Keith Freedman for Mayor of San Francisco

For A Thriving San Francisco

The need for more housing in San Francisco is undeniable. However, the definition of “affordable” housing and the scale of this need remain contentious topics in the midst of being the 10th most expensive city globally.

The Examiner’s comprehensive overview of our city’s affordable housing stock sheds light on the complexities of this issue. At its core, the staggering cost of housing in San Francisco is driven by the fundamental economic principle of supply and demand. Despite the current challenges we face, San Francisco’s allure as an incredible city remains intact.

The key to addressing the housing crisis and mitigating high prices and rents lies in bridging the gap between supply and demand. This necessitates streamlining the process of building new housing, a domain largely within the city’s control. While all mayoral candidates have pledged to prioritize housing construction, the delay in substantial progress raises questions about their effectiveness or true commitment to this cause.

We must make building housing in San Francisco faster, easier, and more cost-effective. Like many of our city’s challenges, there is no singular solution; a holistic approach is imperative. Solving this complex issue requires addressing multiple facets simultaneously, a task that demands a level of strategic thinking and problem-solving akin to managing a small business.

As a small business owner myself, I bring a unique perspective to the mayoral race. Running a business in San Francisco means navigating myriad challenges concurrently, not tackling one issue at a time. This multifaceted approach is precisely what we need from our next Mayor—a leader who can tackle the housing crisis comprehensively and decisively.

Together, let’s pave the way for a thriving San Francisco, where affordable housing is accessible to all and our city continues to flourish as a beacon of opportunity and innovation.