
• Supervisor David Chiu
• Police Code - Fair Scheduling and Treatment of Formula Retail Employees
• Abstract
• Ordinance amending the Police Code to require Formula Retail Establishments to provide employees with two weeks notice of work schedules, notice of changes to work schedules, and compensation for schedule changes made on less than seven days notice and unused on-call shifts; and to provide part-time employees with the same starting rate of hourly pay, access to time off, and eligibility for promotions, as provided to full-time employees.

Why?

Both measures respectively address employee management and retention at Formula Retail (chain store) establishments and, until recently, did not affect the janitorial/security industries. Amendments that were inserted - without consultation to BOMA or representatives of your industries - were approved today at a special meeting of the Budget and Finance Committee and the Board of Supervisors will consider both measures tomorrow at their meeting at City Hall.

What’s the Bottom Line?

Both pieces of legislation now apply to janitorial and security contractors who contract with formula retailers, even if those contractors do not qualify as formula retailers.

What Should I Do?

Please contact (call and email) the following San Francisco Board of Supervisors and tell them to send both measures back to the Budget and Finance Committee for further review and discussion with employers directly impacted by the legislation:

Mark Farrell
Katy Tang
Scott Weiner
London Breed
Malia Cohen

-------------------

Special thanks to Dee Dee Workman, Vice President of Public Policy with the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, who alerted us to this change. She’s worked tirelessly on this issue and we are appreciative of her efforts.

BOMA San Francisco's Government Affairs Policy Advisory Committee Update - Meetings with City Leaders

L To R: Cindy Wu and Tom Maguire 

BOMA San Francisco Members:

BOMA's Government Affairs Committee members have been meeting with public officials recently to represent your interests.  Here is a brief update of the last two meetings with special guest speakers representing the San Francisco Planning Commission and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA).

Cindy Wu, President of the San Francisco Planning Commission

Commissioner Wu was appointed in 2012 by Board of Supervisors Chair, David Chiu. BOMA's recent meeting with Wu was a unique opportunity for BOMA members to get to know Commissioner Wu and ask questions about San Francisco land use policies and much more.  Indeed, the open dialogue allowed for Commissioner Wu to understand BOMA and the commercial real estate industry and an understanding that BOMA is available as a resource for the Commission regarding industry data.

BOMA thanks Commissioner Wu for her time.  

Key points discussed:

• Central SoMa Eco District
• Proposition M
• Formula Retail
• Transportation and development
• Population growth
• Housing supply
• Discretionary Review reform

About the Planning Commission

The Planning Commission consists of seven members - appointed by the Mayor and the President of the Board of Supervisors - who help plan for growth and development in San Francisco. Members of the Planning Commission provide an invaluable service to the city: they advise the Mayor, Board of Supervisors and City departments on San Francisco's long-range goals, policies and programs on a broad array of issues related to land use, transportation, and current planning. Additionally, the Commission has specific responsibility for the stewardship and maintenance of San Francisco's General Plan.

-------------------

Tom Maguire, SFMTA Director of Sustainable Streets

More information about Mr. Maguire and his recent move from New York City’s Department of Transportation can be found here and here. Thank you to GAPAC member Richard Rabbitt, with Farella Braun + Martel LLP for suggesting to invite Mr. Maguire to speak to the group.

Key points discussed:

• Vision Zero
• SFMTA management is unparalleled in the United States due to the number of modes of transportation
• SFPark data and feedback
• Congestion pricing in New York City and San Francisco
• Handicap placard abuse and mitigation
• Bicycle lanes
• Signal installation - possibilities and delays 

BOMA thanks Mr. Maguire for his time and our members look forward to working with him and his team in the near term.

Click here for Mr. Maguire's full presentation to the members of the GAPAC.

UPDATE - Legislation to Study/Allow San Francisco to Provide Electric Service to Private Developments

BOMA San Francisco Members:

UPDATE - November 25, 2014

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors Land Use Committee passed this legislation with a recommendation for the full Board to approve it.

This is unsatisfactory to the members of BOMA, who had suggested amendments to the legislation with the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) that would have allowed the City and County of San Francisco to provide electricity to select new private developments by mutual agreement.

Since the amendments were not included, the legislation would leave the private development and building owner community with no choice: If the SFPUC decides it is advantageous for it to provide power to the property, it will do so, regardless of whether it is of mutual benefit to the private property owner.  This policy may also affect existing buildings that undergo any significant (over 10,000 square feet) of rehabilitation or renovation 'where such service would be consistent with the PUC’s resources, budget, business plans, and priorities.'

BOMA strongly objects to having its members coerced into contracts for electric service by the SFPUC without it being a mutually agreed upon arrangement. The history of our members’ relationship with the SFPUC has been one of collaboration and cooperation. This legislation potentially sets up the private property community for a confrontation with the City over the issue of who is going to supply the property power. It’s a confrontation that’s totally unnecessary.

In the late 1990s, BOMA San Francisco had a power pool, when direct access was allowed under the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) rules. We negotiated a deal to provide power to our membership after interviewing and dissecting offers from 17 different power providers. We would still be doing so, had it not been for the energy crisis, the collapse of Enron, and the CPUC closing the door on future direct access contracts. When given the opportunity, BOMA’s private property owners will always opt for the ability to negotiate the best deal for their properties and their tenants who ultimately pay for much of the energy costs.

BOMA urges the Board to reconsider this recommendation from Land Use Committee and to send it back for further study.

If you have any feedback, please send it to johnb@boma.com and kenc@boma.com.

--------------------

UPDATE - September 2, 2014

Please note that BOMA San Francisco members met with representatives of the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission to discuss BOMA's concerns regarding this legislation as detailed below.  They are considering our suggested amendments are working with Supervisor Scott Wiener's office now.  More information will delivered to you as necessary.

If you have any feedback, please send it to johnb@boma.com and kenc@boma.com.

--------------------

Original Post - August 4, 2014

Supervisor Scott Wiener has introduced legislation that would amend the San Francisco Administrative Code to evaluate the feasibility of the City providing electric power to private developments and projects.

Click here to read the ordinance, and here for the executive summary.

The following are a few details/concerns regarding the ordinance, in its current draft, that have been discussed with members of BOMA San Francisco's Government Affairs Policy Advisory Committee (GAPAC):

• The City is allowed to sell power (pg. 1/lines 17-19);
• The measure is attempting to study, and eventually allow San Francisco Public Utilities Commission power to be delivered to new City developments. (pg. 1/lines 23-25; pg. 2 lines 1-6);
• The measure is also attempting to study and eventually allow SFPUC power to be delivered to other private projects over 10k sq/ft - this is ambiguously defined (Existing buildings?  New developments? Tenant improvements?) and needs to be clarified.  This could be an issue for BOMA members. (pg. 2/lines 6-12);
• Why is this happening?  The SFPUC can use the additional revenue from serving electricity to new customers to address deferred maintenance of infrastructure projects.  (pg. 2/lines 21-23);
• Requirement to Study Feasibility (pg. 3).  What does 'certain other private projects seeking City approvals' mean (pg. 3/lines 5-6)?  Also, (lines 7-10) who pays for the study?   

If you have any feedback, please send it to johnb@boma.com and kenc@boma.com.  A meeting with Supervisor Wiener and our members has taken place recently; the next discussion will be with San Francisco Public Utilities Commission officials. 

IMMEDIATE CALL TO ACTION: BOMA San Francisco Janitorial & Security Contractors Now Impacted By San Francisco Formula Retail Employer Requirement Ordinances

BOMA San Francisco Janitorial and Security Members,

Legislation is being fast-tracked at the San Francisco Board of Supervisors that, until this afternoon, didn't impact your industries (janitorial/security contractors), now requires your immediate attention. Please contact the San Francisco Board of Supervisors – details below.

There are two ordinances for you to review:

• Supervisor Eric Mar
• Police Code - Hours and Retention Protections for Formula Retail Employees
• Abstract
• Ordinance amending the Police Code to regulate the operation of Formula Retail Establishments, including requiring employers to offer additional hours of work, when available, to current part-time employees; and requiring successor employers to retain employees for 90 days upon a change in control of the business.
• Supervisor David Chiu
• Police Code - Fair Scheduling and Treatment of Formula Retail Employees
• Abstract
• Ordinance amending the Police Code to require Formula Retail Establishments to provide employees with two weeks notice of work schedules, notice of changes to work schedules, and compensation for schedule changes made on less than seven days notice and unused on-call shifts; and to provide part-time employees with the same starting rate of hourly pay, access to time off, and eligibility for promotions, as provided to full-time employees.

Why?

Both measures respectively address employee management and retention at Formula Retail (chain store) establishments and, until recently, did not affect the janitorial/security industries. Amendments that were inserted - without consultation to BOMA or representatives of your industries - were approved today at a special meeting of the Budget and Finance Committee and the Board of Supervisors will consider both measures tomorrow at their meeting at City Hall.

What’s the Bottom Line?

Both pieces of legislation now apply to janitorial and security contractors who contract with formula retailers, even if those contractors do not qualify as formula retailers.

What Should I Do?

Please contact (call and email) the following San Francisco Board of Supervisors and tell them to send both measures back to the Budget and Finance Committee for further review and discussion with employers directly impacted by the legislation:

Mark Farrell
Katy Tang
Scott Weiner
London Breed
Malia Cohen

-------------------

Special thanks to Dee Dee Workman, Vice President of Public Policy with the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, who alerted us to this change. She’s worked tirelessly on this issue and we are appreciative of her efforts.

BOMA International Advocacy Update - Significant Issues at Stake in Lame-Duck Congress

The U.S. Congress returned to Washington on November 12th  following a decisive mid-term election that saw a shift of control on Capitol Hill as Republicans gained a majority in the Senate and further strengthened their hold on the House for the upcoming 114th Congress. While the newly elected legislators will be sworn in this January, the current Congress must now turn to a significant amount of unfinished business in what is expected to be a fairly short lame-duck session to conclude the 113th Congress. 

Up for consideration will be the already-expired 15-year leasehold depreciation provision, which is included in a larger package of business tax extenders.  Also on the agenda is the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA), which is set to expire at the end of 2014 if Congress fails to act on legislation to extend the federal backstop program. BOMA is continuing to work with its partners in the Coalition to Insure Against Terrorism (CIAT) to urge Congress to pass a multi-year reauthorization of the program immediately. The Senate already passed a seven-year extension of the program by an overwhelming 93-4 vote back in July.

We urge you to visit BOMA International’s Legislative Action Center today and write Congress to request renewal of both these important policies.

BOMA San Francisco's Nearly Perfect November 2014 Election Results

The BOMA San Francisco Political Action Committee (BOMA-SF-PAC) campaigns for candidates and issues that promote economic vitality and the health of the commercial real estate industry - and against those that would harm it. Click here to view their list of accomplishments.

With regard to the recent November 4th election – the BOMASF-PAC slate outcome was nearly perfect! Thank you for voting BOMA, your source for sensible political recommendations that benefit all businesses and residents in San Francisco.

BOMA-SF-PAC relies on contributions for funding. This is truly an investment in your future and the future of our industry. Contact kenc@boma.com for more information.

--------------------

BOMA San Francisco's Political Action Committee's Slate Card

November 4, 2014 General Election

Candidates Endorsed

David Chiu for California State Assembly (San Francisco) – Absentee votes are still being counted

----------

Marc Levine for re-election to the California State Assembly (Marin/Sonoma)
Kevin Mullin for re-election to the California State Assembly (San Mateo)
Mark Farrell for re-election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors – District 2
Katy Tang for re-election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors – District 4
Scott Wiener for re-election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors – District 8
Malia Cohen for re-election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors – District 10
Nick Josefowitz for BART Board of Directors - District 8

San Francisco Propositions on the Ballot

A - San Francisco Transportation and Road Improvement Bond - SUPPORT
G - Additional Transfer Tax on Residential Property Sold Within 5 Years of Purchase - OPPOSE
H - Requiring Certain Golden Gate Park Athletic Fields To Be Kept As Grass With No Artificial Lighting – OPPOSE
I - Renovation of Playgrounds, Walking Trails, and Athletic Fields – SUPPORT
K - Mayor Lee/Board of Supervisors Affordable Housing Policy Statement – SUPPORT

----------

L - Balanced Transportation Policy Statement – SUPPORT – The only proposition that the PAC endorsed and didn’t pass.

Register for BOMA San Francisco's 2014 Annual Codes Seminar

BOMA San Francisco Members:

BOMA San Francisco’s annual codes update will feature presentations on a wide range of important topics -- especially for commercial property managers - including an overview of DBI’s 5th floor over-the-counter plan review process, practical examples of the recent Title 24 Energy Code changes that came into effect July 1st 2014, an update on SFFD annual high-rise inspections and advice for BOMA members. This is an opportunity for BOMA members to meet and interact with important city officials from the Building and Fire Departments responsible for enforcing these codes, and hearing from our own design and construction professionals on the most recent changes to our local codes and permitting processes and the most effective ways to comply. It’s BOMA San Francisco’s most important regulatory update of the year, so don’t miss out!

REGISTER

Presenters

Gordon L’Estrange, LIONAKIS
Skip Soskin, Huntsman Architectural Group
Jackie Crivinar, BCCI Builders
Dimitri Contoyannis, Noresco
Kimberly Huangfu, Buchalter Nemer
Dennis Latta, Cushman & Wakefield, The Pyramid Center
David Sellards, CBF Electrical & Tel/Data Contractors
Bradley Onstad, CBF Electrical & Tel/Data Contractors
Gary Clifton, SFDBI Electrical
James Zhan, SFDBI Mechanical
Richard Halloran, SFDBI Technical Services
Mark Walls, SFDBI Plan Review Services
Lieutenant Lisa Moy, SFFD
Ken Cleaveland, Vice President, Public Policy, BOMA SF

Major Sponsor

Program Sponsors

#OrangeOctober - San Francisco Giants World Series Homecoming Parade on October 31, 2014 Starting at 12 Noon

BOMA San Francisco Members,

We keep having to post this information every two years and we're O.K. with that!

Please note that your 2014 World Series Champion San Francisco Giants will be celebrated with a parade down Market Street tomorrow, Friday, October 31st, starting at 12 noon.  The parade will begin at Market and Steuart streets and continue down Market Street to Civic Center Plaza.

BOMA San Francisco's Emergency Preparedness Seminar on October 21, 2014

L to R: BOMA San Francisco's Emergency Preparedness Committee Chair Ryan Rusler, SFFD Chief Joanne Hayes-White, BOMA San Francisco President Sarah MacIntyre, SFPD Chief Greg Suhr, and BOMA San Francisco's Emergency Preparedness Committee Vice-Chair, Stacia Keisner

Please click here for more pictures on our Facebook page.

BOMA San Francisco Members and Partners:

BOMA San Francisco's Emergency Preparedness Committee members held a well-attended Emergency Preparedness Seminar on October 21, 2014 at the Port Commission Hearing Room at the Ferry Building.   This information-packed emergency preparedness seminar was produced for property and facilities managers, tenants, building security staff, and public sector emergency responders.

Thank you to those members who attended and a special thanks to sponsors and event speakers (listed below) including San Francisco Police Chief Greg Suhr (follow him on Twitter!) and San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White.

• Attendees learned lessons from BOMA San Francisco’s August 2014 Police/Fire Drill at 100 First Street: 1) incident management and 2) communication with relevant stakeholders, i.e., the 100 First Street Kilroy Property Management Team and participating tenant, security team members, engineering staff, and the San Francisco Police and Fire Departments; 
• They also acquired strategies for working with San Francisco’s emergency responders; 
• And, they gained resources to help them be better educated and prepared for such emergencies. 

The program was presented as part of BOMA’s Emergency Preparedness Committee’s commitment to educate members on the best emergency preparedness strategies and will show how simulated emergencies can strengthen your entire building teams’ response to a critical incident.

Speakers

Ryan Rusler, Har-Bro Restoration and Chair of BOMA's Emergency Preparedness Committee
Stacia Keisner, CBRE, Vice-Chair of BOMA San Francisco’s Emergency Preparedness Committee
Eileen Kong, Senior Asset Manager, Kilroy Realty, 100 First Street
Deborah Cho, Property Manager, Kilroy Realty, 100 First Street
Makrizia Fabio, Assistant Property Manager, Kilroy Realty, 100 First Street
Sean Bennett, Chief Engineer, Able Engineering Services, 100 First Street
Caleb Leichliter, Security Manager, Universal Protection Service, 100 First Street
Kelly D'Innocenti, Workplace Services Administrator at Box, 100 First Street Tenant
Ann Mannix, Captain, San Francisco Police Department, Tactical Unit
Tony Dumont, Captain, San Francisco Fire Department, Paramedic Unit
Jackson Talbot, Director of Security, Cushman & Wakefield, Transamerica Pyramid Center
Jeff Ellis, Security Manager, Universal Protection Service, Transamerica Pyramid Center
Shea Baldez, Program Manager, SF CARD
Misa Gidding-Chatfield, Property Coordinator at PM Realty Group, 388 Market Street
Sean O' Mara, Private Sector Liaison, San Francisco Department of Emergency Management 

The BOMA San Francisco Emergency Preparedness Committee's 2014 Annual Emergency Preparedness Seminar was generously sponsored by (in alphabetical order):